Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

oppressive

[uh-pres-iv] / əˈprɛs ɪv /




Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There was Kent Brantly, 27, a family physician who, owing to the grueling hours and oppressive African heat, had lost 30 pounds even before he succumbed to hemorrhagic fevers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

We can and should hope for a better outcome for Iranians than for Iraqis: freedom from an oppressive regime, minimal death and destruction, a smooth democratic transition, a functional democracy, a peaceful and prosperous society.

From Slate • Mar. 11, 2026

It’s clear that George has married above himself, but his shortcomings come off as risible rather than oppressive, and it’s hard not to feel protective of him as he’s being pummeled to a pulp.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 25, 2026

In the build up to the 1966 coup, Nkrumah had faced criticism that he was becoming increasingly oppressive.

From BBC • Feb. 24, 2026

Nevertheless there was a sense of openness, a feel of a gentle breeze moving lightly about, that kept the darkness from being oppressive.

From "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle




Vocabulary lists containing oppressive