Slav"er*y (?), n.; pl. Slaveries (#). [See 2d Slave.]
1.
The condition of a slave; the state of entire subjection of one person to the will of another.
Disguise thyself as thou wilt, still, slavery, said I, still thou art a bitter draught!
Sterne.
I wish, from my soul, that the legislature of this state [Virginia] could see the policy of a gradual abolition of slavery. It might prevent much future mischief.
Washington.
2.
A condition of subjection or submission characterized by lack of freedom of action or of will.
The vulgar slaveries rich men submit to.
C. Lever.
There is a slavery that no legislation can abolish, -- the slavery of caste.
G. W. Cable.
3.
The holding of slaves.
Syn. -- Bondage; servitude; inthrallment; enslavement; captivity; bond service; vassalage.
© Webster 1913.