English Reference
Verb

enslave

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ɛnˈsɫeɪv/ UK /ɛnslˈeɪv/ en·slave UK spelling enslaved, enslaves

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.


SIMPLE

The country was enslaved by its debt for decades.

CONTEXTUAL

Many people feel enslaved by their work schedules, leaving little time for family or personal interests.

COMPLEX

The historical narrative explores how the colonial powers managed to enslave entire populations through a combination of military force and economic coercion.

Usage enslaved people

He describes himself and Rosalee, enslaved orphans in childhood, “freed but not free” in adulthood, as “nothing people”.

The Guardian· 8 Sept 2026

From en- + slave.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated