Obey

Definition

Obey refers to the act of complying with a command, order, or law, or submitting to the authority of another. It is primarily used as a verb in both literal and figurative contexts.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /oʊˈbeɪ/
• Respelling: oh-BAY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əʊˈbeɪ/
• Respelling: oh-BAY

Etymology

The word "obey" originates from Old French "obeir," which comes from Latin "obedire," meaning "to listen to" or "to submit to," derived from "ob-" (toward) and "audire" (to hear).

Derivatives

• Obedience (noun)
• Obedient (adjective)
• Obeisance (noun)
• Disobey (verb)
• Obediently (adverb)

Synonyms

• Comply
• Follow
• Submit

Antonyms

• Disobey
• Defy
• Resist

Usage

The term "obey" is often used in contexts involving rules, commands, or authority. For example, "You must obey the traffic laws" or "The dog obeys its owner's commands."

Related Terms

• Authority: The power to enforce rules or give orders.
• Compliance: The act of conforming to a rule or law.
• Submission: The act of yielding to authority or control.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To comply with a command or law: Indicates following an instruction or adhering to a rule.
  • Example: "Citizens are required to obey the laws of the land."
• To submit to authority: Refers to yielding to the control or direction of another.
  • Example: "He obeyed his teacher without hesitation."
• To follow the guidance or rules of: Describes adherence to moral, spiritual, or ethical principles.
  • Example: "She obeyed her conscience and did the right thing."