obliging
UK: /əˈblaɪdʒɪŋ/ | US: /əˈblaɪdʒɪŋ/
adj. willing to do favors or help others; accommodating
adj. showing a cheerful readiness to assist
obliging = oblige<to bind or compel> + ing<adjective suffix>
- oblige: From Latin obligare (ob- "toward" + ligare "to bind"), meaning "to bind by duty or favor."
- ing: A suffix forming present participles or adjectives indicating a characteristic or action.
Etymology Origin:
The word "obliging" traces back to the Latin obligare, combining ob- (expressing direction) and ligare (to bind). Originally, it implied being bound by duty or moral constraint. Over time, it softened into a sense of willingness to help, reflecting a shift from external obligation to internal courtesy. The -ing suffix transforms the verb into an adjective, emphasizing a habitual or inherent trait.
She was always obliging, offering to carry groceries for her elderly neighbors.
The hotel staff were exceptionally obliging, catering to every guest’s request.
His obliging nature made him popular among colleagues.
Despite her busy schedule, she remained obliging and patient.
The obliging waiter adjusted the order without hesitation.