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Excessively eager to please or obey; overly submissive.
synonyms:sycophanticservile
The word 'obsequious' originates from the Latin word 'obsequiosus', which means 'compliant' or 'servile', derived from 'obsequium' meaning 'compliance' or 'deference'.
Obsequious is often used in social contexts, particularly to describe someone who is overly fawning or ingratiating, making it more common in literary or formal discussions rather than everyday conversation.
While not a term encountered daily, it appears in literature and discussions about social behavior, making it somewhat familiar but not commonly used in casual conversation.
The obsequious waiter hovered around the table, eager to fulfill every request.
His obsequious manner made him unpopular among his peers, who preferred honesty over flattery.
She found his obsequious compliments insincere and grating.
The adjective 'obsequious' paints a vivid picture of someone who is not just eager to please but does so in a manner that can seem exaggerated or insincere. With roots in Latin, it evokes images of a devoted servant or a sycophant, always ready to flatter those in power. In modern usage, it's often employed to critique behavior that prioritizes approval over authenticity, making one ponder the fine line between politeness and obsequiousness. Whether in literature or everyday conversation, the term offers a playful reminder of the dynamics of power and admiration.