Definition

Describing someone or something that owns or possesses slaves.

Example

The historical context of slaveholding in the southern United States is complex and deeply rooted in economic and social structures.

Conversation

I was reading about the history of slaveholding societies yesterday.

That sounds interesting! What did you learn?

It was shocking to see how prevalent slaveholding was in some cultures.

Yeah, it's a dark part of history that we need to remember.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slaveholding → It is formed from "slave" (from Old English *sclaf*, meaning a person in servitude) and "holding" (from Old English *holdan*, meaning to have or keep). The word "slaveholding" refers to the practice of owning or keeping slaves.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'slave' as someone in servitude and 'holding' as having or keeping something — that's why slaveholding means the practice of owning slaves.

Visually Confused Words