Word Direct Answers

What does "subdue" mean?

Subdue: 2. To overpower so as to disable from further resistance; to crush. Nothing could have subdued nature To such a lowness, but his unkind daughters. Shak. If aught . . . were worthy to subdue The soul of man. Milton.

Additional senses

  1. 2.To destroy the force of; to overcome; as, medicines subdue a fever.
  2. 3.To render submissive; to bring under command; to reduce to mildness or obedience; to tame; as, to subdue a stubborn child; to subdue the temper or passions.
  3. 4.To overcome, as by persuasion or other mild means; as, to subdue opposition by argument or entreaties.
  4. 5.To reduce to tenderness; to melt; to soften; as, to subdue ferocity by tears.
  5. 6.To make mellow; to break, as land; also, to destroy, as weeds.
  6. 7.To reduce the intensity or degree of; to tone down; to soften; as, to subdue the brilliancy of colors. See Conquer.

Sources