Which of the following best defines the word 'servitude'?

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Study for the SAT Vocabulary 2025 Test. Master vocabulary with flashcards and questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term 'servitude' refers to a condition in which an individual is subjected to the will of another, often involving a lack of freedom and autonomy. Specifically, it denotes a state of being enslaved or forced into labor under compulsion. This definition aligns perfectly with the concept of forced labor, as it implies a situation where individuals work against their will, typically to fulfill the demands of another party.

In contrast, the other options present very different meanings. Voluntary service suggests willingly offering one's time or effort to help others without coercion, which does not capture the essence of servitude. Financial support refers to providing monetary assistance, which is unrelated to the concept of labor and personal freedom. Generosity of spirit connotes an attitude of kindness and giving, again straying far from the associations of involuntary work or lack of freedom that 'servitude' embodies. Therefore, the correct choice effectively encapsulates the inherent meaning of the word.