Definitions

obey

[oh-bey] / oʊˈbeɪ /

VERB

conform, give in

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accept adhere to carry out comply embrace execute heed live by observe surrender

STRONG

accede accord acquiesce agree answer assent concur discharge follow fulfill keep mind perform respond serve submit

WEAK

abide by act upon be loyal to be ruled by bow to do as one says do one's bidding do one's duty do what is expected do what one is told get in line give way hold fast knuckle under play second fiddle take orders toe the line

Antonyms

STRONGEST

decline deny disregard forget ignore leave miss neglect overlook refuse reject

STRONG

argue ask differ disagree disallow disapprove disobey dispute dissent fail object oppose protest question

WEAK

mutiny rebel

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Somehow we have lost the basic notion of an orderly society that requires us to obey police orders to get back on the sidewalk.

From The Wall Street Journal

“In the moment when you are dealing with law enforcement officials, you obey their orders so you can get home safely,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

She had barely been able to stand when Clara found her, but now when she tried her feet, they obeyed her.

From Literature

“The better enforcement technology makes folks obey speed limits, rather than drivers suddenly wanting to drive slowly. Same thing with office attendance.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Pointedly, there was Timothy Snyder’s tidy pocket-sized handbook “On Tyranny” filled with 20 short but fortifying chapters of practical wisdom like “Do not obey in advance,” “Defend institutions” and “Believe in truth.”

From Los Angeles Times

obey

Example Sentences

Related Words