Meaning & Definition of word "Obsequious"
Obsequious
/əbˈsiː.kwi.əs/
adjective:
- 1. Ready to obsequiously comply with the wishes of others; overly eager to please or obey.
- Example: The manager's obsequious assistant always agreed with her, no matter how unreasonable her requests were.
- 2. Excessively deferential or ingratiating.
- Example: His obsequious behavior towards the wealthy clients made it clear that he was more interested in their money than their friendship.
- 3. Characterized by servility or subservience.
- Example: The obsequious nature of the attendees at the conference seemed to flatter the keynote speaker excessively.
Etymology
●From Latin 'obsequiosus', meaning 'compliant, obedient'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
obsequious flattery:
Excessive or insincere praise designed to win favor.
obsequious behavior:
Actions that are excessively eager to please or serve others.
Related Words
sycophant:
A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage.
toady:
A person who flatters or defers to others for personal gain.
Slang Meanings of obsequious
Meaning: Brown-noser
● Example Sentence: He's such a brown-noser, always trying to ingratiate himself with the boss.
Meaning: Bootlicker
● Example Sentence: Everyone knows he's a bootlicker, always running errands for the management.