/slay"veuh ree, slayv"ree/ , n.
1. the condition of a slave; bondage.
2. the keeping of slaves as a practice or institution.
3. a state of subjection like that of a slave: He was kept in slavery by drugs.
4. severe toil; drudgery.
[ 1545-55; SLAVE + -ERY ]
Syn. 1. thralldom, enthrallment. SLAVERY, BONDAGE, SERVITUDE refer to involuntary subjection to another or others. SLAVERY emphasizes the idea of complete ownership and control by a master: to be sold into slavery. BONDAGE indicates a state of subjugation or captivity often involving burdensome and degrading labor: in bondage to a cruel master. SERVITUDE is compulsory service, often such as is required by a legal penalty: penal servitude. 4. moil, labor.