thrall
UK: θrɔːl | US: θrɑːl
n. 1. A state of servitude or bondage.
n. 2. A person who is enslaved or dominated by another.
n. 3. (Archaic) A slave or serf.
The word "thrall" originates from Old Norse þræll, which referred to a slave or servant in Viking society. It entered Old English as þrǣl, retaining its core meaning of subjugation. Over time, the term evolved to describe both the condition of bondage ("in thrall") and the enslaved person ("a thrall"). The word's persistence reflects the historical impact of Norse culture on English, particularly during the Viking Age.
The king’s enemies were held in thrall for decades.
She was a thrall to her own ambitions, unable to break free.
In medieval times, many peasants lived as thralls to feudal lords.
His addiction kept him in thrall, despite his efforts to escape.
The wizard’s magic put the entire village under his thrall.