docile
DOSS-uhl
/ˈdɒsaɪl/
Gentle, quiet, and easy to control, train, or teach.
Implies a peaceful, submissive, or cooperative temperament. It does not mean stupid or lazy, but rather willing to accept guidance without resistance.
The story behind the word. Comes from the Latin verb 'docere', which means 'to teach' (the same root that gives us 'doctor' and 'document'). Historically, a 'docile' animal or person was simply someone or something that was 'teachable' or eager to learn.
Word relationships
- submissive: 'Submissive' implies yielding to authority out of fear or dominance, whereas 'docile' suggests a naturally sweet, easy-to-teach disposition.
- tractable: 'Tractable' is a slightly more formal, technical term meaning easy to manage or manipulate.
- unruly: Disobedient, wild, and difficult to control.
- aggressive: Ready to attack or confront; hostile.
Commonly confused with
- tame: 'Tame' means an animal has been trained not to fear humans, while 'docile' describes a naturally gentle and cooperative personality.
Word family
- docility (noun): The quality of being quiet, gentle, and easy to influence or instruct.
Collocations
- docile temperament
- docile creature
- remain docile
Example sentences
- "The golden retriever was chosen for therapy work because of its incredibly docile nature around children." A description of a therapy animal.
- "Despite their massive size, dairy cows are generally docile creatures that enjoy routine." A guide to farm animal temperaments.
Memory hook
Docile sounds like 'do-style'. A docile dog is happy to do whatever style of training you want. Docile means easy to teach (docere).
When not to use
Do not use to describe an animal that is completely unconscious, sedated, or paralyzed; it must be conscious and choosing not to resist.
Fun facts
- The domestic donkey has a reputation for being stubborn, but animal behaviorists note they are actually highly docile and cautious, freezing when they sense danger rather than running.
Related words
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