verb
subdue
suhb-DYOO
Subdue (verb) means to bring a person, animal, or feeling under control, often by force or effort. Example: “It took three officers to subdue the struggling suspect.”
verb
1
To bring a person, animal, or feeling under control, often by force or effort.
"It took three officers to subdue the struggling suspect."
"She tried to subdue her rising panic before the interview."
2
To conquer a country or people and bring them under one's control.
"The empire subdued the rebellious province after a long campaign."
How to use subdue
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo bring something or someone under control, whether that's a person, an army, or an emotion.
Common pairings
subdue a rebellion
subdue an opponent
subdue one's fear
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- subdues
- Past tense
- subdued
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It took three officers to _____ the struggling suspect.
Etymology
From Old French souduire, ultimately from Latin subdūcō ("to draw away, withdraw"), likely blended in meaning with subdō ("to subject, subdue").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for subdue
See all rhymes for subdue →Frequently asked questions
What does “subdue” mean?
The word “subdue” means to bring a person, animal, or feeling under control, often by force or effort. In plain terms, to bring something or someone under control, whether that's a person, an army, or an emotion.
How do you pronounce “subdue”?
“Subdue” is pronounced suhb-DYOO (/səbˈdu/ in IPA).
How do you use “subdue” in a sentence?
Here is “subdue” used in a sentence: “It took three officers to subdue the struggling suspect.”
What part of speech is “subdue”?
“Subdue” is a verb.
Where does the word “subdue” come from?
The word “subdue” comes from Latin. From Old French souduire, ultimately from Latin subdūcō ("to draw away, withdraw"), likely blended in meaning with subdō ("to subject, subdue").
How many meanings does “subdue” have?
“Subdue” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to bring a person, animal, or feeling under control, often by force or effort.
