Definition of the word subservience

The word "subservience" has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. The term is derived from the Latin words "sub" meaning "under" or "below" and "servire" meaning "to serve". Initially, the word was used to describe the act of serving or obeying someone or something. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass the idea of being subservient or submissive to someone or something else. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the word gained popularity in literary and philosophical contexts, often referencing the tension between individual freedom and the constraints of societal expectations. In modern times, the word is often used to describe a sense of being bound by rules, norms, or external forces, and the loss of independence or autonomy that comes with it. Despite its evolution, the core idea of "subservience" remains rooted in the concept of service, submission, and obedience.