'obedient' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'obedientem,' where 'ob-' meant 'toward' and 'audire' meant 'to hear.'

'obedientem' transformed into the Old French word 'obedient,' and eventually became the modern English word 'obedient' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to hear or listen to,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'willing to comply with orders or requests.'