—Synonyms 1. thralldom, enthrallment. Slavery,bondage,servitude refer to involuntary subjection to another or others. Slavery emphasizes the idea of complete ownership and control by a master: to be sold into slavery. Bondage indicates a state of subjugation or captivity often involving burdensome and degrading labor: in bondage to a cruel master. Servitude is compulsory service, often such as is required by a legal penalty: penal servitude. 4. moil, labor.
Slav"er*y\, n.; pl. Slaveries. [See 2d Slave.]1. The condition of a slave; the state of entire subjection of one person to the will of another. Disguise thyself as thou wilt, still, slavery, said I, still thou art a bitter draught! --Sterne. I wish, from my soul, that the legislature of this state [Virginia] could see the policy of a gradual abolition of slavery. It might prevent much future mischief. --Washington. 2. A condition of subjection or submission characterized by lack of freedom of action or of will. The vulgar slaveries rich men submit to. --C. Lever. There is a slavery that no legislation can abolish, -- the slavery of caste. --G. W. Cable. 3. The holding of slaves. Syn: Bondage; servitude; inthrallment; enslavement; captivity; bond service; vassalage.
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