1. (noun)
An employee under another employee's supervision and/or rules.
2. (noun)
In the corporate business realm, this often explains one who a) is enslaved or b) is expected to be enslaved to the characteristic of
professionalism (see
professional).
3. (noun)
A queen bee's pet.
4. (noun)
One counted as inferior in business regardless of character or skill. May or may not be more valuable than their managers / superiors.
5. (verb)
The action of kissing up to one counted superior in the business realm. To submit one's self to
inferiority due to pressure, accusation, threat, or other non-work-related situations. The opposite of insubordination.
"This is my
incompetent team member--he's my subordinate."
"There's a new company policy in place."
"I will gladly communicate it to my subordinates."
"I'm the new CEO, and you are...?"
:: Holds out hand to engage in handshake ::
"
I am the manager here and these are my many SUBORDINATES. Did I tell you they are my SUBORDINATES?"
"Sorry I'm late; it looked like my wife was
going into labor."
"And she didn't and you're still late?"
"Well....yeah! I needed to be there and makes sure all was fine."
"I count this as insubordination. I expect you to subordinate yourself to my leadership and coaching tips."
:: Blank stare / jaw drop from employee ::