slavery
n.-
1 the historical institution (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe system where people are owned by others as property and forced to work without pay.
the legal or social institution of owning human beings as property, typically for the purpose of forced labour.
ExampleMany countries fought long wars to finally end the practice of slavery.
ExampleThe abolitionist movement gained significant momentum in the nineteenth century, eventually leading to the legal prohibition of slavery in many Western nations.
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2 forced labour (n.) B2 Upper Intermediateany situation where people are forced to work against their will and cannot leave.
the condition of being subjected to forced labour or involuntary servitude, regardless of legal status.
ExampleModern slavery often involves people being trapped in jobs they cannot escape.
ExampleHuman rights organisations work tirelessly to identify and dismantle networks involved in modern slavery and human trafficking.
- forced labour
- exploitation
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3 figurative subjugation (n.) C1 Advanced Literarya state of being controlled by something else, like a bad habit or a strong feeling.
a figurative state of being captivated or dominated by an external force, such as an addiction or an obsession.
ExampleHe felt that his constant need for money was a kind of slavery.
ExampleThe philosopher argued that the slavery of greed is often more difficult to escape than physical chains.
From slave + -ery.
From slaver + -y.