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
  • The protesters named their encampment the Cascadia Free State, a sovereign enclave whose citizens pledged obedience to the transcendent laws of the cosmos.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 July 2026
  • The story follows two genetically identical women who switch identities and consequently expose a hierarchical world based on genetic selection, exploitation and obedience.
    — Roberto Prieto, Variety, 7 July 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
  • 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
  • Less money coming into government coffers also means fewer goodies for the population of Moscow, whose acquiescence Putin desperately needs.
    — Phillips Payson O’Brien, The Atlantic, 30 June 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 Jul. 2026.

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