meek

UK: miːk | US: miːk

Definition
  1. adj. gentle, submissive, or easily imposed on

  2. adj. patient and mild in nature; not inclined to anger or resentment

Structure

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Etymology

The word "meek" traces back to Old Norse mjúkr (soft, gentle) and Proto-Germanic mūkaz. It entered Middle English as meke, retaining its core meaning of gentleness or humility. Unlike many English words with Latin or Greek roots, "meek" is a Germanic residue term, evolving without clear prefix/root/suffix divisions. Its modern sense of "humble" or "unassertive" reflects a cultural association between softness and submission, notably in religious contexts (e.g., "the meek shall inherit the earth").

Examples
  1. Despite his strength, he had a meek demeanor.

  2. She spoke in a meek voice, barely audible.

  3. The meek student never argued with the teacher.

  4. His meek response surprised those expecting defiance.

  5. In the story, the meek servant becomes the true hero.