Fawning: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used to describe someone who shows exaggerated flattery or affection, usually to gain favor or advantage. It often implies insincerity.

• The employee's fawning behavior was obvious when he laughed at all of the boss's jokes, no matter how bad they were

This term is generally used when someone is giving compliments or praise that may be sincere or insincere. It doesn't always have a negative connotation but can suggest manipulation.

• She wore a very flattering dress that highlighted her best features
• His flattering words made her feel special, but she wasn't sure if he meant them

This word is often used in a negative sense to describe someone who is excessively submissive or eager to please, often to gain some kind of reward or favor.

• The intern's obsequious attitude towards the managers was starting to annoy the other employees
• His obsequious behavior made it clear he was hoping for a promotion

This term describes behavior that is overly flattering and submissive, usually to gain favor from someone in a position of power. It has a strongly negative connotation.

• The sycophantic comments from the followers were just a way to stay in the celebrity's good graces
• His sycophantic praise left everyone in the room cringing

Used to describe someone's behavior when they are excessively flattering or eager to please, often in a way that seems insincere or overly eager.

• The intern's fawning behavior towards the boss made everyone uncomfortable
• She was fawning over him, hoping to get a promotion

Refers to excessive admiration or praise, often used in contexts where someone is praised to the point of exaggeration or sycophancy.

• Celebrities often receive adulation from their fans
• His adulation for the coach was evident when he named his son after him

Describes actions taken to make oneself more likeable or accepted, usually by complimenting others or doing favors, often perceived as manipulative.

• His ingratiation towards the new manager involved bringing her coffee every morning
• The ingratiation tactics he used were too obvious and made people distrust him

Used when someone compliments or praises another, usually to gain some favor or advantage. This word can have a slightly negative connotation if the praise is insincere.

• He used flattery to get invited to the exclusive party
• She saw through his flattery and refused to approve his request