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.

When the next president swears an oath to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States,” he undertakes both to obey the Constitution and to remove threats to it.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

Instead of assuming a detailed theory from the start, scientists begin with a few broad principles they believe nature must obey and then determine what laws naturally emerge.

From Science Daily • May 19, 2026

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

From Salon • May 3, 2026

Beginning July 1, California law enforcement agencies may issue notices of AV noncompliance when an autonomous vehicle doesn’t obey traffic laws.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

“It is your concern. I have my orders and must obey them.”

From "Nectar in a Sieve" by Kamala Markandaya

Vocabulary lists containing obey

"Nadia the Willful"

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"Rachel the Clever"

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"The New England Primer"

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