TYRANNICIDE Meaning and
Definition
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Tyrannicide is a noun that refers to the act of killing or assassination of a tyrant or a despotic ruler. Derived from the combination of the Greek words "tyrannos" (meaning tyrant) and "ekdikein" (meaning to exact justice), tyrannicide is often regarded as an extreme form of protest against oppressive regimes or rulers who consistently abuse their power.
In history, tyrannicide has been seen as a means to restore justice and free societies from political tyrannies. The term can be traced back to ancient Greece, where there were instances of citizens resorting to tyrannicide as a desperate measure to protect their freedom and democratic ideals. Notable examples include the assassination of the tyrant Hipparchus in Athens in 514 BCE by Harmodius and Aristogeiton, and the act of Brutus and his allies in the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BCE.
Tyrannicide is a controversial concept, as it raises ethical and moral questions regarding the use of violence to achieve political change. Some argue that tyrannicide can be justified as a last resort when all peaceful means of opposing tyranny have been exhausted. Others believe that it perpetuates a cycle of violence and may not guarantee a better future for a society.
In modern times, the term has mostly been used in a historical context, emphasizing the significance of those who have engaged in tyrannicide throughout history.
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The act of killing a tyrant; one who kills a tyrant.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TYRANNICIDE
- ryrannicide
- fyrannicide
- gyrannicide
- yyrannicide
- 6yrannicide
- 5yrannicide
- ttrannicide
- tgrannicide
- thrannicide
- turannicide
- t7rannicide
- t6rannicide
- tyeannicide
- tydannicide
- tyfannicide
- tytannicide
- ty5annicide
- ty4annicide
- tyrznnicide
- tyranicide
- Tyrannizide
Etymology of TYRANNICIDE
The word "tyrannicide" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "tyrannus" and "caedere".
The Latin word "tyrannus" (plural tyranni) referred to a ruler who governed with absolute power, often characterized by oppression and cruelty. It is derived from the Greek word "tyrannos" meaning "absolute ruler" or "master".
The Latin verb "caedere" means "to kill" or "to murder". This root is also found in words like "homicide" and "fratricide".
When combined, "tyrannus" and "caedere" form the term "tyrannicidium", which ultimately became "tyrannicide" in English. It refers to the act of killing or assassinating a tyrant or tyrannical ruler.
Similar spelling words for TYRANNICIDE
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