Servility Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
servility
[sษหvษชlษชti ]
Definitions
in behavior
The quality of being excessively submissive or obedient, often to an obsequious degree, showing a lack of self-respect and dignity.
Synonyms
deference, obsequiousness, subservience.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| servility |
Often used to describe an excessive willingness to serve or please others, typically implying a lack of self-respect or dignity.
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| subservience |
Describes a willingness to obey others unquestioningly, often suggesting a lower or dependent status, and can carry a negative connotation.
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| obsequiousness |
Implies excessive eagerness to serve or please to the point of being insincere or sycophantic, often carrying a negative connotation.
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| deference |
Appropriate in situations where someone shows polite respect and submission to the wishes or judgement of another, often out of respect for their higher status or experience.
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Examples of usage
- He hated the servility of the waitstaff at the restaurant.
- She couldn't stand the servility of her coworkers who constantly sought approval from their boss.
historical context
The state or condition of being a slave or subjected to servitude.
Synonyms
bondage, enslavement, subjection.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| servility |
Use this word when describing a person's excessive willingness to serve or please others, often at the expense of their own dignity. It can imply a lack of self-respect.
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| bondage |
This term is often used to describe a state of being physically restrained or in a condition similar to slavery. It also refers to a lack of freedom or being bound by an obligation.
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| subjection |
Use this word when discussing the act of bringing someone under control or domination, often by force. It can also refer to being under the authority or control of someone else.
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| enslavement |
This word is best used when referring to the act of making someone a slave or the state of being a slave. It carries a very negative connotation and implies severe oppression.
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Examples of usage
- The servility of the peasants towards their feudal lord was enforced by law.
- The servility of the conquered people under the rule of the empire was evident in their daily lives.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Often linked to low self-esteem, individuals displaying this behavior may sacrifice their own happiness to please others.
- People who exhibit such behavior might believe that their worth is determined by how much they can serve others.
- This tendency can lead to unhealthy relationships, where one party feels taken advantage of.
Political Science
- Historically, servility has been associated with authoritarian regimes, where individuals suppress their own voices to conform to authority.
- In discussions about democracy, promoting assertiveness is seen as vital to counteracting servile tendencies in societies.
- People who exhibit servility often support leaders who dictate rather than listen to the populace.
Literature
- In many classic novels, characters exhibiting servility often contrast with rebellious heroes, highlighting themes of freedom versus oppression.
- Shakespeareโs works frequently explore the dynamics of power, with servant characters displaying varying degrees of servility.
- Dystopian literature often critiques servility, portraying how it can lead to a loss of individuality and moral integrity.
Sociology
- Cultural norms can pressure individuals into servility, especially in hierarchical societies where obedience is valued over autonomy.
- Gender dynamics sometimes play a role, as traditional roles may expect women to be more accommodating and subservient.
- The prevalence of servility can indicate social inequalities, where less powerful groups feel they must please those in authority to survive.
Origin of 'servility'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'servilis', which means 'of a servant'.
- It has roots in 'servus', meaning 'slave', highlighting a relationship of extreme submission.
- The term first appeared in English during the late 15th century, adding a layer of social critique to its meaning.
The word 'servility' originates from the Latin word 'servilis,' meaning 'of a slave.' Its usage in English dates back to the mid-16th century. The concept of servility has been prevalent in various societies throughout history, often associated with power dynamics and social hierarchies.
See also: servant, server, serveware, service, serviette, servile, servingware, subservience, subservient, subserviently.