Definition

Describing someone who is overly willing to obey others or serve them, often to the point of being submissive or lacking independence.

Example

The subservient assistant always followed the manager's orders without question.

Conversation

I don't like how some people are so subservient to their bosses.

Yeah, it can be uncomfortable to watch.

I believe it's important to stand up for yourself instead of being subservient.

Absolutely! Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subservient → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under) and "servire" (meaning to serve). The word describes someone who serves in a subordinate position or is submissive to others.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'under' ('sub-') another person and 'serving' ('servire') them, which helps you remember that subservient means being in a position of serving or obeying.

Visually Confused Words