draconian
|dra-co-ni-an|
🇺🇸
/drəˈkoʊniən/
🇬🇧
/drəˈkəʊniən/
excessively severe
Etymology
'draconian' originates from Greek, specifically the name 'Drakon' (Δράκων), an Athenian lawmaker; the name 'Drakon' meant 'dragon' or 'serpent' and became associated with harsh laws.
'draconian' evolved via Late Latin/Medieval Latin (e.g. 'dracōniānus') and entered English with the sense 'of or relating to Draco' before broadening to mean 'extremely severe'.
Initially it referred specifically to laws or practices of Draco; over time it evolved into the broader modern meaning 'excessively severe' applied to laws, rules, measures, or treatment.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
noun form 'draconianism' refers to the practice or advocacy of extremely harsh measures (transformation of the base form).
Critics accused the administration of draconianism in its handling of dissent.
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Adjective 1
excessively harsh or severe, especially in connection with laws, rules, or punishments.
The government introduced draconian measures to curb the protests.
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Last updated: 2025/10/06 08:53