meekness

[ meek-nis ]

noun

1. the quality of being patient or quiet in nature:

   The theme of her sermon was that quietness and meekness are the beginning of wisdom.

2. the quality of being overly submissive:

   Several speakers criticized the government for its meekness when confronted with threats.

Other Words From

• o·ver·meek·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of meekness¹

meek ( def ) + -ness ( def )

Example Sentences

He's like a Jordan Peterson, soft-spoken, promising a new future for men who he thinks has been marginalized by the culture, yet certain that his impression of meekness will help him garner the most power.

From Salon

Even musical theater titans like Rodgers and Berlin succumbed to harmonic meekness and rhythmic sclerosis as they approached their 70s.

From New York Times

“Stonewalling” doesn’t sentimentalize or squeeze tears for Lynn, who, for all her meekness, naivete and often-foolish decisions, is tough enough to have long ago waived her right to self-pity.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s been injured by human hands, so it will be wary. But don’t be fooled by its meekness. Its heart is pure evil. There is no humanity left in him.”

From Literature

“In the course of this intercession, the Lord quietly bestows the spirit of meekness that is ready to understand, accept, hope and risk, notwithstanding any misunderstandings that might result.”

From New York Times