obsequious Definition
- 1obedient or attentive to an excessive or servile degree
- 2attempting to win favor from influential people by flattery
Using obsequious: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obsequious" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The obsequious waiter was constantly hovering around our table.
Example
She was fired for refusing to be obsequious to her boss.
Example
He was always obsequious to those in power.
obsequious Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for obsequious
- servile
- fawning
- groveling
- sycophantic
- submissive
Antonyms for obsequious
Phrases with obsequious
excessively obedient or attentive behavior
Example
His obsequious behavior towards his boss made his colleagues uncomfortable.
excessive and insincere praise or compliments given to win favor
Example
Her obsequious flattery towards the CEO was transparent and unconvincing.
a way of behaving that shows excessive obedience or attentiveness
Example
His obsequious manner towards his superiors made him unpopular with his peers.
Origins of obsequious
from Latin 'obsequiosus', meaning 'compliant, obedient'
Summary: obsequious in Brief
'Obsequious' [əbˈsiːkwiəs] is an adjective used to describe someone who is excessively obedient or attentive, often in a servile or fawning manner. It can also refer to attempts to win favor through flattery. Examples include 'The obsequious waiter was constantly hovering around our table.' and 'She was fired for refusing to be obsequious to her boss.' Synonyms include 'servile' and 'submissive,' while antonyms include 'independent' and 'assertive.'
