Study for the SAT Vocabulary 2025 Test. Master vocabulary with flashcards and questions, each with detailed explanations. Get ready for your exam!

A "servile" demeanor is characterized by excessive submissiveness and a cringing attitude towards others, usually in a way that suggests a lack of self-respect or dignity. This term often conveys a sense of obsequiousness, where an individual may go out of their way to please someone else, sacrificing their own autonomy and self-worth in the process.

In contrast, the other options present characteristics that do not align with the essence of being "servile." A dominant and aggressive demeanor showcases power and assertiveness, directly opposing submission. Similarly, an independent and strong demeanor emphasizes self-reliance and confidence, while an assertive demeanor asserts one's opinions and rights without deference to others. Thus, the correct characterization of "servile" reflects the nature of being overly subservient and lacking the confidence typically associated with assertive or independent behaviors.