Eldridge Cleaver

There is no calamity which a great nation can invite which equals that which follows a supine submission to wrong and injustice and the consequent loss of national self-respect and honor, beneath which are shielded and defended a people's safety and greatness.

American Activist

Supine describes a specific way the body is lying down.

Physical Position

Supine means lying on the back, not face down—that's 'prone'.

Not Face Down

In supine position, the face is usually visible to someone standing over.

Visible Face

Used figuratively, 'supine' suggests not taking action when you should.

Lack of Action

It conveys an attitude of weakness or submissiveness.

Not Assertive

Calling someone supine usually implies criticism, not praise.

Not Complimentary

The noun 'supine' has a specialized meaning in Latin, unrelated to posture.

Latin Grammar

The term 'supine' in linguistics mostly applies to Latin, not modern languages.