Definitions

obey

[oh-bey] / oʊˈbeɪ /

VERB

conform, give in

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accept adhere to carry out comply embrace execute heed live by observe surrender

STRONG

accede accord acquiesce agree answer assent concur discharge follow fulfill keep mind perform respond serve submit

WEAK

abide by act upon be loyal to be ruled by bow to do as one says do one's bidding do one's duty do what is expected do what one is told get in line give way hold fast knuckle under play second fiddle take orders toe the line

Antonyms

STRONGEST

decline deny disregard forget ignore leave miss neglect overlook refuse reject

STRONG

argue ask differ disagree disallow disapprove disobey dispute dissent fail object oppose protest question

WEAK

mutiny rebel

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He figures that if they have to exist, they ought to obey him.

From Slate • Jun. 25, 2026

"Australia's world-leading social media laws are not failing. But big tech is failing to obey the laws," Communications Minister Anika Wells said at the time.

From Barron's • Jun. 24, 2026

But guests will have to obey one rule, don't mention the fishing trip.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

So you’ll pick and choose which court orders you’ll obey?

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

"Don't say such a thing! It's still our country, no matter who leads us. We must obey the law. I hate the thought of war, too, but we must defend the Fatherland, no matter what."

From "The Boy Who Dared" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Vocabulary lists containing obey

"Nadia the Willful"

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"Rachel the Clever"

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"The New England Primer"

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