Downtrodden: meaning, definitions and examples

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downtrodden

[daʊnˈtrɒdən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling oppressed

Feeling oppressed or treated badly by people in power. It describes someone who has been mistreated or abused.

Synonyms

exploited, maltreated, oppressed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
downtrodden	This word is often used to describe people or groups who have been treated very badly or unfairly over a long period of time. It conveys a sense of helplessness and defeat. The documentary highlighted the plight of the downtrodden workers in the factory
oppressed	This word describes people who are being kept down by unjust use of force or authority. It is often used in political or social contexts to describe systemic or institutional abuse. Throughout history, many groups have been oppressed by dictatorial regimes
exploited	This word is used when referring to people who are being unfairly used for someone else's benefit, often in a work or labor context. It implies taking advantage of someone. The employees felt exploited after realizing they were being paid less than the minimum wage
maltreated	This word is used to describe someone who has been treated in a rough or cruel manner. It can refer to physical, emotional, or psychological abuse. Animal rights activists are concerned about the maltreated elephants at the zoo

Examples of usage

They are the downtrodden masses who have long suffered under the oppressive regime.
The downtrodden workers finally stood up for their rights and demanded fair treatment.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

subdued

Having a defeated or submissive attitude, often as a result of harsh treatment or circumstances.

Synonyms

defeated, subdued, submissive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
downtrodden	This word is often used to describe people who have been oppressed or treated unfairly over a long period. It suggests a sense of deep suffering and injustice. The downtrodden workers finally decided to strike for better conditions. She felt downtrodden after years of enduring harassment at work.
subdued	This word can describe someone who is quiet and not as active or happy as usual. It often implies a temporary state due to specific circumstances. She looked subdued after receiving some bad news. The party was more subdued than usual after the recent tragedy in the community.
defeated	This word is suitable for describing someone who has lost a fight, competition, or some kind of challenge. It conveys a sense of failure and hopelessness. After the championship game, the defeated team walked off the field in silence. He felt defeated when he didn't get the promotion he had worked so hard for.
submissive	This word is often used to describe people who are willing to yield to the will or authority of others without resistance. It can have a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of self-respect or assertiveness. The dog was submissive and obeyed every command. He was too submissive to stand up for himself at the meeting.

Examples of usage

She looked downtrodden after receiving the bad news about her job.
The downtrodden expression on his face revealed the struggles he had been facing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 'down' meaning low or below, and 'trodden' from 'tread', which means to walk, suggesting being walked over or mistreated.
It has been used in the English language since the 17th century, indicating historical struggles of certain groups.
Variations of the word appear in many languages, often conveying themes of oppression and hardship.

Social Justice

Throughout history, downtrodden groups have included the poor, marginalized communities, and those facing discrimination.
Activists often advocate for the rights of the downtrodden, aiming to empower them and improve their living conditions.
Literature and art have highlighted their struggles, raising awareness about social injustices and inspiring change.

Psychology

Experiencing regular mistreatment can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression in individuals from downtrodden backgrounds.
Social support and community can play crucial roles in helping the downtrodden regain confidence and hope.
Resilience is often noted in studies about downtrodden populations, showcasing their ability to cope with adversity.

Literature

Charles Dickens often portrayed downtrodden characters in his novels, highlighting their struggles in Victorian society.
Poets and playwrights have used the term to evoke empathy for those in dire situations, making it a powerful component of their works.
Many modern stories focus on the journey of downtrodden individuals who rise above their circumstances, offering themes of hope and empowerment.

History

Significant social movements, such as the abolition of slavery and civil rights movements, aimed to uplift downtrodden individuals and combat systemic injustice.
Historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi recognized the importance of addressing the needs and dignity of the downtrodden to achieve social change.
In many cultures, folklore often features allegories about downtrodden heroes, symbolizing the fight against oppression.

Translations

Translations of the word "downtrodden" in other languages:

🇵🇹 oprimido

🇮🇳 दबाया हुआ

🇩🇪 unterdrückt

🇮🇩 tertekan

🇺🇦 приниження

🇵🇱 uciskany

🇯🇵 抑圧された

🇫🇷 opprimé

🇪🇸 oprimido

🇹🇷 ezilen

🇰🇷 억압받는

🇸🇦 مضطهد

🇨🇿 utlačovaný

🇸🇰 utláčaný

🇨🇳 被压迫的

🇸🇮 zatiran

🇮🇸 ofbeldur

🇰🇿 зәбірленген

🇬🇪 დახშული

🇦🇿 sıxışdırılmış

🇲🇽 oprimido

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,084, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
26081 blithe
26082 queueing
26083 glib
26084 downtrodden
26085 hedgehog
26086 perilously
26087 untie
...