Meekness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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meekness
[ˈmiːknəs ]
Definition
showing humility
Meekness is a trait of being submissive or compliant, often associated with gentleness and humility. It involves a willingness to yield or surrender without resistance, showing a lack of aggression or assertiveness.
Synonyms
gentleness, humility, submissiveness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| meekness |
Meekness can be used when describing someone who is very quiet, gentle, and unwilling to argue or express strong opinions. It often implies a lack of assertiveness.
|
| humility |
Humility is appropriate when describing someone who is humble, recognizes their limitations, and does not boast about their achievements. It is often used in a positive light.
|
| gentleness |
Gentleness is best used when referring to someone who is kind, mild, and caring in their actions and speech, often in a positive way.
|
| submissiveness |
Submissiveness is commonly used in a more negative context where someone easily yields to others' will or authority, often to an excessive or unhealthy degree.
|
Examples of usage
- He demonstrated meekness by accepting criticism without retaliation.
- Her meekness was mistaken for weakness by those who underestimated her.
- The teacher praised the student's meekness in handling difficult situations.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Old English 'mēcce,' which means gentle or mild.
- Ancient texts often associated meekness with strength of character, implying that true power lies in restraint.
- Religious teachings frequently highlight meekness as a virtue, particularly in the teachings of Buddhism and Christianity.
Psychology
- Studies show that individuals who exhibit meekness may experience lower stress levels due to their non-confrontational approach.
- Meekness can enhance relationships, as it promotes empathy and understanding, fostering stronger connections with others.
- The personality trait is linked to emotional intelligence, suggesting that those who are meek often understand others' feelings well.
Literature
- In literature, meek characters often serve as moral guides, demonstrating the power of humility and kindness.
- Classic works often portray the meek as heroic figures who triumph through wisdom rather than might.
- In many fairy tales and fables, the meek and gentle characters often outsmart and overcome more aggressive foes.
Pop Culture
- Meekness is celebrated in various songs and movies where the main character's quiet strength ultimately leads to their victory.
- In contemporary discussions, meekness is sometimes misunderstood as weakness, yet many advocate for its recognition as a powerful personal trait.
- Social media influencers often discuss the value of meekness as a counterbalance to the often aggressive online behavior seen today.
Philosophy
- Philosophers have long debated the meaning of meekness, weighing its implications on morality and ethics.
- It is often regarded as a sign of wisdom, suggesting that those who practice meekness possess a deeper understanding of life's challenges.
- Many philosophical traditions view meekness as essential for a peaceful society, promoting harmony over conflict.
Origin of 'meekness'
The word 'meekness' originated from Middle English 'mekenesse', which came from Old Norse 'mikil', meaning 'great' or 'much'. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent a humble and gentle demeanor. Meekness has been valued in various religious and philosophical traditions as a virtue of moral character.