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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.

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

Where are the demands for justice and freedom for the downtrodden victims of a brutally repressive state?

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 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

The most important college football story in these parts is about the downtrodden program from Westwood and whether it will leave its dump of a stadium in Pasadena.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 30, 2025

Patrolman Mancuso looked more downtrodden than ever, but Mrs. Reilly was tapping one foot on the linoleum and laughing shyly at what she was watching in the center of the room.

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole