adj

draconian

druh-KOH-nee-uhn

Draconian (adj) means Extremely harsh or severe, especially regarding laws or punishment. Example: “The regime introduced draconian restrictions on free speech.”

adj

Extremely harsh or severe, especially regarding laws or punishment.

"The regime introduced draconian restrictions on free speech."

"Critics called the new sentencing rules draconian."

How to use draconian

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSo strict and severe that it feels unfairly harsh — usually said about laws, rules, or punishments.

Common mistake

Often capitalised as "Draconian" when directly referring to the historical lawgiver Draco, lowercase "draconian" in general use.

Common pairings

draconian measures draconian laws draconian punishment

Word forms

more draconian comparative, more draconian comparative, draconians plural, most draconian superlative, most draconian superlative

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The regime introduced _____ restrictions on free speech.

Etymology

Named after Draco, an ancient Athenian lawmaker famous for punishing even minor offences with death.

Rhymes for draconian

Asian avian Brian Fabian Indian Syrian simian median Italian Russian Persian Serbian

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Frequently asked questions

What does “draconian” mean?

The word “draconian” means extremely harsh or severe, especially regarding laws or punishment. In plain terms, so strict and severe that it feels unfairly harsh — usually said about laws, rules, or punishments.

How do you pronounce “draconian”?

“Draconian” is pronounced druh-KOH-nee-uhn (/dɹəˈkoʊ.ni.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “draconian” in a sentence?

Here is “draconian” used in a sentence: “The regime introduced draconian restrictions on free speech.”

What part of speech is “draconian”?

“Draconian” is an adjective.