Submissive Meaning and Definition
Submissive
Pronunciation
/ˈsʌbsmiːv/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who willingly accepts or responds to authority or control, often without questioning or challenging it.
Examples
- The activist was a submissive member of the group, following the leader’s instructions without hesitation.
- She was a submissive wife, always deferring to her husband’s opinions.
Synonyms
- Obedient
- Loyal
- Compliant
Antonyms
- Dominant
- Rebellious
- Tyrannical
Etymology
The word “submissive” comes from the Latin words “sub” meaning “under” and “mittere” meaning “to send”. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe a person who is willing to obey others.
Usage Notes
When using the word “submissive”, it is essential to consider the context in which it is being used. It can be both positive and negative, depending on the situation. For example, a submissive partner in a relationship may be seen as loyal and devoted, while a submissive employee may be seen as weak or lacking confidence.
Additional Information
Submissive individuals may exhibit certain characteristics, such as a strong desire to please others, a lack of assertiveness, or an inability to express their own needs and desires. On the other hand, submissiveness can also be a coping mechanism for those who have been traumatized or abused, allowing them to avoid conflict or maintain a sense of safety. Understanding the complexities of submissiveness is crucial for promoting healthy relationships and fostering personal growth.
In some BDSM communities, submissiveness is a desired trait, where individuals willingly engage in power exchange and role-playing. However, this context should not be confused with the more general use of the term, which can have negative connotations.
Research suggests that submissiveness can be learned behavior, developed as a result of social or environmental factors. This means that individuals can change their behavior and develop greater assertiveness and confidence with practice and support.
Cultural References
The concept of submissiveness is explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. For example, in the novel “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood, the protagonist Offred is a submissive handmaid, forced to obey the rules of a patriarchal society. Similarly, in the TV series “ER”, the character Catherine Martin is a submissive nurse, struggling to assert herself in a male-dominated workplace.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Submissive behavior”
- “Submissive personality”
- “Too submissive”
Related Words or Phrases
- Obedience
- Loyalty
- Compliance
Collocations
- Submissive partner
- Submissive employee
- Submissive child
Frequency of Use
The word “submissive” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of around 0.01% in the Corpus of Contemporary American English (COCA). However, its usage can vary depending on the context and the speaker.
Common Misspellings
- submissiv
- submissivey
- submisiv