lords over
Commands from above
To lord over someone is to dominate or rule them with an air of superiority, often abusing one's position of power: He lords over his employees like a medieval tyrant.
The phrase carries contempt for the behavior—suggesting arrogance rather than legitimate authority.
She lords her seniority over the newer staff.
- liegeFeudal superior or subject
- bullyHabitual intimidator
- subjugateBring under dominion
- governExercise political control
- patronizeAct superior toward
high and mighty · wield · rule · oppress · condescend · control · tyrannize · reign · overshadow · preside · intimidate · throws weight around · command · dominate · oversee · lays down the law · exploit · dictate