Slavish

Adjective

Definition: Showing or characterized by excessive willingness to serve or please others, often to the point of submissiveness.

Synonyms: Servile, Submissive, Obedient, Sycophantic

Antonyms: Independent, Assertive, Rebellious

Examples:
  • The slavish devotion of the followers to their leader was concerning.
  • She lived a slavish life, always doing what others expected of her.
Mnemonics:
  • Slavish sounds similar to "slave-ish", which can remind you of the meaning of submissiveness and servitude.
  • Think of someone trying to please others like a servant, always doing what they are told.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "slavish" comes from the Middle English word "slauissh" which meant characteristic of Slavs, from the Old French word "esclave" meaning slave.

Historical Usage:

Initially used to describe the Slavic people as slaves during the medieval period. Over time, it evolved to describe a submissive or overly obedient behavior.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Slavish adherence"

Explanation:

Refers to blindly following rules or principles without questioning or independent thinking.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "slavish" with "Slavic"

Explanation:

"Slavish" refers to a submissive or subservient attitude, while "Slavic" refers to the ethnic or linguistic group of Slavic people. They have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.

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