Dictionary definition of subordinate

Subordinate can also refer to something that is considered to be of less importance or secondary in relation to something else. In the workplace, a subordinate is typically an employee who reports to a manager or supervisor and is responsible for carrying out the instructions and decisions of that person. In a military context, a subordinate is a lower-ranking officer or enlisted person who is under the command of a higher-ranking officer. The term can also be used in a broader sense to describe any relationship where one person or group is subject to the authority or control of another.

In terms of grammar, subordinate clauses are clauses that cannot stand alone as a sentence and are dependent on a main clause. Subordinate clauses provide additional information to the main clause and often begin with words such as "because," "although," "when," "if," and "while"

Overall, subordinate refers to a lower position, status, or rank in a hierarchy, or something that is considered to be secondary or dependent.