submissiveness

noun

Definition of submissivenessnext
as in obedience
a readiness or willingness to yield to the wishes of others his uncharacteristic submissiveness to the doctor's advice must mean he's really sick

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 submissiveness 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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for submissiveness
  1. obedience
  2. acquiescence
  3. docility
Noun
  • In China, Xi is trying to bend technology toward obedience and growth.
    — Evan Osnos, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Catherine Coldstream entered a Carmelite monastery at age 24, and lived a life of prayer and obedience for 12 years.
    — Terry Gross, NPR, 24 July 2026
Definition of obedience
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
Noun
  • 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
Definition of docility

Browse Nearby Words

submissively
submissiveness
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Cite this Entry

“Submissiveness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/submissiveness. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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