Slavery

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. The condition of a slave; the state of entire subjection of one person to the will of another. Disguise thyself as thou wilt, still, slavery, said I, still thou art a bitter draught! Sterne. I wish, from my soul, that the legislature of this state [Virginia] could see the policy of a gradual abolition of slavery. It might prevent much future mischief. Washington.

2. A condition of subjection or submission characterized by lack of freedom of action or of will. The vulgar slaveries rich men submit to. C. Lever. There is a slavery that no legislation can abolish, -- the slavery of caste. G. W. Cable.

3. The holding of slaves.

Synonyms: Bondage; servitude; inthrallment; enslavement; captivity; bond service; vassalage.