adj inferior in order, nature, dignity, power, importance, or the like.
2. subordinate ·adj placed in a lower order, class, or rank; holding a lower or inferior position.
3. subordinate ·noun one who stands in order or rank below another;
distinguished from a principal.
4. subordinate ·vt to make subject; to subject or subdue; as, to subordinate the passions to reason.
5. subordinate ·vt to place in a lower order or class; to make or consider as of less value or importance; as, to subordinate one creature to another.