Pronunciation: /ˈsleɪvəri/

Definitions of slavery

noun a condition compared to that of a slave in respect of exhausting labor or restricted freedom

Example Sentences

A1 Slavery was abolished in many countries long ago.

A2 The history books teach us about the horrors of slavery.

B1 Slavery was a common practice in the past, but is now illegal in most countries.

B2 The abolition of slavery was a major turning point in history.

C1 The legacy of slavery continues to impact society in profound ways.

C2 Scholars continue to research the lasting effects of slavery on modern society.

Examples of slavery in a Sentence

formal Slavery was abolished in the United States in 1865 with the passing of the 13th Amendment.

informal Some people still believe that modern-day sweatshops are a form of slavery.

slang Man, working at that job feels like slavery sometimes.

figurative Being trapped in a toxic relationship can feel like emotional slavery.

Grammatical Forms of slavery

plural

slaveries

comparative

more slavery

superlative

most slavery

present tense

enslaves

future tense

will enslave

perfect tense

has enslaved

continuous tense

is enslaving

singular

slavery

positive degree

slave

infinitive

to enslave

gerund

enslaving

participle

enslaved

Origin and Evolution of slavery

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old French
Story behind the word: The word 'slavery' is derived from the Old French word 'esclaverie' which means the condition of being a slave.
Evolution of the word: The concept of slavery has existed for centuries, but the term 'slavery' began to be used in the English language around the 13th century. Over time, the meaning of the word has evolved to encompass various forms of forced labor and exploitation.