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.

He then threatened their careers and pensions if they did not obey.

From Salon • May 3, 2026

"Australia's world-leading social media laws are not failing. But big tech is failing to obey the laws," Communications Minister Anika Wells told reporters at the time.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

“Always obey posted signals, stop when required, and ensure it is safe to proceed before crossing tracks,” the Police Department said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

“When asked to generate images, it will refuse to produce anything illegal, as the operating principle for Grok is to obey the laws of any given country or state.”

From MarketWatch • Mar. 16, 2026

Whatever they said was taken as something to be heeded by my people, who repeatedly analyzed it and struggled to precisely obey their wishes.

From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals

Vocabulary lists containing obey

"Nadia the Willful"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Rachel the Clever"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"The New England Primer"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!