folgsam

Folgsam is a German adjective meaning obedient, compliant, and dutiful. It describes persons or animals that readily follow instructions, authority, or norms and act in a cooperative, reliable manner. The term carries a positive connotation of steadiness and trustworthiness, but can also imply a degree of passivity depending on context.

Etymology: The word derives from Middle High German folgsam and from the verb folge “to follow” with the suffix -sam, forming an adjective meaning “disposed to follow” or “likely to follow.”

Usage: Folgsam is commonly used of people, especially children, students, workers, or pets, e.g., ein folgsamer Hund, ein folgsamer Schüler. It can appear in religious or moral contexts, as in folgsam vor dem Willen Gottes. The noun Folgsamkeit denotes the quality itself: “the docility or obedience.”

Nuance: Gehorsam denotes explicit obedience to commands or authority, while folgsam emphasizes a cooperative disposition and willingness to follow. In modern usage, folgsam may suggest a balanced, positive ideal of reliability rather than blind compliance; in some contexts it can hint at excessive meekness.

See also: Gehorsam, Gehorsamkeit, Folgsamkeit, Treue.