Ingratiating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is trying to gain favor or approval in a way that seems sincere or flattering.

• He offered an ingratiating smile to the new boss, hoping to make a good first impression.
• Her ingratiating compliments made it clear she wanted to be liked.

Implies an excessive eagerness to please or obey, often in a way that is perceived as off-putting or sycophantic.

• His obsequious behavior towards the management was noted by his peers with disdain.
• She found his obsequious manners irritating and untrustworthy.

Describes behavior that is overly flattering or servile, often perceived as insincere or excessive.

• The assistant's fawning manner was embarrassing as he hung on every word of his employer.
• She didn't appreciate the fawning attention from her colleagues, preferring straightforward interactions.

Describes behavior that is excessively flattering toward someone important in a way that is insincere, often for personal gain.

• The sycophantic praise from the team was a transparent attempt to win favor with the CEO.
• His sycophantic tendencies made it clear he was more interested in advancing his career than being genuine.

Used when someone is trying too hard to win favor or please someone, often in a way that seems insincere or excessive. This word can have a negative connotation.

• His ingratiating smile made me feel uncomfortable.
• She made an ingratiating effort to be liked by everyone.

Used when someone is giving compliments or praise, often excessively, to win favor or make someone feel good. This can sometimes be seen as insincere.

• His flattering remarks seemed over the top.
• She gave him a flattering compliment on his new suit.

Used to describe something that gives pleasure or satisfaction, often through its appearance or manner. It generally has a positive connotation.

• The painting was pleasing to the eye.
• He had a pleasing manner that made him easy to talk to.

Used to describe a person or behavior that is naturally attractive or pleasant. This word usually has a positive connotation.

• He was a charming host who made everyone feel welcome.
• Her charming personality won the hearts of many.