Emily Dickinson Lexicon

OP-PRESS', v.t. [Fr. oppresser; L. oppressus, from opprimo; ob and premo, to press.]

1. To load or burden with unreasonable impositions; to treat with unjust severity, rigor or hardship; as, to oppress a nation with taxes or contributions; to oppress one by compelling him to perform unreasonable service.
2. To overpower; to overburden; as, to be oppressed with grief.
3. To sit or lie heavy on; as, excess of food oppresses the stomach.