subdue

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb put down by force or intimidation
  2. verb to put down by force or authority
  3. verb hold within limits and control

Etymology

From Middle English subdewen, subduen, sodewen, from Old French souduire, from Latin subdūcō (“to draw away”), perhaps influenced by subdō (“to subdue, subject”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

repress, quash, keep down, subjugate, reduce

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