- subordinate (adj.)
- mid-15c., from Medieval Latin subordinatus "placed in a lower order, made subject," past participle of subordinare "place in a lower order," from Latin sub "under" (see sub-) + ordinare "arrange" (see ordain). Related: Subordinance; subordinant.
- subordinate (v.)
- "to bring into a subordinate position," 1590s; see subordinate (adj.). Related: Subordinated; subordinating.