Bootlicking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bootlicking

[ˈbuːtˌlɪkɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

behavior

The act of trying to gain favor or approval by acting in a servile or overly submissive manner, often towards someone in a position of authority.

Synonyms

flattery, obsequiousness, sycophancy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bootlicking	Used negatively to describe someone who is excessively eager to please someone in power, often for personal gain. Typically informal. His bootlicking behavior during the meeting was embarrassing. She's always bootlicking the boss to get ahead.
sycophancy	Used negatively to describe someone who uses flattery and sucking up to gain favor, often insincerely. Often used in political or professional contexts. The politician's sycophancy was evident in his constant praise for the party leader. Her sycophancy made it clear she was aiming for a promotion.
flattery	Can be used in neutral or positive contexts when someone is giving praise or compliments, but it may also imply insincerity if overdone. He appreciated her genuine flattery about his skills. Her excessive flattery made it clear she wanted something in return.
obsequiousness	Used negatively to describe someone who is overly submissive and eager to please, often in a servile manner. More formal than 'bootlicking'. The manager's obsequiousness towards the CEO was obvious to everyone. His obsequiousness made him unpopular among his colleagues.

Examples of usage

He was accused of bootlicking the boss in order to get a promotion.
She was tired of the constant bootlicking in the office.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

action

To behave in a servile or obsequious manner in order to gain favor or approval, especially from someone in a position of authority.

Synonyms

fawn, flatter, kowtow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bootlicking	This word has a negative connotation and is used to describe someone who excessively praises or obeys someone in authority in a sycophantic manner. His bootlicking attitude towards the manager irritated his colleagues.
flatter	This word is generally used in a more neutral or positive sense to describe giving compliments, often to make someone feel good or gain favor, but not necessarily insincere. However, it can have a negative tone if the flattery is seen as being excessive or manipulative. She flattered her friend by praising her cooking skills. He tried to flatter his way into getting extra credit in the class.
fawn	This term often indicates someone showing exaggerated flattery or affection, usually to gain favor. It can have a somewhat negative or desperate tone. The intern was fawning over the CEO in hopes of getting a promotion.
kowtow	This term means to act in an excessively submissive manner to please someone in authority. It has a strong negative connotation, suggesting a lack of integrity or self-respect. He would never kowtow to his boss just to keep his job.

Examples of usage

He spent hours bootlicking the manager to get a raise.
Stop bootlicking and stand up for yourself!

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

Numerous TV shows and movies portray characters who engage in this behavior, often used for comedic relief or to showcase moral failings.
Social media has amplified discussions about bootlicking, especially surrounding public figures and their followers.
Popular phrases like 'ass-kissing' or 'brown-nosing' are often used interchangeably, emphasizing a common understanding in popular discourse.

Psychology

Studies show that individuals who engage in such behavior often have low self-esteem and feel a strong need for approval.
This behavior can be a coping mechanism in competitive environments, where individuals seek to increase their chances of acceptance or promotion.
People who are accused of bootlicking might experience heightened anxiety and stress, as they constantly navigate power dynamics.

Literature

In literature, characters who exhibit this trait often serve to illustrate deeper themes of power, control, and moral ambiguity.
Classic novels frequently depict bootlicking characters to critique societal norms and hierarchies, offering readers a lens on unethical behavior.
Satirical works, such as those by Jonathan Swift or George Orwell, highlight bootlicking as a systemic issue within governments and institutions.

Origin of 'bootlicking'

Main points about word origin

The term originally combines the literal action of licking boots – a sign of submission – with a figurative sense of flattery.
First known use dates back to the mid-20th century, emphasizing social dynamics in workplaces or politics.
The term gained prominence in the realm of political commentary, highlighting sycophantic behavior in various governments.

The term 'bootlicking' originated in the 19th century and is believed to have come from the act of licking someone's boots as a sign of submission or obedience. It is often used in a derogatory manner to describe behavior that is overly submissive or sycophantic.