阎王
king of hell; tyrannical person
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
Yama; King of Hell; ruler of the underworld
formalA central figure in Chinese folk religion, Buddhism, and Daoism who judges the dead and assigns their afterlife fate. Often appears in idioms and expressions about death or punishment.
According to folk legend, everyone must go see the King of Hell after they die.
If the King of Hell decides you die at midnight, no one dares keep you alive till dawn.
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In hell, the hall of Yama is the most terrifying place.
noun
extremely strict or cruel person; tyrant; ruthless authority figure
informalUsed metaphorically to describe someone who is merciless, tyrannical, or who enforces rules with extreme severity. Often used for bosses, officials, or strict elders.
That boss is too harsh on his employees; he's simply a living tyrant.
In the old society, landlords oppressed the poor like ruthless kings of hell.
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When he glares, the children are terrified; they secretly call him 'little tyrant'.