oppress

IPA: ʌprˈɛs

(transitive) To keep down by unjust force.
(transitive) To make sad or gloomy.
(transitive, obsolete) Physically to press down on (someone) with harmful effects; to smother, crush.
(transitive, obsolete) To sexually violate; to rape.

Examples of "oppress" in Sentences

The dictator's regime sought to oppress any dissenting voices and maintain strict control over the population
The minority group felt oppressed by the discriminatory policies of the government
The wealthy landowner used his power to oppress the workers and keep them in poverty
Women throughout history have often been oppressed and denied equal rights and opportunities
The oppressive heat of the desert made it difficult for the travelers to continue their journey