Enslaved: meaning, definitions and examples

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enslaved

 

[ɪnˈsleɪvd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

history

Enslaved means to make someone a slave, to deprive someone of their freedom and make them work for no pay. It is a practice that has been prevalent throughout history, often involving the brutal treatment of individuals who were forcibly enslaved.

Synonyms

bonded, ensnared, subjugated.

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Word Description / Examples
enslaved

Used when referring to the state of being forced into slavery or severe oppression without freedom. This term has a strong historical and emotional connotation, often related to issues of severe human rights violations.

  • Millions of people were enslaved during the transatlantic slave trade.
  • The novel tells the story of an enslaved woman fighting for her freedom.
ensnared

Frequently used to describe being trapped or caught in a literal or metaphorical sense, often through deceit or cunning. This word can be used in a variety of contexts, from physical traps to being caught in a difficult situation.

  • He was ensnared in a web of lies and deceit.
  • The rabbit was ensnared in the hunter's trap.
subjugated

Used to describe the act of bringing someone or something under domination or control, often by force. It has a strong connotation of oppression and dominance, commonly used in historical, social, and political contexts.

  • The invading forces subjugated the local population.
  • The rebels refused to be subjugated by the authoritarian regime.
bonded

This can refer to a form of servitude where a person is bound to work for someone due to debt or legal obligation. The term 'bonded labor' is often used in discussions about modern slavery, particularly in South Asia.

  • Many workers in the region are bonded laborers, trapped by debts they can never repay.
  • The child's father had to take a bonded job to pay off the family debts.

Examples of usage

  • During the transatlantic slave trade, millions of Africans were enslaved and transported to the Americas.
  • The indigenous people of many lands were enslaved by colonial powers for centuries.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, many societies have practiced slavery, often exploiting people for labor, especially in agriculture and mining.
  • In ancient times, conquering armies frequently enslaved captured enemies, considering it a common practice in many cultures.
  • The Atlantic Slave Trade from the 16th to 19th centuries forcibly transported millions of Africans to America, leaving long-lasting effects on society.

Cultural Impact

  • Music genres like blues and jazz were born from the struggles and stories of enslaved people, influencing modern music.
  • Contemporary literature often explores themes of slavery and freedom, highlighting the resilience of those who were enslaved.
  • Movies and art have depicted the painful history of enslavement, helping to raise awareness and educate future generations.

Human Rights

  • Enslavement is considered a violation of human rights, and international laws now strive to combat modern-day slavery.
  • Various organizations work to rescue and rehabilitate those trapped in forced labor, trafficking, and exploitation.
  • Education is a key element in fighting against enslavement, as understanding rights helps prevent exploitation.

Psychological Aspects

  • Those who have been enslaved may suffer from trauma, which can affect their mental health and social reintegration.
  • Understanding the psychology of enforced servitude reveals how power dynamics can create lasting impacts on individual identities.
  • Studies show that breaking the cycle of trauma is essential for healing and restoring agency to former enslaved individuals.

Literature and Arts

  • Harriet Beecher Stowe's 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' played a significant role in shaping public opinion about enslavement in the United States.
  • Poetry and novels often explore the emotional and psychological journeys of those who experienced enslavement, providing personal insights into their lives.
  • Artistic expressions through visual arts have contributed to the discussion and representation of the pain and resilience of enslaved individuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "enslaved" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escravizado

🇮🇳 ग़ुलाम

🇩🇪 versklavt

🇮🇩 diperbudak

🇺🇦 поневолений

🇵🇱 zniewolony

🇯🇵 奴隷にされた

🇫🇷 esclave

🇪🇸 esclavizado

🇹🇷 köleleştirilmiş

🇰🇷 노예화된

🇸🇦 مستعبد

🇨🇿 otrocký

🇸🇰 otrocký

🇨🇳 被奴役的

🇸🇮 zasužnjen

🇮🇸 þrælaður

🇰🇿 құлдықта болған

🇬🇪 მონობაში მყოფი

🇦🇿 qulluqda olan

🇲🇽 esclavizado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,317, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.