What does the cryptic crossword clue "United States under old tyrant is oppressive (7)" mean?

The definition is "oppressive". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). O (synonym of "old") + NERO (synonym of "tyrant") + U (synonym of "United") + S (abbreviation of "States"); definition: "oppressive" The answer is ONEROUS.

United States under old tyrant is oppressive (7)

Times Cryptic #28154 | 2 Down | 2021-12-07 flower

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