Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

petty tyrants

Noun

/ˈpɛti ˈtaɪrənts/

Definition

Petty tyrants are individuals who exercise authority in a despotic or control-freak manner, often over a small group or community, displaying a tendency to use their power for personal advantage or to mistreat others.

Examples

In the small office, the manager acted like a petty tyrant, micromanaging every task and decision.
The school principal became known as a petty tyrant, enforcing ridiculous rules that frustrated both students and teachers.
Even a minor position can harbor petty tyrants who make life difficult for those under their control.

Meaning

The term ‘petty tyrants’ refers to people in positions of power who misuse their authority in trivial or insignificant contexts, leading to abuse or unreasonable demands on those around them.