Docile Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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docile

[ˈdɑːsaɪl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in behavior

easily managed or controlled; submissive

Synonyms

compliant, obedient, submissive, tractable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
docile	Use 'docile' to describe someone or something that is easy to teach, manage, or control, often in a positive manner. 'The dog was very docile and eager to learn new tricks ' 'The docile student followed the teacher’s instructions carefully '
obedient	Use 'obedient' to describe someone who follows commands, rules, or instructions, typically in a restrained or disciplined manner. 'The obedient child did everything his parents asked without complaining ' 'Soldiers are expected to be obedient to their superiors '
compliant	Use 'compliant' when referring to someone who readily agrees to follow rules, requests, or standards. The term often implies a positive willingness to adhere. 'The company was compliant with environmental regulations ' 'She was compliant with her doctor's advice and took the medication as prescribed '
submissive	Use 'submissive' when talking about someone who is willing to yield or surrender to the will of another, often in a negative or overly compliant way. 'She was submissive to her domineering boss ' 'In the relationship, he was always the submissive partner '
tractable	Use 'tractable' to describe someone or something that is easily managed or controlled. It often suggests gentleness and manageability without negative connotations. 'The new software is more tractable than the old version ' 'The pony was so tractable that even a novice rider could handle it '

Examples of usage

She had a docile and obedient dog.
The horse was docile and easy to handle.
The students were docile and followed the teacher's instructions.
He remained docile during the entire meeting.
The cat, usually docile, suddenly became aggressive.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in nature

tame; not aggressive

Synonyms

gentle, mild, placid, tame.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
docile	Best for describing someone who is easy to teach or manage, often used for people, animals, or situations where obedience or compliance is highlighted. The new student was docile and adapted quickly to the classroom rules. The docile horse was perfect for beginners.
tame	Often used for animals that have been domesticated and are not wild. Can also describe something that is not exciting or interesting, and in such a context, it may have a slightly negative connotation. The circus featured a tame lion that performed tricks. The movie was rather tame and didn't have any thrilling moments.
gentle	Ideal for describing someone or something that is kind, soft, or tender in nature. Often used in a positive sense, emphasizing care and tenderness. She has a gentle touch that calms even the most anxious patients. The gentle breeze made the summer evening perfect.
mild	Useful for describing something that is moderate, not severe, or not extreme. Commonly used for weather, flavors, or temperament. They enjoyed the mild climate of the coastal town. The sauce was mild, not too spicy.
placid	Best for describing a calm and peaceful demeanor, often used for describing scenes, lakes, or people who are very tranquil and unruffled. The placid lake reflected the mountains perfectly. He remained placid even during the heated argument.

Examples of usage

The docile sheep peacefully grazed in the field.
The docile rabbit allowed the children to pet it.
The docile nature of the animal made it popular as a pet.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

Many breeds of dogs, such as Labradors, are known for being docile, making them great family pets.
Horse trainers often seek docile horses for easy riding and training, as they tend to respond well to commands.
Docile animals are typically more approachable and less likely to display aggressive behavior, which aids in domestication.

Psychology

The trait of being docile can be linked to personality types that are more agreeable and less confrontational.
In psychological research, docility can sometimes be seen in individuals who prefer structured environments over chaotic ones.
Docility may be observed in relation to learning styles, where some prefer guided instruction rather than independent exploration.

Literature

In many stories, docile characters symbolize innocence or moral integrity, often contrasting with more aggressive figures.
The archetype of the docile maiden is common in classic literature, representing passive beauty and virtue.
Notable literary works have explored the balance of docility and assertiveness, illustrating internal conflict and growth.

Cultural Perspectives

In various cultures, the value placed on docility can reflect societal views on obedience and freedom of expression.
Historically, docility in social classes has led to different expectations of behavior and roles within communities.
Cultural narratives sometimes romanticize docility, viewing it as an ideal trait in women, while it may be discouraged in men.

Origin of 'docile'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'docilis', meaning 'easily taught', highlighting the word's connection to learning.
In Middle English, the term evolved from 'docil', related to readiness to learn or follow guidance.
The root 'docere' in Latin means 'to teach,' anchoring the idea of being teachable in the definition of the word.

The word 'docile' originated from the Latin word 'docilis', which means teachable or easily led. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. The concept of being docile has been valued in various contexts throughout history, such as in education and animal training. A docile person or animal is often seen as cooperative and willing to follow instructions.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,343, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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18340 eczema
18341 baffle
18342 heretic
18343 docile
18344 ruthlessly
18345 shaman
18346 interstellar
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