obsequious

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/əbˈsiː.kwi.əs/
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Excessively eager to please, praise, or obey someone powerful.
Practice using obsequious in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • She found his obsequious compliments embarrassing.
  • His obsequious manner concealed resentment.
  • The obsequious waiter praised every choice.
  • The aide was obsequious toward the minister.
  • They refused to give the director an obsequious welcome.

Similar words

fawning
sycophantic
servile

Meanings

Excessively deferential

adjective
behaviour
formal
Criticizes behaviour that flatters or submits to someone in authority too eagerly.

Examples

  • The obsequious waiter praised every choice.
  • She found his obsequious compliments embarrassing.
  • The aide was obsequious toward the minister.
  • His obsequious manner concealed resentment.
  • They refused to give the director an obsequious welcome.

Similar words

servile
fawning
sycophantic

Etymology

From Latin obsequiosus, compliant, based on obsequi, to comply or follow.

FAQ

What does obsequious mean?

Obsequious means excessively eager to please or obey.

When is obsequious used?

It often describes behaviour toward a powerful person.

How does obsequious differ from polite?

Polite can be sincere and appropriate; obsequious is excessive and disapproving.

How is obsequious used in a sentence?

The obsequious waiter praised every choice.

Is obsequious formal?

Yes, it is a formal, disapproving word.

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