Category:Slavery

Slav"er*y, n.; pl. Slaveries. Etym: [see 2d slave.]

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.

Syn. -- bondage; servitude; inthrallment; enslavement; captivity; bond Service; vassalage.