Toady: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who excessively flatters or behaves obsequiously to someone important, usually for personal gain. It often has a negative and contemptuous tone.

• He's just a toady who does whatever the boss says.
• She can't stand the toadies in the office always trying to please the manager.

Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe someone who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage. It carries a strong negative connotation and is synonymous with being a servile flatterer.

• The politician was surrounded by sycophants who praised his every move.
• She despised the sycophants in the court who constantly vied for the king's favor.

This term can be neutral or slightly negative, used to describe someone who gives excessive or insincere praise. It can fit both formal and informal contexts.

• He's a skillful flatterer who always knows what to say.
• Be careful around flatterers; they might have ulterior motives.

Commonly used in informal contexts to label someone who tries too hard to impress superiors, often perceived negatively. It suggests a lack of authenticity and a willingness to do anything for approval.

• Everyone knows he's a brown-noser, always complimenting the teacher to get good grades.
• Stop being such a brown-noser; it's embarrassing.

Used in a negative context to describe someone who flatters or defers to others excessively, usually for personal gain or favor. It suggests a lack of self-respect.

• He's nothing but a toady, always agreeing with the boss just to stay in her good graces.
• The new employee quickly became a toady, eager to please anyone in a position of power.

Used in a very negative context to describe someone who behaves in a subservient or obsequious way towards those in power. It implies a complete lack of dignity and independence.

• Everyone in the department knows he's a bootlicker, never questioning the boss's decisions.
• Her colleagues resent her for being a bootlicker, constantly seeking approval from the higher-ups.

Used in a negative context to describe someone who always agrees with their superiors, often without critical thinking or questioning. This person is seen as lacking originality and courage.

• He's just a yes-man, never voicing his own opinions in meetings.
• The CEO surrounds himself with yes-men, which is why the company struggles with innovation.

Used in a mostly negative context to describe someone who tries to win favor by giving praise or flattery, often in a way that seems insincere or excessive.

• Stop being such an apple-polisher! It's obvious you're just trying to impress the teacher.
• She's the biggest apple-polisher in the office, always complimenting the managers on everything.