Slav·er·y n.; pl. Slaveries
1. The condition of a slave; the state of entire subjection of one person to the will of another.
Disguise thyself as thou wilt, still, slavery, said I, still thou art a bitter draught! --Sterne.
I wish, from my soul, that the legislature of this state [Virginia] could see the policy of a gradual abolition of slavery. It might prevent much future mischief. --Washington.
2. A condition of subjection or submission characterized by lack of freedom of action or of will.
The vulgar slaveries rich men submit to. --C. Lever.
There is a slavery that no legislation can abolish, -- the slavery of caste. --G. W. Cable.
3. The holding of slaves.
Syn: -- Bondage; servitude; inthrallment; enslavement; captivity; bond service; vassalage.
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