draconian

Machaela O'Brien, legal advisor for Devon and Cornwall Police, said closure orders could provide an "immediate remedy" but were a "draconian measure".

From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2026

In his most draconian move yet, the Pentagon polygraphed some 50 high-ranking military officers and civilian officials on the Joint Staff, which coordinates operations, policy and war plans with combatant commanders worldwide.

From Salon ● Sep. 14, 2026

Fife Cook said the hearing was a "draconian procedure" and suggested council time and resources could be better used in providing essential services.

From BBC ● Jul. 30, 2026

I believe in its objectives, but it’s too draconian, especially for voters in remote parts of Alaska.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 17, 2026

For example, the San Diego and Los Angeles zoos are now subjecting the last surviving California condors to a more draconian control of breeding than that imposed upon any domesticated species.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond