complaisance
UK: kəmˈpleɪzəns | US: kəmˈpleɪsəns
n. willingness to please others by being polite, agreeable, or accommodating
n. a disposition to yield to the wishes of others
complaisance = com<together/with> + plais<please> + ance<noun suffix>
- com: Prefix meaning "together" or "with" (from Latin cum).
- plais: Root derived from Old French plaisir ("to please"), from Latin placere ("to be agreeable").
- ance: Noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality (from Latin -antia).
Etymology Origin:
The word "complaisance" entered English in the 17th century from French complaisance, which itself stems from complaire ("to please"). The Latin root placere ("to be agreeable") underpins the concept of pleasing others, while the prefix com- emphasizes cooperative or mutual pleasing behavior. Over time, the term evolved to denote a polite, accommodating disposition.
Her complaisance made her a favorite among her colleagues.
He showed remarkable complaisance by agreeing to their demands.
The host’s complaisance ensured the guests felt welcome.
Excessive complaisance can sometimes lead to being taken advantage of.
Diplomatic complaisance often requires balancing assertiveness and tact.