subdues
|sub-dues|
🇺🇸
/səbˈduːz/
🇬🇧
/səbˈdjuːz/
(subdue)
quiet and restrained
Etymology
'subdue' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'subducere' (or related compounds), where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'ducere' meant 'to lead'.
'subdue' changed from the Old French/Middle English forms (Old French 'subduire' / Middle English 'subdue(n)') and eventually became the modern English word 'subdue'.
Initially, it meant 'to lead under' (literally), and over time it evolved into its current primary meaning of 'to bring under control; to overpower or suppress'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to overcome, bring under control, or restrain (someone) by force or authority.
The officer subdues the suspect after a brief struggle.
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Verb 2
to reduce the intensity, severity, or force of something (such as an emotion, sound, or color); to tone down.
He subdues his laughter when the meeting gets serious.
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Last updated: 2026/01/13 10:13