obbediente

Obbediente is an Italian term that functions as both an adjective meaning “obedient” and as a noun meaning “one who obeys.” It is used to describe a person, animal, or system that follows orders, rules, or expectations. As a noun, obbediente can denote a person who obeys, though in modern Italian it is more common to convey the idea with phrases like “una persona obbediente” or with context rather than relying on the bare noun.

Etymology and cognates: The word derives from Latin oboedientem, from ob- (toward) and audire (to hear), through the evolution of Romance languages. In Italian, the form obbediente developed to express obedience or compliance, and its related noun obbedienza means “obedience.”

Usage and nuance: Obbediente is a neutral term appropriate for both everyday and formal contexts. It can describe people, animals, or organizations that obey instructions or norms. In literature and historical writing, it may appear in more formal or descriptive passages, sometimes alongside synonyms like servo or sottomesso depending on nuance. The term stays close to the idea of voluntary or habitual compliance rather than forced submission.

Cross-linguistic notes: In Portuguese and Spanish, the cognate is obediente/obediente, spelled with a single “b.” Italian uses the double “b” in obbediente, reflecting its distinct orthography within Romance languages. Related concepts include obedience (obbedienza), compliance, and submission.

See also: Obedience, Obediencia, Obedientemente, Servo, Compliance.