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Adulated: meaning, definitions and examples

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adulated

 

[ ˈædʒəˌleɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

extreme praise

Adulated means to show excessive admiration or devotion towards someone. This verb often implies a level of flattery or sycophancy that exceeds normal admiration. People who adulate often do so in a way that is over-the-top, possibly seeking to gain favor or approval from the object of their affection. The term typically has a negative connotation, suggesting insincerity in the praise offered. Historically, it can describe behavior seen in fans towards celebrities or followers towards leaders.

Synonyms

extolled, flattered, idolized, praised, worshipped

Examples of usage

  • The fans adulated the pop star, showering her with gifts.
  • Critics claimed the media adulated the politician beyond reason.
  • He felt uncomfortable being adulated by his coworkers.
  • The coach was adulated for the team's remarkable turnaround.
  • In the past, many leaders were adulated as demigods.

Translations

Translations of the word "adulated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adulado

🇮🇳 पूजनीय

🇩🇪 bewundert

🇮🇩 dipuja

🇺🇦 адулював

🇵🇱 adorowany

🇯🇵 称賛された

🇫🇷 adulé

🇪🇸 adulado

🇹🇷 yüceltilmiş

🇰🇷 숭배받는

🇸🇦 مُعَظَّم

🇨🇿 obdivovaný

🇸🇰 uctievaný

🇨🇳 崇拜的

🇸🇮 občudovan

🇮🇸 dýrkaður

🇰🇿 құрметтелген

🇬🇪 შექებილი

🇦🇿 təriflənmiş

🇲🇽 adulado

Word origin

The word 'adulate' derives from the Latin 'adulatus', which is the past participle of 'adulare', meaning 'to flatter or to fawn upon'. The prefix 'ad-' means 'to' or 'toward', while 'ulatus' is a form related to 'ulere', which means 'to wag the tail', a gesture often associated with animals showing submission or affection. The term entered the English language in the early 19th century, when it began to be used to describe excessive flattery or idolization of individuals, especially in a political or artistic context. It has evolved to carry a slightly derogatory connotation, implying insincerity or a lack of genuine regard behind the praise. Over time, 'adulate' has been associated with cultural phenomena such as celebrity worship, where fans may exhibit adulation toward their idols without critical judgment.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,676, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.