opp
re
ssive
Comparative
more oppressive
Superlative
most oppressive
1
having an unfair or harsh control over others, often involving cruelty or severe restrictions
- The oppressive government regime suppressed freedom of speech.
- The oppressive rules and regulations stifled creativity in the workplace.
- The oppressive landlord imposed unreasonable rules and harsh penalties on tenants.
- The oppressive atmosphere in the classroom stifled students' creativity and enthusiasm.
- The oppressive heat made it difficult for people to go about their daily activities.
Synonyms:
2
weighing heavily on the senses or spirit
3
(of weather) uncomfortably hot, humid, or heavy, making it difficult to feel at ease
- The oppressive heat made it hard to stay outdoors for long.
- They canceled the hike due to the oppressive weather conditions.
- The air felt thick and oppressive as the storm approached.
- The day was so oppressive that people stayed indoors with air conditioning.
- Oppressive humidity clung to everything, making even light clothes feel sticky.