oppressed
|op-pressed|
B2
/əˈprɛst/
(oppress)
exert control harshly
Etymology
Etymology Information
'oppressed' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'oppressus,' where 'ob-' meant 'against' and 'premere' meant 'to press.'
Historical Evolution
'oppressus' transformed into the Old French word 'opprimer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'oppress' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to press against or crush,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'subjected to harsh treatment.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
past tense or past participle form of 'oppress'.
The regime oppressed its citizens for decades.
Adjective 1
subjected to harsh and authoritarian treatment.
The oppressed people fought for their freedom.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39