A few days ago
contently_random

“Downtrod” vs. “downtrodden”?

I have a two part question about the words “downtrod” and “downtrodden”. First of all, is “downtrod” still a word acceptable in today’s English language? I know that “downtrod” is the alternate and old word for “downtrodden”, but I was wondering if it still is considered modern language to use. Also, can “downtrodden” be used to describe an object literally being beaten/bent as in “the downtrodden grass” or can it only be used in the context of the oppressed. (For example, “The downtrodden people,”)? Sorry for the bad examples, but I’ve been wondering.

Top 5 Answers
A few days ago
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Favorite Answer

Downtrodden is used for the “oppressed; tyrannized.”

I’d say (or write) that ‘the grass was trampled.’ Or look in the Thesaurus for an alternate word regarding the grass. 🙂

I’ve never heard nor read the word “downtrod.”

Also I thought your examples weren’t bad.

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A few days ago
Anonymous
According to The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition, downtrodden is an adjective and it is current.

Downtrod isn’t listed.

-MM

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A few days ago
Manz
downtrodden
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A few days ago
embroidery fan
“Downtrod” is out.

“Downtrodden” can be used in either context.

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A few days ago
Experto Credo
Downtrodden is what you use
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