Thrall

/θrɔːl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who is in bondage or servitude; a slave.
In ancient times, many farm laborers lived as thralls under the authority of a landowner.
A state of being under the control of someone or something; a state of servitude or dependence.
She was in thrall to her ambition, sacrificing her personal life for her career.
A person who is captivated or entranced by someone or something.
The audience sat in thrall as the magician performed his extraordinary illusions.

Etymology

Middle English 'thrall', from Old Norse 'þræll', meaning 'slave'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

in thrall:
in a state of bondage or captivated by something
thrall to:
to be under the control of or fascinated by

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Completely enchanted or captivated by something
I was in thrall to the romantic movie all night.