1
: in a position of less power or authority than someone else
a subordinate officer/commander
—often + toThe priests are subordinate to the bishops.
2
: less important than someone or something else
a subordinate concern
—often + toIn some cultures, the welfare of the individual is subordinate to the welfare of the group.
plural subordinates
: someone who has less power or authority than someone else : someone who is subordinate to someone else
She leaves the day-to-day running of the firm to her subordinates.
subordinates; subordinated; subordinating
formal
: to think of or treat (someone or something) as less important than someone or something else
—usually + to
The company is guilty of subordinating safety to profit.
His personal life has been subordinated to his career.
Cite this Entry
“Subordinate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/subordinate. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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