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Definition of slavish

slavish

/ˈsleɪ.vɪʃ/
sla · vish
Adverb:slavishly
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slavish Lexical Profile

slavish Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Showing no attempt at originality, constructive interpretation, or development; excessively imitative or strict in following rules.

Example

"The art critic dismissed the young painter's latest exhibition as a slavish imitation of the French Impressionists."

2

Relating to, characteristic of, or excessively submissive and obedient like a slave.

Example

"The tyrannical manager demanded slavish devotion from his staff, discouraging anyone from questioning his decisions."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for slavish

• Nearby Words

slaver
slavery
slaveship
slavish
slavishly
slaw
slay

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English in the late 14th century from the noun 'slave' combined with the adjectival suffix '-ish'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Slavish. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/slavish
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