Definition

Noun: 1. A period of violence and mass executions, especially for political purposes: This term primarily refers to the specific period (1793-1794) during the French Revolution when the Revolutionary government, led by the Committee of Public Safety, used extreme measures against perceived enemies, resulting in thousands of executions by guillotine. 2. Any period characterized by brutal intimidation and suppression: More broadly, it describes any era or situation where a ruling power uses severe violence, fear, and oppression to control or eliminate opposition.

Usage Examples

• Referring to the historical event:
  • The Reign of Terror was a dark chapter in the French Revolution.
  • Many aristocrats and political figures lost their lives during the Reign of Terror.
• Referring to a general period of brutality:
  • The dictator's rule was a reign of terror for anyone who dared to criticize the government.
  • The gang established a reign of terror in the neighborhood, extorting money from local businesses.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is often capitalized ("the Reign of Terror") when referring specifically to the historical event in France.
• It can be used metaphorically outside of political contexts to describe an atmosphere of extreme fear and control, such as in a workplace or school.
  • The new manager's reign of terror led to low morale and high staff turnover.

Variants and Related Words

• Terror (n): Extreme fear; violent action or the threat of violence used to intimidate or coerce.
• Terrorize (v): To create and maintain extreme fear in someone; to coerce through violence or threats.

Synonyms

• Persecution: Hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of race, political, or religious beliefs.
• Oppression: Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control.
• Despotism: The exercise of absolute power, especially in a cruel and oppressive way.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Rule with an iron fist: To govern or control in a very strict and often cruel way. This idiom describes the method of control often seen during a reign of terror.
  • The military junta ruled with an iron fist, silencing all dissent.

Noun

1. the historic period (1793-94) during the French Revolution when thousands were executed
   • the Reign of the Bourbons ended and the Reign of Terror began
2. any period of brutal suppression thought to resemble the Reign of Terror in France