Obsequious: Definition & Meaning for the SAT 🙇‍♂️

Ever met someone who's so eager to please that it makes you cringe? That's OBSEQUIOUS.

A Request: Help me shape the direction of the SAT Word of the Day

I’ve been testing out different formats and new features.

I am also working on adding regular quizzes. I’ve also considered setting up batches of words in Quizlet, Gimkit, or Blooket, for other teachers out there who use these popular gamification tools.

Could you please leave me some feedback about the direction you’d like to see me take with the SAT words? I’ve got tons of data and tools, and hope to serve my learning community in the best way possible. Please comment below, or just reply to the email you received. 🙏

Hey there, SAT vocab learner!

Today we're learning the word obsequious, which we subjectively rate a solid 4 out of 5 in difficulty. It's a must-know for SAT, GRE, and ACT.

ℹ️ Part of speech of obsequious

obsequious is an ADJECTIVE.

🗣️ Pronunciation of obsequious

obsequious is pronounced /əb.ˈsiː.kwi.əs/ or uhb-SEE-kwee-uhs.

📚️ Definition of obsequious

obsequious means excessively eager to please or obey; servile. Example: an obsequious salesperson.

📰 Examples

Here are some examples of obsequious used in a sentence:

• Fátima found her new colleague's obsequious behavior towards the manager both embarrassing and insincere.

• Despite his talent, Bob's obsequious attitude in team meetings prevented his ideas from being taken seriously.

• The bartender's obsequious compliments made Yuki uncomfortable and less likely to order a second $22 mocktail.

🧠 Quick vocab quiz on obsequious and past SAT words

New! I am including words from past SAT words. Hope you remember them well.

1. Someone described as obsequious is most likely to be

A) excessively flattering.
B) openly rebellious.
C) quietly indifferent.
D) smugly complacent.
E) mildly annoyed.

2. Which of the following situations best exemplifies obsequious behavior?

A) A student politely disagreeing with a teacher's interpretation of a poem
B) A child throwing a tantrum when denied candy at the supermarket
C) A colleague offering constructive criticism during a project review
D) An intern laughing at all of the boss's witticisms, even the dad jokes
E) A customer service representative calmly handling a complaint

3. Extort most nearly means to

A) praise excessively.
B) distribute evenly.
C) examine thoroughly.
D) obtain by force or threat.
E) speak eloquently.

4. Latter most nearly means

A) former.
B) second mentioned.
C) last in a series.
D) more recent.
E) concluding.

5. Enthrall most nearly means

A) captivate.
B) bore.
C) enslave.
D) release.
E) confuse.

Scroll down for the answer/s.

💁🏼 Tips on using the word obsequious correctly

It's important to note that being obsequious goes beyond mere politeness or respect. The term carries a negative connotation, implying insincerity or an ulterior motive. In literature and film, obsequious characters are often portrayed as sycophants or "yes-men." Be careful not to confuse obsequious with "obliging" or "courteous," which are generally positive traits. Remember, context is key in determining whether behavior crosses the line from respectful to obsequious.

---

How’d we do today?

✅ Quiz answer/s

Answers:

1. A, excessively flattering

2. D, An intern laughing at all of the boss's jokes...

3. D, to obtain by force or threat

4. B, second mentioned

5. A, captivate

That's all for today's SAT word. If you found this helpful, please share it with your study buddies or leave a comment below. Keep expanding that vocabulary, and remember: it's great to be respectful, but there's no need to be obsequious!

SAT MATH: Check out my friend Kyle’s SAT math prep website Tutorllini.

Long-term SAT Verbal classes: Writing courses for grades 6 to 12: Online Writing Courses with me, Erin.