acquiescence

American  

[ak-wee-es-uhns] / ˌæk wiˈɛs əns /

noun

1. the act or condition of acquiescing or giving tacit assent; agreement or consent by silence or without objection; compliance (usually followed by to orin ).

   acquiescence to his boss's demands.

2. Law. such neglect to take legal proceedings for such a long time as to imply the abandonment of a right.

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Other Word Forms

• nonacquiescence
  noun

Etymology

Origin of acquiescence

First recorded in 1625–35; acquiesce + -ence

Explanation

Acquiescence is an agreement, usually a willingness to go along with what someone else suggests. "Sure, I don't mind," "That sounds like a plan," and "Good idea" — these are all ways to show your acquiescence. The word acquiescence, pronounced "ack-we-ESS-sense," comes from the French word of the same spelling. The first record of its meaning as "silent consent" occurred in the 1640s. Acquiescence, in addition to "agreement," can also mean "acceptance without protest." Often when you offer acquiescence, you give in to another person's plan, perhaps because you are afraid to object or you don't have a better idea of your own.

Example Sentences

“Here” is, at heart, a compendium of small moments that chime in unexpected ways, and that together acquire genuine depth.

From New York Times • Dec. 23, 2014

There are two idiot-proof ways to acquire genuine autographed books.

From Forbes • Dec. 3, 2009

The Open Market Committee will cease to be an advisory body, will acquire genuine authority over the Federal Reserve System's buying & selling of government and other paper.

From Time Magazine Archive

It is hardly possible for you to acquire genuine good manners without an acute sense of equity.

From How To Behave: A Pocket Manual Of Republican Etiquette, And Guide To Correct Personal Habits Embracing An Exposition Of The Principles Of Good Manners; Useful Hints On The Care Of The Person, Eating, Drinking, Exercise, Habits, Dress, Self-Culture, And Behavior At Home; The Etiquette Of Salutations, Introductions, Receptions, Visits, Dinners, Evening Parties, Conversation, Letters, Presents, Weddings, Funerals, The Street, The Church, Places Of Amusement, Traveling, Etc., With Illustrative Anecdotes, a Chapter on Love and Courtship, and Rules of Order for Debating Societies by Wells, Samuel R. (Samuel Roberts)

Related Words

• acceptance
• assent
• concurrence
• consent
• obedience
• yielding