(pronounce ak-wee-ESS)

Though this word looks like it might have some kind of relationship to water – i.e., aqua- it doesn’t. So get that out of your head. (Sorry we even mentioned it.) Anyway, when you acquiesce, it means that you comply with and accept an idea or situation passively, without a struggle or objection. Takin’ it eaaaasy.

EXAMPLE: To hold on to his job (that he desperately needs), Gordon always acquiesces when his workaholic boss demands he stay late at the office, even on Friday nights.