Merriam-Webster Logo
  • Dictionary
  • Thesaurus
  • Scrabble
  • Spanish Central
  • Learner's Dictionary


adjective se·qua·cious \si-ˈkwā-shəs\

Definition of sequacious

  1. 1 archaic :  subservient, tractable

  2. 2 :  intellectually servile




play \-ˈkwa-sə-tē\ noun

Did You Know?

Sequacious is formed from the Latin sequac-, or sequax (which means "inclined to follow" and comes from sequi, "to follow") and the English -ious. The original and now archaic meaning of sequacious was "inclined to follow" or "subservient." Although that meaning might as easily describe someone who willingly dropped into line behind a war leader, or who was unusually compliant or obedient in any sense, the concept gradually narrowed into the image of someone who blindly adopts ideas without much thought. Labeling a person sequacious is not very complimentary, and implies a slavish willingness to adopt a thought or opinion.

Origin and Etymology of sequacious

Latin sequac-, sequax inclined to follow, from sequi

First Known Use: 1643

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up sequacious? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).