docility

noun

Definition of docilitynext
as in obedience
a readiness or willingness to yield to the wishes of others dogs bred for docility instead of aggressiveness

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of docility Carlson-Wee introduces himself to Wood with the sweet docility of a young boy meeting his hero. — Clara Molot, Vanity Fair, 17 Mar. 2026 The same goes for docility, often characterized as a near neighbor of meekness. — Timothy J. Pawl, The Conversation, 23 Feb. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for docility
  1. obedience
  2. submissiveness
  3. acquiescence
Noun
  • Now, the Department has decided that obedience supersedes all else, requiring us to abdicate our legal and ethical obligations in favor of directions from Washington.
    — Eyal Press, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026
  • The goal is to reform them rather than get rid of them entirely, which strengthens the party by encouraging obedience and dedication to the party’s cause.
    — ANDREW MERTHA, Foreign Affairs, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of obedience
Noun
  • Attraction is a function of parentage and looks and submissiveness.
    — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 May 2026
  • But for Coles, his indoctrination to law enforcement has been a different level of submissiveness.
    — Dan Pompei, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025
Definition of submissiveness
Noun
  • Their acquiescence to this encroachment on their powers has made these politicians increasingly dependent on a dysfunctional national government.
    — Editorial Board, Washington Post, 14 Sep. 2026
  • But many assumptions that Stratos’ investors or Utah politicians might have had about Box Elder County – about either the acquiescence of its people or the barrenness of its landscape – have been proved wrong over the past few months.
    — Melanie Stetson Freeman, Christian Science Monitor, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of acquiescence

Browse Nearby Words

docile
docility
dock
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Cite this Entry

“Docility.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/docility. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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