Definitions

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

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

The character’s influence lies in her ability to observe and to be “totally alert” to everything happening around her during the conclave, but not in a submissive way.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 12, 2024

People who apologize unnecessarily can be viewed as weak or submissive; even worse, they may be dismissed as manipulative or insincere.

From Salon • Nov. 29, 2023

I couldn’t afford to be submissive anymore, not with Otto unprotected.

From "Endangered" by Eliot Schrefer

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