Dictionary
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
1
a : of or characteristic of a slave; especially : basely or abjectly servile b archaic : despicable, low
2
archaic : oppressive, tyrannical
3
: copying obsequiously or without originality : imitative
— slav·ish·ly adverb
— slav·ish·ness noun
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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>.
Rhymes with SLAVISH
SLAVISH Defined for Kids
slavish
adjective slav·ish \ˈslā-vish\
Definition of SLAVISH for Kids
: following, copying, or accepting something or someone without questioning <slavish imitators>
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