Definitions

downtrodden

[doun-trod-n] / ˈdaʊnˌtrɒd n /

ADJECTIVE

afflicted, abused

Synonyms

STRONGEST

destitute distressed exploited needy oppressed persecuted

WEAK

a slave to abject at one's beck and call at one's feet at one's mercy have-not helpless in one's clutches in one's pocket in one's power led by the nose maltreated mistreated overcome subjugated subservient suppressed tyrannized under one's thumb underdog underfoot

Antonyms

STRONGEST

rich wealthy

WEAK

happy respected satisfied

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Shia Muslims have historically been the downtrodden of Lebanon," she said.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

That’s nothing compared to the challenges facing college basketball’s increasingly downtrodden other half, though.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

In light of the various industry-focused stock-market declines driven by AI adoption, some professional investors have been jumping onto downtrodden stocks.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 13, 2026

The Dardennes are frequently described as socially conscious filmmakers whose body of work constitutes an extended implied plea for more sympathy for the downtrodden.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

Kleptocracies with little public support run the risk of being overthrown, either by downtrodden commoners or by upstart would-be replacement kleptocrats seeking public support by promising a higher ratio of services rendered to fruits stolen.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Vocabulary lists containing downtrodden

Speak

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Murder on the Orient Express

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I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

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