subordination Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the state of being subordinate to something
  2. noun the semantic relation of being subordinate or belonging to a lower rank or class
    hyponymy.
  3. noun the grammatical relation of a modifying word or phrase to its head
  4. noun the quality of obedient submissiveness
  5. noun the act of mastering or subordinating someone
    mastery.

WordNet

Sub*or`di*na"tion noun
Etymology
Cf. F. subordination.
Definitions
  1. The act of subordinating, placing in a lower order, or subjecting.
  2. The quality or state of being subordinate or inferior to an other; inferiority of rank or dignity; subjection.
    Natural creature having a local subordination. Holyday.
  3. Place of inferior rank.
    Persons who in their several subordinations would be obliged to follow the example of their superiors. Swift.

Webster 1913