A noun denoting someone in a state of bondage or servitude. Originally it distinguished those born into slavery from those enslaved later, but it came to serve as the general term for a slave or bondservant, in contrast to a master (δεσπότης). Greek writers applied it to Persians and others living under despotic rule, and metaphorically to those enslaved to passions, money, or appetites. The feminine form (δούλη) refers to a female slave or bondwoman. As an adjective, it describes slavish, servile character or actions. The term encompasses legal slavery, political subjection, and metaphorical bondage to powers other than a literal master.