Suborn

Quick meaning: Suborn is a verb meaning (also figuratively) To induce (someone) to commit an unlawful or malicious act, especially in a corrupt manner.

Meaning

(also figuratively) To induce (someone) to commit an unlawful or malicious act, especially in a corrupt manner.

More Meanings

1. To achieve (some result; specifically, perjury) in a corrupt manner.
2. To procure or provide (something) secretly and often in a dishonest manner.
3. To make use of (something), especially for corrupt or dishonest reasons.
4. To aid, assist, or support (something).
5. To furnish or provide (something).
6. To substitute (a thing) for something else, especially secretly and often in a dishonest manner.

Example Sentences

[F]or my part, I vvould as ſoon ſuborn an Evidence at an Aſſize, as a Vote at an Election.

Firm we ſubſiſt, yet poſſible to ſwerve, / Since Reaſon not impoſſibly may meet / Some ſpecious object by the Foe ſubornd, […]

[U]pon ſingle Perjuries ſuborned by themſelves they condemned Men unheard, and ſold their Eſtates vvithout ſuffering them to ſpeak for themſelves— […]

In a golden bowl / She then suborn'd a potion, in her soul / Deform'd things thinking; for amidst the wine / She mix'd her man-transforming medicine; […]

Word Forms

• suborns
• suborning
• suborned
• subornest
• subornedst
• suborneth

Synonyms for suborn

Depending on context, synonyms include debauch, seduce, adulterate, corrupt, demoralize, detort.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include bribe, prevaricate, usurp, shirk, perjure, immoralize.

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