docility

noun

Definition of docilitynext
as in obedience
a readiness or willingness to yield to the wishes of others dogs bred for docility instead of aggressiveness

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of docility Carlson-Wee introduces himself to Wood with the sweet docility of a young boy meeting his hero. — Clara Molot, Vanity Fair, 17 Mar. 2026 The same goes for docility, often characterized as a near neighbor of meekness. — Timothy J. Pawl, The Conversation, 23 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for docility
  1. obedience
  2. submissiveness
  3. acquiescence
Noun
  • Falwell championed a vision of America rooted in obedience to biblical authority and conformity with traditional values, placing him in tension with Enlightenment principles like individual rights, rational inquiry, and free thought.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 25 Aug. 2026
  • One of six K-9s with the sheriff’s office, Koda is trained in narcotics detection, tracking people, article searches and obedience.
    — Marissa Yelenik, Baltimore Sun, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of obedience
Noun
  • Attraction is a function of parentage and looks and submissiveness.
    — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 May 2026
  • But for Coles, his indoctrination to law enforcement has been a different level of submissiveness.
    — Dan Pompei, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025
Definition of submissiveness
Noun
  • With Taiwan’s 2028 elections approaching, sustained American support strengthens voices favoring self-defense over acquiescence to Beijing.
    — Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
  • In any case, the Biden Administration’s grudging acquiescence now looks like the beginning of a pattern of credulous capitulation.
    — David D. Kirkpatrick, New Yorker, 20 July 2026
Definition of acquiescence

Browse Nearby Words

docile
docility
dock
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Cite this Entry

“Docility.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/docility. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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