Pronunciation: [sˈɜːfɪʃ] (IPA) 
When it comes to the spelling of the word "serfish," it may seem odd that there is an "f" instead of the more commonly used "v" in the word's root "serf." However, this spelling represents the historical pronunciation of the word in English, which used to have a voiced "f" sound instead of the modern "v" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈsɜːrfɪʃ/, with the "f" representing the voiced labiodental fricative.
Serfish is an adjective that describes a person or behavior characterized by servility, submissiveness, or obsequiousness. It refers to someone who displays a slavish or subservient attitude, like that of a servant or a slave. The term is derived from the word "serf," which historically referred to a class of agricultural laborers bound to work on a feudal lord's estate.
A serfish individual exhibits excessive deference or obedience to someone in a position of authority, often to the point of sacrificing their own dignity or self-respect. They may lack assertiveness and independence, tending to follow orders blindly without questioning or challenging them. Serfish behavior implies a willingness to submit to another's will, regardless of reason or moral implications.
The term can also describe actions or characteristics that resemble those of a serf or servant. For example, someone who performs menial tasks without complaint, demonstrating a lack of ambition or desire for personal growth, can be considered serfish in their approach to work.
Due to its negative connotations, the usage of "serfish" is often associated with criticizing or demeaning individuals for their subservient behavior or mindset. It highlights the contrast between a person who mindlessly follows orders without considering their own worth and someone who shows independence and initiative.
The word "serfish" is derived from the Middle English word "service", meaning "servant". It comes from the Old French "serviche", which ultimately traces back to the Latin word "servus", meaning "slave" or "servant". The suffix "-ish" is added to "service" to form "serfish", signifying the quality or characteristic of being like a servant or slave in behavior, appearance, or attitude.
