as in harsh
formal + disapproving
unnecessarily strict or severe
The editorial criticizes the draconian measures being taken to control the spread of the disease. draconian punishments
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Recent Examples of draconian
But the work sparked controversy when some lawmakers — along with alcohol industry trade groups — claimed the scientists were biased against alcohol and would reach a conclusion with draconian implications.
—
Theresa Gaffney,
STAT,
9 June 2026
Satrapi, who was nine years old when Pahlavi was toppled and Ayatollah Khomeini came to power in 1979, recounted her experiences growing up under the latter’s draconian government in the graphic novel Persepolis.
—
Melanie Goodfellow,
Deadline,
4 June 2026
Maybe not stuck in an urban jam, dodging potholes or crawling amid draconian speed limits – but out there on the open road, taking sunny corners in a nice car?
—
New Atlas,
29 May 2026
The federal Fifth Circuit appeals court agreed with Louisiana and imposed draconian new restrictions on Friday.
—
Dave Goldiner,
New York Daily News,
4 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for draconian
Theresa Gaffney,
STAT,
9 June 2026
Satrapi, who was nine years old when Pahlavi was toppled and Ayatollah Khomeini came to power in 1979, recounted her experiences growing up under the latter’s draconian government in the graphic novel Persepolis.
—
Melanie Goodfellow,
Deadline,
4 June 2026
Maybe not stuck in an urban jam, dodging potholes or crawling amid draconian speed limits – but out there on the open road, taking sunny corners in a nice car?
—
New Atlas,
29 May 2026
The federal Fifth Circuit appeals court agreed with Louisiana and imposed draconian new restrictions on Friday.
—
Dave Goldiner,
New York Daily News,
4 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for draconian
Recent Examples of Synonyms for draconian
Adjective
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White settlers and frontier pioneers built vast, fenceless cattle stations, battling harsh environments and disease, embracing a hard-living culture that exists to this day.
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Dish Soap Using harsh chemicals on the outside of your toilet bowl and fixtures is not recommended, according to Meagher.
Adjective
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And Addy, perhaps the most brutal American Girl story, is enslaved.
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In January, the government suppressed huge nationwide protests in a brutal crackdown that left thousands dead.
Adjective
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Natural selection is usually ruthless about weeding out traits with no function.
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Supergirl builds to a final showdown with Krem of the Yellow Hills, the ruthless Brigands leader who murdered Ruthye’s family and poisoned Krypto early in the film.
Adjective
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Other booths included photo opportunities dressed in traditional Colonial garb, hands-on historical exhibits and interactive displays that offered visitors a break from the oppressive heat.
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Due to the oppressive heat, the Phillies have adjusted operations through Thursday's game.
Adjective
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The heat has become so unbearable in Japan that weather officials in April announced a new term for days when maximum temperatures exceed 104 degrees — kokushobi, meaning harsh or cruel heat, according to the Japan Times.
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For thousands of Venezuelans, however, the lack of definitive answers has become one of the tragedy’s cruelest consequences.
Cite this Entry
“Draconian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/draconian. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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