adjective

obsequious

ub-SEE-kwee-us

Obsequious (adjective) means Excessively eager to please or obey, in a way that seems insincere and self-serving. Example: “An obsequious waiter hovered by the table.”

adjective

Excessively eager to please or obey, in a way that seems insincere and self-serving.

"An obsequious waiter hovered by the table."

How to use obsequious

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCreepily eager to please someone important.

When to use it

Always negative. Calling someone obsequious is an accusation, not a compliment.

Easily confused with

sycophantic → deferential →

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

An _____ waiter hovered by the table.

Etymology

From Latin "obsequiosus," compliant, from "obsequi" (to comply with).

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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fawning servile sycophantic ingratiating

Antonyms

assertive blunt

Related words

money frank pointed sharp pushing aggressive blunt dull

Rhymes for obsequious

yous nous pious joyous heinous ominous curious anxious copious tenuous tedious spurious

See all rhymes for obsequious →

Frequently asked questions

What does obsequious mean?

Fawning — so eager to please someone powerful that it comes across as insincere. It is always disapproving.

What is the difference between obsequious and polite?

Politeness is proportionate and sincere. Obsequiousness is excessive and self-interested — flattery aimed at gaining favour rather than showing respect.

What is the meaning of obsequious?

"obsequious" (adjective) means excessively eager to please or obey, in a way that seems insincere and self-serving.

What is another word for obsequious?

Other words for "obsequious" include fawning, servile, sycophantic, ingratiating.

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