subjugation
sub-juh-GAY-shun
/ˌsʌb.dʒəˈɡeɪ.ʃən/
The act of bringing someone or something under domination or control; forcible enslavement or suppression.
Focuses on the active process of conquering, subduing, or forcing a population into submission.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'subjugare', meaning 'to bring under the yoke' (sub iugum). In Roman warfare, defeated enemies were made to march under an arch of spears representing a wooden cattle yoke to symbolize complete submission.
Word relationships
- oppression: Oppression is prolonged cruel treatment, while subjugation specifically highlights being brought under total conquest or control.
- liberation: Liberation is setting free from control, whereas subjugation is forcing into control.
Commonly confused with
- subjective: Subjugate means to conquer; subjective means based on personal opinion.
Word family
- subjugate (verb): To bring under domination or control.
- subjugated (adjective): Brought under control or governed.
Collocations
- systemic subjugation
- enforce subjugation
- subjugation of women
Example sentences
- "The subjugation of neighboring kingdoms allowed the empire to expand its territory and its labor force." Political Philosophy
- "The subjugation of indigenous communities was enforced through legal decrees and military power." Historical Analysis
Memory hook
Sub (under) + jug (yoke) = putting a heavy yoke around someone's neck. Brought under the yoke.
When not to use
Do not use for mild agreement or voluntary compromise.
Fun facts
- The literal Roman yoke consisted of two upright spears with a third bound horizontally across the top, under which defeated soldiers bowed.
Related words
Explore more words
subjugate, suppress, oppressive, domineer, submissive, submission
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