obeisant
Showing deep reverence
Obeisant describes someone showing deep respect or deference, often through a physical gesture like a bow or curtsy.
The word carries a formal, slightly archaic tone: The courtiers remained obeisant before the throne.
It suggests submission or homage, whether sincere or performative.
Showing proper regard
- reverentFeeling profound respect
- courteousShowing respectful consideration
- politeShowing good manners
- deferentialShowing humble submission
courtly · gracious · civil · decorous · genteel · diplomatic · tactful · considerate
Excessively eager to obey
- servileExcessively submissive, lacking independence
- obsequiousServilely attentive to superiors
- meekHumbly unassertive
- docileEasily controlled or taught
sycophantic · fawning · groveling · kowtowing · prostrate · genuflecting · bowing · cringing
Accepting without resistance
- yieldingBending under pressure
- amenableWilling to comply
- biddableReadily obeying commands
- tractableEasily managed or controlled
pliant · malleable · conformable · obliging · accommodating · cooperative · passive · unresisting
respectful
Showing proper regard
deferential · courtly · gracious · civil · decorous · genteel · diplomatic · tactful · considerate · attentive
subservient
Excessively eager to obey
- servileExcessively submissive, lacking independence
- obsequiousServilely attentive to superiors
- meekHumbly unassertive
docile · sycophantic · fawning · groveling · kowtowing · prostrate · genuflecting · bowing · cringing · ingratiating
acquiescent
Accepting without resistance
tractable · pliant · malleable · conformable · obliging · accommodating · cooperative · passive · unresisting · assenting
obeisantdefiant
Openly resisting control
rebellious · insubordinate · disobedient · disrespectful · recalcitrant
obeisantinsolent
Boldly rude and disrespectful
impertinent · sassy · impudent · disrespectful · haughty