subdue

Subdue is a transitive verb meaning to bring under control, restrain, or quiet. It can refer to overcoming resistance, suppressing an uprising, or calming strong emotions or impulses. The sense often implies effort, discipline, or force, but can also denote gradual restraint or moderation.

Etymology: The word originates in late Middle English as subduen, from Old French souduer, and ultimately from Latin subducere, meaning to draw under or lead under.

Usage: Subdue is used in various contexts, including law enforcement and military operations (to subdue a suspect or a riot), governance (to subdue a rebellion or insurgency), animal handling (to subdue a horse), and psychology or self-control (to subdue anger, desire, or other impulses). It often carries connotations of coercion, containment, or suppression, though it can also describe nonviolent or gradual restraint.

Examples: The army sought to subdue the region with minimal casualties. She managed to subdue her fear and give a steady performance. The gardeners worked to subdue the invasive vines without harming nearby plants.

See also: Subjugate, quell, suppress, pacify, tame, restrain.