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Groveller Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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groveller

[ˈɡrɒv.əl.ər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

humble submission

A groveller is a person who shows exaggerated humility or submits in a servile manner, often to gain favor or avoid punishment. This behavior typically involves flattering or ingratiating oneself to someone in a position of authority. Grovelling can be seen as a lack of self-respect or dignity, as it involves lowering oneself in a way that may be excessive or insincere. The term is often used with a negative connotation, implying that the individual is compromising their integrity for personal gain.

Synonyms

brown-noser, fawning, flatterer, sycophant, toady.

Examples of usage

  • He became a groveller in hopes of receiving a promotion.
  • The politician was viewed as a groveller by his peers.
  • Despite her talent, she never shies away from being a groveller to the director.
  • His grovelling to her family was embarrassing for everyone.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often display grovelling behavior to highlight themes of power and submission.
  • Charles Dickens portrays grovellers in his novels to critique social class and the extremes of poverty.
  • Classic literature often uses grovelling to develop characters who are desperate for validation or forgiveness from authority figures.

Psychology

  • Grovelling can stem from low self-esteem, where individuals feel unworthy and overcompensate by seeking approval.
  • People may grovel in interpersonal relationships due to fear of rejection or loss, reflecting deeper emotional insecurities.
  • Psychological studies suggest that grovelling can sometimes lead to manipulative behaviors rather than genuine change.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, grovelling is often portrayed humorously, emphasizing the disparity between the characters' intentions and outcomes.
  • Reality TV often shows contestants grovelling for favor from judges or peers, highlighting the extremes of competition.
  • A well-known quote from a movie features a character sarcastically telling another to stop grovelling, showcasing its negative connotation.

Social Dynamics

  • Grovelling typically arises in hierarchical relationships, especially where there is a clear power imbalance.
  • In the workplace, employees may grovel to superiors in hopes of job security or promotions, reflecting workplace culture complexities.
  • Social movements have highlighted how grovelling can alter public perception, affecting movements for equality and justice.

Origin of 'groveller'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Middle English term 'grovelen', which meant to crawl on the ground.
  • Its roots trace back to the Old English 'gruf', meaning 'to crawl or crouch'.
  • Historically, it denoted a physical action before evolving into a metaphor for social behavior.

The term 'groveller' originates from the verb 'grovelling', which dates back to the early 19th century. The root of this word can be traced to the Old English 'grufian', which meant to 'crouch' or 'crawl'. This physical act of lowering oneself to the ground developed into a metaphorical sense, implying submission and obsequious behavior towards others. In literature, 'groveller' is often used to describe characters who seek to appease those of higher status through excessive humility. The notion of grovelling has been critiqued throughout history, representing moral degradation in the pursuit of power or favor. Its usage has extended into modern discussions about workplace dynamics and the ethical implications of sycophantic behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,203, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.