VocabDictionary

servility

/sɜːrˈvɪl.ə.ti/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An excessive willingness to serve or please others; an attitude of submissiveness or fawning obedience.

Example Sentences:
  • The minister's servility toward the dictator was widely criticized by the press.
  • She refused to adopt a tone of servility, preferring to stand her ground with dignity.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “servility”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'servilis' (pertaining to a slave), from 'servus' (slave). It entered Middle English via the Old French 'servilité', reflecting the historical social status of those who were required to show excessive submissiveness to their masters.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'servant' who is being too 'silly' or over-the-top in their eagerness to please their master.

Frequently Asked Questions About “servility

1. What is the meaning of “servility” in English?

In English, servility (noun) is defined as: “An excessive willingness to serve or please others; an attitude of submissiveness or fawning obedience.”.

2. How do you use “servility” in a sentence?

The minister's servility toward the dictator was widely criticized by the press.

3. What are English synonyms of “servility”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “servility”?

Derived from the Latin 'servilis' (pertaining to a slave), from 'servus' (slave). It entered Middle English via the Old French 'servilité', reflecting the historical social status of those who were required to show excessive submissiveness to their masters.