Brownnoser: meaning, definitions and examples
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brownnoser
[ ˈbraʊnˌnoʊzər ]
workplace behavior
A brownnoser is a person who tries to gain favor with authority figures by flattery or sucking up. They often seek to advance their own interests by ingratiating themselves with those in power.
Synonyms
bootlicker, suck up, yes-man
Examples of usage
- He's such a brownnoser, always complimenting the boss to get ahead.
- She's known as the office brownnoser because she's constantly bringing gifts to the manager.
Translations
Translations of the word "brownnoser" in other languages:
🇵🇹 puxa-saco
🇮🇳 चापलूस (chāpalūs)
🇩🇪 Schleimer
🇮🇩 penjilat
🇺🇦 підлизник
🇵🇱 lizus
🇯🇵 ごますり (gomasuri)
🇫🇷 lèche-bottes
🇪🇸 lamebotas
🇹🇷 yalaka
🇰🇷 아첨꾼 (acheomkkun)
🇸🇦 متملق (mutamalliq)
🇨🇿 podlézavec
🇸🇰 pätolízač
🇨🇳 拍马屁的人 (pāi mǎ pì de rén)
🇸🇮 ritoliznik
🇮🇸 sleikja
🇰🇿 жағымпаз (jagympaz)
🇬🇪 ლიქნიერი (liqnieri)
🇦🇿 yalaq
🇲🇽 lamebotas
Word origin
The term 'brownnoser' originated in the early 20th century in the United States. It is derived from the imagery of someone figuratively kissing up to authority figures to the point where their nose turns brown from being in such close proximity. The behavior associated with brownnosing has been criticized for its insincerity and opportunism.