Definition

A system where people work for others to pay off debts, often in harsh conditions, or the state of being in such a situation.

Example

Many workers were trapped in peonage, unable to escape their debts.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of peonage?

Yeah, it's that system where people work off their debts, right?

Exactly! It seems really unfair how it traps people in a cycle.

I agree, it feels like modern-day slavery in some cases.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peonage → It is derived from "peon" (from Spanish *peón*, meaning foot soldier or laborer) and the suffix "-age" (meaning a state or condition). The term "peonage" refers to the condition of being a laborer or worker, often in a servile or debt-bound state.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'peon' as a laborer or foot soldier, and the '-age' indicating a state of being. This helps you remember that 'peonage' refers to the condition of being bound to labor.

Visually Confused Words