servile

/ˈsɜː(ɹ)ˌvaɪl/

servile

English Adj Top 45,140
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Definition

Excessively eager to please; obsequious.

Etymology

From Middle English servyle, from Old French servil, servile, from Latin servīlis, from servus (“slave”). By surface analysis, serve + -ile.

Example Sentences

  • "British “subjects” (not citizens, note) are just that: gleefully servile to the monarchy’s institutionalised inequality..."
  • "servile flattery    servile obedience"
  • "Even fortune rules no more, O servile land!"
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