1. a man who is bound in servitude; a slave or serf
Usage: archaic; historical
2. a man bound by a legal obligation or debt
Usage: archaic; legal

Examples

• In medieval times, a bondman had no freedom and worked the land for his lord.
• The bondman was legally tied to the estate and could not leave without permission.
• Historical records describe the harsh conditions faced by bondmen in ancient societies.
• Unlike a free laborer, a bondman could be bought and sold as property.
• The bondman's status was inherited, passing from parent to child through generations.