Adulatory: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal contexts to describe excessive praise, often in a public or official setting.

• The politician received adulatory remarks from his supporters.
• The author received an adulatory review from the literary critic.

Used to describe praise that makes someone look or feel better, often conveyed with a hint of exaggeration; can be sincere or insincere.

• He gave her a flattering compliment about her dress.
• The salesperson's flattering words were clearly aimed at making a sale.

Used in everyday situations to give positive feedback, often sincerely and without excess.

• She gave him a complimentary comment about his presentation.
• The waiter received many complimentary reviews for his excellent service.

Used to describe behavior that is overly affectionate or submissive, usually to gain favor, and often seen as insincere.

• The employee's fawning behavior towards the boss was obvious to everyone.
• The dog was fawning over its owner, hoping for a treat.

Used to describe overly submissive and eager-to-please behavior, typically with negative connotations.

• His obsequious manners annoyed his colleagues.
• The obsequious assistant agreed with everything his boss said.

Used to describe insincere flattery intended to gain advantage from someone with power, carries a strongly negative connotation.

• The manager grew tired of his subordinate's sycophantic behavior.
• Her sycophantic praise was easily seen through by everyone in the room.