3 entries under this word
a. [It. subordinato, Sp. subordinado, Fr. subordonné. See infra.]
Sense 1. Placed in a lower class or rank; holding a lower position.
The several kinds and subordinate species of each are easily distinguished. Woodward.
Sense 2. Inferior in order, in nature, in dignity, in power, importance, or the like.
It was subordinate, not enslaved, to the understanding. South.
n. One who stands in order or rank below another. Milton.
v. t. [imp. & p. p. SUBORDINATED; p. pr. & vb. n. SUBORDINATING.] [Lat. prefix sub, under, and ordinare, to set in order, to arrange; It. subordinate, Sp. subordinar, Fr. subordonner. See ORDAIN.]
Sense 1. To place in a lower order; to make, or consider as, of less value or importance; as, to subordinate one creature to another.
Sense 2. To make subject; to subject or subdue; as, to subordinate the passions to reason.