An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. The exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner.
   

   2. An act or instance of oppressing or subjecting to cruel or unjust impositions or restraints.
      

   3. The state of being oppressed (Dictionary.com).

Etymology (EN): M.E. oppressioun, from O.Fr. opresser “oppress; torment,” from M.L. oppressare, from L. opprimere “press against, press down;” from op, variant of ob “against”

• premere “to press, hold fast.”

Etymology (PE): Setam, from Mid.Pers. sthmbk / stambag / “oppressive; obstinate,” related to sitabr “strong, firm,” staft “hard; firm, strong; fierce,” Pers. seft “firm, hard, tight;” sitanbah “strong, robust, bold;” Av. aša.stəmbana- “having the support/firmness of aša;” Lith stembti “to oppose;” Gk. astemphes “unshakable.”