subordinates

NOUN

person that serves another

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aide assistant deputy servant underling

STRONG

attendant dependent flunky gofer helper inferior junior peon scrub second serf slave subaltern

WEAK

poor relation second fiddle second string third string

Antonyms

WEAK

boss chief leader major manager master superior

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.

Holder, subordinates text and history to state prerogatives.

From Slate • May 5, 2026

After its triumph in war with Persia, Athens under Pericles began to treat its allies as subordinates to be exploited.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Under this model, leaders give subordinates clear objectives but leave the tactical execution to their discretion.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

The complaint detailed taped comments made by Petillo’s subordinates but included no evidence showing she had participated in the exchanges.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

But he cannot escape the dynamic dictated to him by his culture in which subordinates must respect the dictates of their superiors.

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell