Subservient Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🙇

Add to dictionary

subservient

[səbˈsɜːrviənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a subordinate position

Willing to obey others unquestionably; submissive.

Synonyms

compliant, docile, obedient, submissive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subservient	Best used when describing a person or behavior that is excessively willing to obey others, often to the point of sacrificing their own interests. It has a negative connotation suggesting a lack of independence or excessive deference. She was so subservient that she never voiced her own opinion during meetings
obedient	Appropriate for situations emphasizing duty or obligation, like children obeying their parents or soldiers following orders. It doesn't inherently carry a negative connotation. The obedient child cleaned his room as soon as his mother asked
compliant	Applies well when talking about following orders, rules, or standards without question but doesn't necessarily imply the same level of negativity as 'subservient'. The company strives to be compliant with all industry regulations
docile	Use this word when describing someone who is easily taught, led, or controlled. It generally suggests a calm and laid-back demeanor without a negative implication of submissiveness. The docile puppy quickly learned the commands his owner taught him
submissive	Best when describing a person who willingly accepts the authority of others, often at the cost of their own preferences or desires. It tends to have a slightly negative tone, indicating a lack of assertiveness. She adopted a submissive role in the relationship, rarely expressing her own needs

Examples of usage

He was always subservient to his boss's orders.
She felt uncomfortable being subservient to someone else's authority.
The subservient assistant never questioned the decisions of her manager.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

serving in a lower capacity

Less important; subordinate.

Synonyms

inferior, lesser, lowly, secondary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subservient	Used in situations where someone is excessively willing to serve or obey someone else, often seen as overly submissive or slavish. She was so subservient to her boss that she never voiced her own opinions
inferior	Used for someone or something that is considered lower in rank, quality, or position. He felt inferior to his colleagues because he didn't have as much experience
lowly	Used to describe someone who has a low social status or simple job, often indicating humility or lack of prestige. He started his career in a lowly position but worked his way up to become CEO
lesser	Often used when comparing two things, where one is considered of lower importance, size, or quality. Out of the two options, this one has a lesser impact on the environment
secondary	Describes something of second-level importance or not primary, often used in contexts like education or importance. Her secondary goal was to improve her fitness, while her primary goal was losing weight

Examples of usage

The subservient role of the supporting character in the play.
Her subservient role within the organization limited her opportunities for advancement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Being subservient can relate to low self-esteem, where individuals might feel their needs are less important than others'.
This behavior can stem from upbringing; people taught to prioritize others might develop submissive tendencies.
In relationships, subservience can lead to unhealthy dynamics, where one partner dominates decision-making.

Pop Culture

Many characters in literature and film, such as loyal servants or sidekicks, embody subservient traits, often for comedic or dramatic effect.
Classic literature often explores themes of subservience, as seen in works like 'Jane Eyre', where the concept is crucial to character development.
In reality TV, contestants are often portrayed as subservient to stronger personalities, influencing viewer perceptions of social hierarchies.

Cultural Perspectives

In some cultures, subservience is seen as a virtue, emphasizing loyalty and respect for authority, particularly in family hierarchies.
Conversely, many modern societies value assertiveness and self-advocacy, often criticizing overly subservient behavior as unhealthy.
Gender roles often intersect with subservience, as societal expectations can pressure women to be more accommodating than men.

Historical Context

Throughout history, social classes were often defined by levels of servitude, with those at the bottom expected to be subservient to the elite.
The abolition of slavery highlighted the struggles against subservient roles and paved the way for discussions on personal autonomy.
In totalitarian regimes, the concept of subservience can become institutionalized, with individuals expected to comply without question.

Origin of 'subservient'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'subserviens', meaning 'serving in addition' or 'helping', showing its roots in assistance.
In historical contexts, it referred to individuals or classes subordinate to others, especially in feudal societies.
The prefix 'sub-' means under, suggesting a position beneath or lower than someone else.

The word 'subservient' originated from the Latin word 'subserviens', which means 'being subject to'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The term has evolved to describe someone or something that is obedient, compliant, or in a lower position of authority.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,450, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
15447 extermination
15448 locomotion
15449 whirled
15450 subservient
15451 reassurance
15452 compromising
15453 hateful
...