adjective

obsequious

ub-SEE-kwee-us/əbˈsiːkwiəs/

Excessively eager to please someone in authority.

The obsequious subordinate offers more coffee despite the executive's full cup.

An office subordinate fawns over a senior executive, bowing deeply and eagerly offering another coffee even while she holds a full cup and raises a dismissive hand.

Etymology

obLatinafter

+sequLatinto follow

+iousLatinfull of, characterized by

“Following after” became accommodating oneself to another person’s will. What first described dutiful service acquired a disparaging sense: following someone’s wishes so eagerly that it becomes fawning.

In context

The A.V. Club5:44

Vivid, don't be obsequious! (laughter)

The cast of Belgravia on regret and the art of social climbing

More examples

Her obsequious praise of the supervisor makes her coworkers uncomfortable.
You can disagree with your boss respectfully without being obsequious.
The candidate's obsequious manner toward wealthy donors worries voters.

Forms

obsequious

obsequiously adverb — With excessive eagerness to please someone powerful.

obsequiousness noun — Excessive eagerness to please someone in authority.

Similar words

servile: Emphasizes submissiveness and lack of independence or dignity.
sycophantic: Emphasizes insincere flattery intended to gain favor or advantage.
fawning: Emphasizes exaggerated affection or admiration, not necessarily toward authority.