Definition

Showing respect and willingness to obey; being polite and submissive in behavior.

Example

The obeisant servant bowed deeply before the king.

Conversation

I noticed how obeisant he was towards the manager during the meeting.

Yeah, he really knows how to show respect in the workplace.

It's interesting to see people who are so obeisant to authority figures.

True, it definitely makes a difference in how things get done.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Obeisant is formed from "obeir" (from Old French, meaning to obey) and the suffix "-ant" (meaning characterized by or performing). The word "obeisant" describes someone who is characterized by obedience or submission.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'performing' ('-ant') the act of 'obeying' ('obeir') — that's why obeisant means being obedient or submissive.

Visually Confused Words