DOCILITY Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

docility

noun

Definition of docility

as in obedience

a readiness or willingness to yield to the wishes of others dogs bred for docility instead of aggressiveness

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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

Noun

The goal is to reform them rather than get rid of them entirely, which strengthens the party by encouraging obedience and dedication to the party’s cause.

— ANDREW MERTHA, Foreign Affairs, 17 Sep. 2026
The family sent both Pips and Ruth to obedience training with a family friend and professional dog trainer, where Pips began learning sign commands.

— Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2026

Definition of obedience

Noun

But many assumptions that Stratos’ investors or Utah politicians might have had about Box Elder County – about either the acquiescence of its people or the barrenness of its landscape – have been proved wrong over the past few months.

— Melanie Stetson Freeman, Christian Science Monitor, 1 Sep. 2026
Oil has long funded the Gulf’s expensive social contract, in which governments provide citizens with cushy jobs and high-quality services in return for political acquiescence.

— Dina Esfandiary, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of acquiescence

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docile

docility

dock

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“Docility.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/docility. Accessed 25 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of docility

noun

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