Obedience
oʊˈbiːdiəns
Definitions
The act or state of following orders, rules, or commands.
oʊˈbiːdiəns
The act of complying with a command, request, or law or submission to another's authority.
The dog's obedience to its trainer was impressive.
💡 Simply: Imagine your mom tells you to clean your room. Obedience is when you actually do it because you respect her and understand the rule.
👶 For kids: Doing what you're told by someone who's in charge, like a parent or teacher.
More Examples
Children learn obedience through consistent guidance and discipline.
A high level of obedience is required in the military.
How It's Used
"The soldiers were praised for their obedience to orders."
"The church emphasized obedience to God's commandments."
"Citizens are expected to show obedience to the law."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
blind obedience
Unquestioning obedience, often without understanding or critical thought.
"The cult demanded blind obedience from its followers."
From Middle English `obediens`, from Old French `obeissance`, from Latin `obedientia`, from `obediens` ('obeying', 'compliant') and `ob-` ('to') + `audire` ('to hear').
The term 'obedience' has a long history in English, appearing frequently in religious texts and legal documents, emphasizing the importance of following divine and secular rules.
Memory tip
Think of 'obey' and 'submission'. Obedience is about following what you're told.
Word Origin
"To listen attentively and comply"