Subservience

usgb/səbˈsɜːrviəns/
noun

The act of obeying someone or doing what they want without any resistance.

She had a deep sense of loyalty and subservience towards her parents.
Visual representation of "subservience" - The act of obeying someone or doing what they want without any resistance.

Often appears as...

  • unquestioning subservience
  • implied subservience
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "subservience"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Not Always Negative

Subservience isn't always bad; it can show respect in certain cultures or contexts.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
In a traditional ceremony, her subservience to the elders was appreciated.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Power Dynamics

Subservience often reflects a power difference where one person feels lower.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
The employee's subservience to the boss made dialogue difficult.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Servitude

Don't confuse subservience with servitude, which is a condition of being a slave.

Illustration for Not Servitude
Despite her subservience, she was an employee, not a servant.
Word comparison image

Compare with

acquiescencecomplianceconformitydependencedocilitymeekobedienceservility
Look up Compare with
Visual representation of the word "Subservience"

Never forget "Subservience"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top