obsequious
adjective C2
Plain meaning
too eager to please someone powerful, in a weak or fake way
Exam-register meaning
excessively submissive or flattering, especially toward authority
In context
naturalThe assistant’s obsequious praise sounded insincere.
examThe novel satirises officials who are obsequious toward power but harsh toward the poor.
Common collocations
obsequious mannerobsequious flatteryobsequious behaviour
Watch out
Do not use obsequious for simply “polite”; it is negative and suggests servility.
Word family
obsequiously (adverb)obsequiousness (noun)