subservience

noun

sub·​ser·​vi·​ence səb-ˈsər-vē-ən(t)s 

1

: a subservient or subordinate place or function

2

: obsequious servility

Examples of subservience in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Russia has not budged one inch from its demand for total capitulation and subservience from Kyiv, and has only increased its missile barrage on Ukrainian cities. —Trudy Rubin, Twin Cities, 8 June 2025

In other ways, this passive social robot design aligns with paternalistic standards that link assistance to subservience. —IEEE Spectrum, 3 June 2025

Moore's Michaela is mysterious, commanding, and beyond wealthy, described in the trailer and elsewhere as someone with the ability to charm into subservience. —Randall Colburn, EW.com, 22 May 2025

David Mareuil / Anadolu via Getty Images Signs on a truck denounce Japan's subservience to the U.S. as people take part to the 96th May Day rally on May 1, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. —CBS News, 1 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1676, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

subservience

noun

sub·​ser·​vi·​ence səb-ˈsər-vē-ən(t)s 

1

: a subordinate place or function

2

: obedience befitting one of a menial position