downtrodden

American  

[doun-trod-n] / ˈdaʊnˌtrɒd n /

Also downtrod

adjective

1. tyrannized over; oppressed.

   the downtrodden plebeians of ancient Rome.

2. trampled upon.

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downtrodden British  

/ ˈdaʊnˌtrɒdən /

adjective

1. subjugated; oppressed

2. trodden down; trampled

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Other Word Forms

• downtroddenness noun

Etymology

Origin of downtrodden

First recorded in 1560–70; down ¹ + trodden

Example Sentences

But from the Old Testament to the New, it consistently preaches for the faithful to humble themselves, to help the poor and downtrodden.

From Los Angeles Times

“Send Help” is an actual horror show where a downtrodden employee gains flesh-and-blood power over her cruel boss when the two are stranded on a deserted island.

From The Wall Street Journal

Throughout the book, elements from a talking fish to a possibly reincarnated dog exist alongside the bleak reality of a country so downtrodden and occupied that even its cartography isn’t in its own language.

From Los Angeles Times

On Wednesday, Bruce Springsteen — who has been a steady voice for the downtrodden throughout his long career — released “Streets of Minneapolis,” a moving protest anthem based on his Academy Award-winning song “Streets of Philadelphia.”

From Salon

The facility’s namesake harbored no illusions that his donation might one day turn the downtrodden Hoosiers into the country’s top team.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• destitute
• distressed
• exploited
• needy
• oppressed
• persecuted