enslave
v. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɛnˈsɫeɪv// UK //ɛnslˈeɪv// en·slave
v. to force someone to work for another person or group against their will. It can also mean to make someone feel like they are trapped by a habit or a feeling.
v. to force someone into a state of bondage or servitude; to subject to the control of another. Often used figuratively to describe the psychological or emotional domination of a person by a habit, addiction, or ideology.
The country was enslaved by its debt for decades.
Many people feel enslaved by their work schedules, leaving little time for family or personal interests.
The historical narrative explores how the colonial powers managed to enslave entire populations through a combination of military force and economic coercion.
From en- + slave.