# subjugated

/ˈsəbdʒəˌɡeɪtɪd/ (US) · /sˈʌbdʒuːɡˌeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/subjugated
Updated: 2026-10-12

## Definition

describing a person or group that has been brought under the complete control of another, usually by force. It means they have lost their freedom and must obey a new ruler.

For teachers: brought under complete control or made subservient, typically through military conquest or systematic oppression. Often functions as a participial adjective describing the status of a population or territory.

## Examples

- The subjugated people eventually rose up against the cruel king.
- Historians often study how the subjugated tribes managed to preserve their unique cultural traditions despite centuries of foreign rule.
- The treaty was designed to keep the neighboring states permanently subjugated, stripping them of their standing armies and placing their natural resources under imperial administration.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective; typically appears before the noun it modifies or after a linking verb like 'remain' or 'stay'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.