Subordinate \Sub*or"di*nate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Subordinated}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Subordinating}.] 1. To place in a lower order or class; to make or consider as of less value or importance; as, to subordinate one creature to another. 2. To make subject; to subject or subdue; as, to subordinate the passions to reason. -- {Sub*or"di*nate*ly}, adv. -- {Sub*or"di*nate*ness}, n.