downtrodden Definition
- 1oppressed or treated badly by people in power
- 2crushed or walked upon by feet
Using downtrodden: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "downtrodden" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The downtrodden masses rose up against the oppressive regime.
Example
The workers were downtrodden and exploited by their employers.
Example
The homeless man looked downtrodden and defeated.
downtrodden Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for downtrodden
Antonyms for downtrodden
Phrases with downtrodden
to take advantage of someone who is already in a difficult situation
Example
I can't believe you're trying to get money out of him now - talk about kicking someone when they're down!
Example
He's always putting me down in front of other people.
Example
I feel like my boss is always stepping on me and taking credit for my work.
Origins of downtrodden
from 'down-' meaning 'from a higher to a lower place' and 'tread' meaning 'to step on'
Summary: downtrodden in Brief
'Downtrodden' [doun-trod-n] describes people who are oppressed or treated badly by those in power. It can also mean being crushed or walked upon by feet. Examples include 'The downtrodden masses rose up against the oppressive regime' and 'The workers were downtrodden and exploited by their employers.' Phrases like 'kick someone when they are down' and 'put someone down' are often used to describe unfair treatment.
