slavish

adjective slav·ish \ˈslā-vish sometimes ˈsla-\

: copying or following someone or something completely without any attempt to be original or independent

Full Definition of SLAVISH

a : of or characteristic of a slave; especially : basely or abjectly servile

b archaic : despicable, low

archaic : oppressive, tyrannical

: copying obsequiously or without originality : imitative

— slav·ish·ly adverb

— slav·ish·ness noun

See slavish defined for English-language learners

See slavish defined for kids

First Known Use of SLAVISH

1565

Related to SLAVISH

Synonyms: apish, canned, emulative, epigonic (or epigonous), formulaic, mimetic, mimic, imitative, unoriginal

Antonyms: archetypal (also archetypical), original

Synonym Discussion of SLAVISH

subservient, servile, slavish, obsequious mean showing or characterized by extreme compliance or abject obedience. subservient implies the cringing manner of one very conscious of a subordinate position <domestic help was expected to be properly subservient>. servile suggests the mean or fawning behavior of a slave <a political boss and his entourage of servile hangers-on>. slavish suggests abject or debased servility <the slavish status of migrant farm workers>. obsequious implies fawning or sycophantic compliance and exaggerated deference of manner <waiters who are obsequious in the presence of celebrities>.