Subdue

/səbˈdjuː/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to bring under control or domination.

The police were able to subdue the violent suspect without causing injury.

to overpower or overcome.

She tried to subdue her anger and remain calm during the argument.

to reduce the intensity or degree of something.

The gardener used a special technique to subdue the growth of the invasive weeds in the garden.

to make less intense or active.

He managed to subdue his excitement as he waited for the announcement.

Middle English, from Old French 'subduire', from Latin 'subducere' meaning 'to lead away, withdraw'.

subdue a rebellion

To suppress or put down a revolt or uprising.

subdue one's feelings

To control or manage emotions.

subdue the noise

To lessen or quiet loud sounds.

subjugate

To bring under domination or control.

repress

To subdue by force or intimidation.

restrain

To hold back or control from action.

To beat down someone's enthusiasm.

Don't let the critics subdue your excitement for the project.

To chill or calm someone down.

I had to subdue my friend after he got too hyped up.