obedience
uh-BEE-deerns
Obedience (noun) means the act of following instructions, rules, or authority. Example: “The dog's obedience training paid off at the vet.”
noun
1
The act of following instructions, rules, or authority.
"The dog's obedience training paid off at the vet."
"Soldiers are trained to show strict obedience to orders."
"Teachers in the school expect obedience, but they also encourage pupils to ask questions."
How to use obedience
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDoing what you are told, or following rules and authority.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "obeisance" (a gesture of respect, like a bow) — the words are related but mean different things.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
blind obedience
obedience training
demand obedience
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Word forms
- Plural
- obediences
Fill the gap
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The dog's _____ training paid off at the vet.
Etymology
From Old French obedience, from Latin oboedientia, related to obedire, "to obey".
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for obedience
See all rhymes for obedience →Frequently asked questions
What does “obedience” mean?
The word “obedience” means the act of following instructions, rules, or authority. In plain terms, doing what you are told, or following rules and authority.
How do you pronounce “obedience”?
“Obedience” is pronounced uh-BEE-deerns (/oʊˈbidiəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “obedience” in a sentence?
Here is “obedience” used in a sentence: “The dog's obedience training paid off at the vet.”
What is another word for “obedience”?
Words with a similar meaning to “obedience” include submission and hearsomeness.
What is the opposite of “obedience”?
The opposite of “obedience” — its antonyms — are disobedience, defiance, rebellion, violation and control.
What part of speech is “obedience”?
“Obedience” is a noun.
Where does the word “obedience” come from?
The word “obedience” comes from Latin. From Old French obedience, from Latin oboedientia, related to obedire, "to obey".
Is “obedience” a common word?
“Obedience” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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