Oppress (verb)

1. To keep down by severe and unjust use of force or authority.
2. To burden with cruel or unjust impositions or restraints; subject to a burdensome or harsh exercise of authority or power.

Origin:

Late middle english: from old french opprimer, from latin oppress- "pressed down", from the verb opprimere, from ob- "down" + premere "press".

Examples:

1. The government oppressed the people by denying them basic human rights.
2. He felt oppressed by the weight of his responsibilities.
3. The regime oppresses its citizens through censorship and imprisonment.
4. She felt oppressed by the strict rules of the school.
5. The company oppressed its workers by making them work long hours for low pay.