COMPLAISANT Meaning and
Definition
-
Complaisant is an adjective that describes someone who is eager to please or accommodate others. It refers to a person who displays a pleasant and agreeable disposition, often in an attempt to gain favor or avoid conflict. The term can also pertain to someone who willingly goes along with the wishes of others, often without expressing their true feelings or opinions.
A complaisant individual exhibits a high level of politeness and is always ready to help, often going out of their way to assist others. They tend to be flexible and adaptable when it comes to accommodating the needs or desires of others. This accommodating behavior may stem from a desire to maintain harmonious relationships or from an innate tendency to avoid confrontation.
However, being complaisant does not necessarily imply that one lacks personal assertiveness or self-confidence. It is possible for someone to be complaisant while still setting personal boundaries and expressing their viewpoints when necessary. Complaisant individuals often possess good social skills and emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate social situations with ease.
While being complaisant can be seen as a positive trait in many cases, it is important to exercise caution. Overly complaisant behavior, when driven by a fear of conflict or a need to constantly please others, can result in individuals sacrificing their own needs and desires.
-
Pleasing in manners; courteous; civil; polite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for COMPLAISANT
Etymology of COMPLAISANT
The word "complaisant" can be dissected into two parts to better understand its etymology.
The first part, "com-", is a Latin prefix meaning "together" or "with". It is used to signify harmony, unity, or completion when combined with other words.
The second part, "plaisant", derives from the Old French word "plaisant", which means "pleasing" or "agreeable". It further traces its roots back to the Latin word "placentem", which translates to "pleasing" or "gratifying".
Therefore, when these parts are combined, "complaisant" carries the meaning of someone who is accommodating, agreeable, or eager to please others.
Similar spelling words for COMPLAISANT
- complaint,
- complement,
- compiling,
- complexion,
- complacency,
- complaisance,
- Complicating,
- compulsivity,
- complexly,
- complacent,
- complaining,
- completion,
- complainer,
- compliments,
- compliant,
- complain,
- complicated,
- complexity,
- compliance,
- compliancy,
- compulsion,
- complemental,
- complainingly,
- compliment,
- complacence,
- Self-complacent,
- complaintive,
- complicity,
- complainant,
- complication,
- complacently,
- complicate.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
