Obsequious

C2 16+

Pronunciation: /əbˈsiːkwiəs/

Definitions of obsequious

adjective characterized by or showing servile complaisance or deference; fawning

Example Sentences

A1 The waiter was obsequious, always ready to fulfill any request with a smile.

A2 She found his obsequious behavior towards his boss to be quite annoying.

B1 The politician's obsequious attitude towards the wealthy donors was evident during the fundraiser.

B2 The obsequious assistant constantly praised the manager in hopes of getting a promotion.

C1 The obsequious flattery from the salesperson made the customer uncomfortable.

C2 Her obsequious behavior towards authority figures was seen as insincere by her colleagues.

Examples of obsequious in a Sentence

formal The obsequious servant eagerly awaited his master's next command.

informal She always acts so obsequious around her boss, it's kind of annoying.

slang I can't stand how obsequious he is, always sucking up to the teacher.

figurative The politician's obsequious behavior towards the wealthy donors was transparent to everyone.

Grammatical Forms of obsequious

past tense

obsequioused

plural

obsequiouses

comparative

more obsequious

superlative

most obsequious

present tense

obsequious

future tense

will be obsequious

perfect tense

have been obsequious

continuous tense

is being obsequious

singular

obsequious

positive degree

obsequious

infinitive

to be obsequious

gerund

obsequiousing

participle

obsequioused

Origin and Evolution of obsequious

First Known Use: 0015 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'obsequious' originated from the Latin word 'obsequiosus', which means compliant or obedient.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe someone who was obedient or compliant, the word 'obsequious' has evolved to have a negative connotation, implying excessive or insincere flattery.