slaves
word · lemma: slave
Definition
People who are owned by other people and forced to work without freedom or pay. The word can also be used figuratively for someone completely controlled by a habit, system, or desire, but that use can sound strong or insensitive in some contexts.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in historical, legal, or social-justice contexts and refers to a very serious reality. Common phrases include 'enslaved people', 'slave trade', and 'slave labor'. In modern figurative use, expressions like 'a slave to fashion' exist, but many speakers avoid them because they can minimize the history of slavery.
Example Sentences
Many slaves were forced to work on farms.
basic
The documentary doesn't just list dates—it shows how slaves lived day to day.
natural
People today still study the resistance of slaves, not just their suffering.
natural
In that article, the writer argues that we should say 'enslaved people' instead of 'slaves' in many cases.
natural
The museum tells the story of African slaves in the Americas.
basic
Some slaves tried to escape at night.
basic