subordinate

Definition of subordinate

Pronunciation

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Adjective

subordinate (comparative more subordinate, superlative most subordinate)

1. Placed in a lower class, rank, or position.
2. Submissive to or controlled by authority.
3. (grammar, of a clause, not comparable) dependent on and either modifying or complementing the main clause
   
   In the sentence, "The barbecue finished before John arrived", the subordinate clause "before John arrived" specifies the time of the main clause, "The barbecue finished".

Synonyms

• (placed in a lower class, rank, or position): lesser
• (grammar, dependent on the main clause): dependent

Antonyms

• (placed in a lower class, rank, or position): superior
• (Submissive to or controlled by authority): insubordinate
• (grammar, dependent on and either modifying or complementing the main clause): independent, main

See also

• inferior

Noun

subordinate (plural subordinates)

1. (countable) One that is subordinate.

Synonyms

• underling
• report
• understrapper
• junior
• inferior

Antonyms

• superior
• manager
• supervisor
• insubordinate

Verb

to subordinate (third-person singular simple present subordinates, present participle subordinating, simple past and past participle subordinated)

1. (transitive) To make subservient.
2. (transitive) To treat as of less value or importance.
3. (transitive, finance) To make of lower priority in order of payment in bankruptcy.

Synonyms

• denigrate