SUBDUE, v.t. 1. To conquer by force or the exertion of superior power, and bring into permanent subjection; to reduce under dominion. Thus Cesar subdued the Gauls; Augustus subdued Egypt; the English subdued Canada. Subduing implies conquest or vanquishing, but it implies also more permanence of subjection to the conquering power, than either of these words.I will subdue all thine enemies. 1 Chronicles 17.2. To oppress; to crush; to sink; to overpower so as to disable from further resistance.Nothing could have subdud nature to such a lowness, but his unkind daughters.If aught were worthy to subdue the soul of man.3. To tame; to break by conquering a refractory temper or evil passions; to render submissive; as, to subdue a stubborn child.4. To conquer; to reduce to mildness; as, to subdue the temper or passions.5. To overcome by persuasion or other mild means; as, to subdue opposition by argument or intreaties.6. To overcome; to conquer; to captivate; as by charms.7. To soften; to melt; to reduce to tenderness; as, to subdue ferocity by tears.8. To overcome; to overpower and destroy the force of; as, medicines subdue a fever.9. To make mellow; to break; as land; also, to destroy, as weeds.
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