C1adverbformalsocietypsychology
US/ˈdɑː.səl.i/
UK/ˈdəʊ.saɪl.li/
in a quiet, obedient way, without arguing or trying to resist
In context
The children followed the teacher docilely, without a single complaint along the way.
He docilely accepted the new rules, although he disagreed with most of them.
The horse stood docilely while the vet examined its leg.
Words that go with docilely
verb + adverb
- follow docilelyThe crowd followed the guide docilely through the gates.
- accept docilelyShe docilely accepted the decision, which surprised everyone.
- obey docilelyThe soldiers obeyed docilely, too tired to argue.
- nod docilelyHe nodded docilely and went back to his desk.
adverb + verb
- docilely agreeEmployees docilely agree to whatever the manager proposes.