# downtrodden

/ˌdaʊnˈtɹɑdən/ (US) · /dˈaʊntɹɒdən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/downtrodden
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

treated badly by people with power and kept from a fair life. You use it for groups who are poor or have few rights.

For teachers: oppressed or kept down by people in power, denied fair treatment or basic rights. Often describes poor or socially disadvantaged groups.

## Examples

- She helps downtrodden families find safe housing.
- The charity provides free meals and legal help to downtrodden workers in the city.
- The novel gives voice to the downtrodden mill workers whose labor built the town's wealth but who never shared in its comfort.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun for a group; also used predicatively after 'be' or 'feel'.

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