bondage
UK: ˈbɒndɪdʒ | US: ˈbɑːndɪdʒ
n. the state of being physically restrained or enslaved
n. (figuratively) emotional or psychological domination
n. (historical) the condition of a serf or feudal servant
The word "bondage" originates from Middle English, derived from the Old English "bonda" (householder, serf) and the suffix "-age" (from Latin "-aticum"), which denotes a state or condition. The root "bond" traces back to Old Norse "böndi" (a tiller of soil, serf), reflecting the historical context of feudal servitude. Over time, "bondage" expanded from literal physical restraint to metaphorical subjugation, retaining its core idea of being bound or confined.
The novel depicts the harsh realities of slavery and bondage in the 18th century.
Some people enjoy role-playing scenarios involving light bondage.
Breaking free from emotional bondage requires self-awareness and courage.
Feudal bondage tied peasants to the land they worked on.
The activist fought against all forms of modern-day bondage.