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obsequious

IPA:

Dictionary definition of obsequious

Excessively eager to please or comply with others, especially those in positions of authority.
"The obsequious employee always agreed with everything the boss said."

Detailed meaning of obsequious

It often implies a lack of independence or integrity, and can be seen as a sign of servility or subservience.

Obsequious behavior can manifest in different ways, such as by fawning over someone, agreeing with everything they say, or constantly seeking their approval or validation. It can also include going to great lengths to fulfill their requests, even if it is inconvenient or detrimental to oneself. The opposite of obsequiousness would be assertiveness, independence, or self-respect.

In summary, Obsequious refers to a behavior that is excessively eager to please or comply with others, especially those in positions of authority, which often implies a lack of independence or integrity, seen as a sign of servility or subservience and can manifest in different ways such as fawning over someone, agreeing with everything they say, or constantly seeking their approval or validation.

Example sentences containing obsequious

1. John's obsequious attitude at work didn't fool his boss, who knew he was only trying to get a promotion.
2. The waiter's obsequious behavior made us feel uncomfortable, as if we were royalty instead of regular patrons.
3. She was disgusted by the obsequious flattery from her admirers, craving for genuine friendship instead.
4. With his obsequious manners, the butler attended to every whim of the spoiled millionaire.
5. The obsequious nature of the minion is perfectly illustrated in his desperate attempts to please the villain.
6. His obsequious remarks at the meeting were clearly aimed at winning the favor of the new manager.

History and etymology of obsequious

The adjective 'obsequious' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'obsequiosus,' which is formed from 'obsequium,' meaning 'compliance' or 'obedience.' In Latin, 'obsequiosus' referred to a quality of being compliant or obedient, particularly in the context of showing deference or servility. Over time, as the word was adopted into English, it came to describe individuals who are excessively eager to please or comply with others, especially those in positions of authority. An 'obsequious' person is often seen as excessively fawning, subservient, or ingratiating, sometimes to the point of sacrificing their own dignity or integrity in their efforts to gain favor or approval. The etymology of 'obsequious' underscores its historical connection to the concept of compliance and servility, highlighting the idea of excessive eagerness to please as a defining characteristic of this term.

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Further usage examples of obsequious

1. The politician was surrounded by obsequious aides who did everything they could to stay in his good graces.
2. Despite her obsequious demeanor, she held a deeply rebellious spirit within her.
3. The celebrity's obsequious fans followed his every move and applauded his every word.
4. The obsequious employee quickly fetched a chair for his boss when he entered the room.
5. As the rich woman passed by, obsequious merchants tried to win her attention with exaggerated compliments.
6. The villain's obsequious henchmen rarely questioned his orders, no matter how outrageous they were.
7. His obsequious behavior was more about preserving his own position than respecting authority.
8. The salesman's obsequious manner was so overbearing that customers often felt pressured to buy something.
9. The obsequious student always volunteered to clean the blackboard in hopes of earning extra credit.
10. With an obsequious grin, the thief apologized for his wrongdoing, hoping to lessen his punishment.
11. She was weary of the obsequious smiles and false praise that surrounded her as a Hollywood starlet.
12. The audience was put off by the speaker's obsequious demeanor, which felt fake and contrived.
13. The obsequious servant catered to every whim of the queen, ensuring he was always in her good favor.
14. Despite the obsequious compliment, she could sense his resentment underneath.