Submissive
/səbˈmɪsɪv/
Definitions
Inclined to submit to the authority of others; easily influenced or controlled.
/səbˈmɪsɪv/
Readily yielding to the authority or will of another; meekly obedient.
The child had a submissive demeanor, rarely challenging authority.
💡 Simply: Imagine a friend who always agrees with you, even when they have a different idea. They're being submissive, going along with your plan because they don't want to argue or cause trouble. It's like when your dog rolls over to show you their belly—they are totally submissive.
👶 For kids: When you listen to grown-ups and do what they say because you want to be helpful, that's being submissive.
More Examples
She adopted a submissive stance during the negotiations.
The submissive dog quickly learned commands.
How It's Used
"The therapist observed a submissive attitude in the patient."
"In some social settings, certain individuals adopt a submissive role."
"The submissive partner often defers to the other partner's decisions."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
submissive behavior
Actions that indicate a willingness to accept the control or influence of others.
"The researchers observed submissive behavior in the experimental group."
submissive personality
A general tendency to be compliant and obedient.
"Her submissive personality made her a target for manipulation."
From Latin *submissus* (past participle of *submittere*, 'to submit'), meaning 'yielding, humble, compliant'. The word evolved through Old French.
The word 'submissive' has been used since the late 14th century to describe a yielding or compliant nature.
Memory tip
Think of a puppy lowering its head and tail; it's submissive.
Word Origin
"past participle of submittere (to submit), 'to yield'"