Meaning & Definition of word "Subservient"
Subservient
/səbˈsərvēənt/
adjective:
- 1. prepared to obey others unquestioningly; submissive.
- Example: The manager was criticized for being too subservient to the demands of the higher-ups.
- 2. serving as a means to an end; subordinate.
- Example: In her subservient role, she ensured that the project's needs were met before her own.
- 3. excessively willing to yield to the wishes or opinions of others.
- Example: His subservient attitude in meetings often led to him being overlooked for leadership roles.
Etymology
●From Latin 'subservientem', present participle of 'subservire', meaning 'to serve closely'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
subservient role:
A position in which one must submit to the authority of another.
subservient to:
Being excessively obedient or willing to serve someone else's interests.
Related Words
serve:
To perform duties or provide services for another.
obey:
To follow commands or requests.
servile:
Having or showing an excessive willingness to serve; lacking independence.
Slang Meanings of subservient
Meaning: Yes-man
● Example Sentence: He's just a yes-man, always so subservient to the boss's whims.
Meaning: Doormat
● Example Sentence: Stop being a doormat; you don't always have to be so subservient.