procrustean

comparative more procrustean · superlative most procrustean · alternative Procrustean

1. Enforcing strict conformity through disregard of individual differences or special circumstances.First known use 17th c.

   The concept of an Age of Nationalism is a bit procrustean.

   2011, Steven Pinker, The Better Angels of Our Nature, Penguin, published 2012, page 287

   1 more example

   The object in choosing the political capital is average nearness of approach from the various confines of the State; but commerce submits to no such Procrustean laws in selecting her capitals, and consequently she has placed Detroit on the borders of Michigan, […]

   1862, Anthony Trollope, chapter IX, in North America. […], volume I, London: Chapman & Hall, […], →OCLC

comparative more Procrustean · superlative most Procrustean

1. Alternative letter-case form of procrustean.

   We should not see their intellects stunted by Procrustean attempts to teach them all the same accomplishments, to the neglect, most often, of any sound practical training of their faculties.

   (Can we date this quote?), Charles Kingsley, “Science”, in Scientific Essays and Lectures