submissive

[suhb-mis-iv] / səbˈmɪs ɪv /

ADJECTIVE

compliant

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accommodating deferential dutiful meek obedient passive

WEAK

abject acquiescent amenable bowing down comformable complying docile domesticated giving-in humble ingratiating lowly malleable menial nonresistant nonresisting obeisant obeying obsequious patient pliable pliant resigned servile slavish subdued tame tractable uncomplaining unresisting yes yielding

Antonyms

STRONGEST

disobedient immodest

WEAK

fighting intractable resistant unyielding

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.

She said Adusah was shouting and Charmain was submissive.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Its subtitle, about awakening and survival, underlines Mrie’s trajectory from submissive daughter to political actor and skilled observer.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Judges in places like Massachusetts were customarily paid by appropriation of the colonial legislature, which could withhold or delay payment to judges thought too submissive to British interests.

From Slate • Feb. 26, 2025

It's unlikely that women will encounter tradwife content and decide to quit their jobs to be submissive housewives.

From Salon • Dec. 19, 2024

Happy, thoughtful times there in the old study which Jo called ‘the church of one member’, and from which she came with fresh courage, recovered cheerfulness, and a more submissive spirit.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

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