sycophancy

[ sik-uh-fuhn-see, -fan-, sahy-kuh- ]

noun

1. self-seeking or servile flattery.
2. the character or conduct of a sycophant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sycophancy¹

First recorded in 1615–25; from Latin sȳcophantia “trickery,” from Greek sȳkophantía “dishonest prosecution,” from sȳkophánt(ēs) “informer” ( sycophant ) + -ia -y ³

Example Sentences

Gaetz, however, is unsurpassed in his sycophancy.

From Salon

Like the French elites in World War II, they have become Quislings, establishing a tone of sycophancy and eagerness to please that unmistakably telegraphs that the rest of us are on our own.

From Salon

If you can’t beat them, it surely can be more enjoyable to join them, especially when any fears of breaking the republic can be washed away with your colleagues’ sweet, soothing sycophancy.

From Slate

But for all of his shameful fawning sycophancy over murderous tyrants, Trump has mostly confined his strongman adulation to matters of foreign policy and national security.

From Salon

Trump is more susceptible to sycophancy than any leader outside a Marx Brothers movie.

From Slate

Related Words

• toadyism