docile
What does "docile" mean?
The word "docile" describes someone or something that is easily managed, handled, or trained. It carries the mental image of a creature or person that is gentle, willing to listen, and lacks any rebellious or aggressive spirit. It is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe animals, students, or people who follow instructions without resistance. While it can imply a pleasant, cooperative nature, it can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being overly submissive or lacking independence.
"docile" in conversation
Discussing a pet
Is your new puppy difficult to train?
Is your new puppy difficult to train?
Not at all, he's incredibly docile and listens to every command.
Not at all, he's incredibly docile and listens to every command.
Used to emphasize a pet's calm and obedient temperament.
Workplace critique
We need more initiative from the team this year.
We need more initiative from the team this year.
Agreed. We have a docile staff, but they rarely challenge the status quo.
Agreed. We have a docile staff, but they rarely challenge the status quo.
Here, docile implies a lack of assertiveness.
"docile" in a sentence
The sheep was docile enough for the children to pet.
The sheep was docile enough for the children to pet.
He became a docile employee who never questioned his supervisor's decisions.
He became a docile employee who never questioned his supervisor's decisions.
The once-fierce warrior had grown docile in his old age, preferring peace to conflict.
The once-fierce warrior had grown docile in his old age, preferring peace to conflict.
