Thraldom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
thraldom
[หฮธrษหldสm ]
Definition
state of servitude
Thraldom refers to the condition of being in bondage or servitude, often used in historical contexts to describe a state of oppression or lack of freedom. This term is derived from the Old English word 'รพrรฆl' which denotes a thrall or slave, indicating a lack of personal autonomy. It can also imply a metaphorical bondage to a particular set of circumstances or dependencies. Thraldom is not commonly used in contemporary language but may appear in discussions about historical slavery or servitude.
Synonyms
bondage, oppression, servitude, slavery.
Examples of usage
- The thraldom of debt can be overwhelming for many individuals.
- In the past, thraldom was a common experience for many in feudal societies.
- She felt a sense of thraldom in her job, as if she were unable to make her own choices.
- The novel explores the thraldom that people faced under oppressive regimes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In medieval Europe, thraldom often described the condition of serfs who worked the land for lords without the ability to leave.
- Various societies practiced forms of thraldom, with the relationships often formalized by law or tradition, showing the complexities of power dynamics.
Literature
- The concept is explored in many literary works, portraying characters trapped in servitude and longing for freedom.
- Classic literature, such as works by Charles Dickens, often critiques societal systems where individuals are subjected to thraldom.
Psychology
- Being in a state of thraldom can lead to psychological effects such as learned helplessness, where the individual feels they have no control over their life.
- Studies suggest that those in oppressive conditions can develop coping mechanisms, illustrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Modern Usage
- In contemporary discussions, thraldom might be used metaphorically to describe situations of high dependency, like extreme addiction or an oppressive job.
- Activists often refer to forms of modern thraldom, such as human trafficking, drawing parallels to historical forms of servitude.
Origin of 'thraldom'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from Old English, where 'รพrรฆl' meant a slave or bondsman, highlighting the historical context of servitude.
- It is related to the word 'thrall,' which means to be in the power of another person, emphasizing a lack of freedom.
The word 'thraldom' traces its origins to the Old English term 'รพrรฆl', which meant slave or thrall. This word is rooted in the concept of servitude, with the notion that individuals could be bound to serve others under coercive conditions. The evolution of thraldom reflects historical practices of slavery and servitude that have existed in various cultures. Etymologically, thraldom ties back to ancient Germanic languages and is associated with themes of domination and subjugation. The term has seen a decline in usage, particularly as modern societies have moved toward concepts of freedom and rights, but it can still be found in literature discussing historical or metaphorical forms of bondage.