Grovel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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grovel
[ˈɡrɒv(ə)l ]
Definitions
in a humiliating manner
To behave in a servile or subservient way, to show excessive deference or obsequiousness. To beg persistently and urgently, especially on one's knees.
Synonyms
crawl, cringe, fawn, kneel, kowtow.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| grovel |
Used when someone behaves in a way to show they are very sorry or trying very hard to gain favor, often in a humiliating or degrading manner.
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| kowtow |
Showing excessive deference and respect, often in a way that is seen as degrading or servile.
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| fawn |
Used when someone is giving a lot of attention to another person in order to gain their favor or goodwill, often in an exaggerated or insincere manner.
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| crawl |
This word implies moving on hands and knees, and figuratively, it can mean acting in a very subservient or humble way.
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| cringe |
Used when someone feels or shows a lack of confidence, or feels embarrassed or awkward. It often has a negative connotation.
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| kneel |
Physically getting down on one's knees, often as a sign of respect, submission, or worship.
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Examples of usage
- He groveled at her feet, begging for forgiveness.
- The politician groveled to the public after the scandal broke.
- She refused to grovel to anyone, no matter the circumstances.
informal
A situation in which someone is behaving in a servile or obsequious way.
Synonyms
fawning, kowtowing, obsequiousness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| grovel |
Use this word when describing someone who is showing excessive submission or humility, often in a degrading manner, usually to obtain forgiveness or favor. It can have a negative connotation, implying weakness or lack of self-respect.
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| fawning |
This word refers to showing exaggerated flattery or affection, often to gain favor or advantage from someone in a position of higher status. It can be associated with insincerity and is often seen negatively.
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| kowtowing |
This word is used to describe a person showing overly submissive behavior, often in a context where they are trying to gain approval from someone in authority. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of dignity and self-respect.
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| obsequiousness |
This term describes behavior that is excessively eager to please or obey someone in authority, and often with a lack of sincerity. It is generally used in a negative sense to criticize someone who is too willing to serve or flatter others.
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Examples of usage
- She couldn't stand the constant grovel from her colleagues.
- The grovel from the salesperson was so over-the-top, it was almost comical.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often grovel to show their regret or desire for reconciliation, adding dramatic tension.
- Popular songs sometimes use the theme of groveling to express deep feelings of love or longing, often appealing to emotional listeners.
- Comedy often depicts exaggerated groveling to highlight absurdity, making it a common trope in humorous situations.
Psychology
- Groveling can be a defense mechanism, where individuals may engage in submissive behavior to avoid conflict.
- Research suggests that those who frequently grovel may struggle with self-esteem issues, seeking validation from others.
- Psychologists view such behavior as a complex interplay of power dynamics in relationships.
Literature
- In literature, characters who grovel often experience significant character development, moving from weakness to strength.
- Famous novels often illustrate the pitfalls of groveling, showing how it can lead to loss of dignity and respect.
- Classic works use groveling to define social hierarchies, where characters blindly appease those in power.
Social Dynamics
- Groveling can impact personal relationships, as it may lead to resentment or power imbalances.
- In professional settings, excessive groveling may undermine credibility, making one appear less competent.
- Social norms vary across cultures; in some societies, humility is valued, but in others, assertiveness is preferred.
Origin of 'grovel'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English 'grovelen', meaning to crawl or creep.
- It is believed to be related to the Old English word 'grufian', which means to kneel or crawl.
- Originally, it had connotations of both physical crawling and metaphorical submission.
The word 'grovel' originated from the Old English word 'grufelian' which meant 'to dig in the ground with the snout'. Over time, the meaning evolved to convey the act of behaving in a servile or obsequious manner. The word has negative connotations and is often associated with demeaning oneself for the favor of another.