Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Toadying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐸
Add to dictionary

toadying

[ˈtəʊdiɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

flattering behavior

Toadying is the act of behaving in a subservient or sycophantic manner, often to gain favor or advantage from someone in a position of power. It involves excessive flattery, fawning, and ingratiating behavior.

Synonyms

fawning, obsequious, subservient, sycophantic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
toadying

Typically used to describe someone excessively flattering or being overly compliant to gain favor from someone in a position of power. Often seen in a negative light.

  • His constant toadying to the CEO made his coworkers lose respect for him.
  • Everyone could see that her toadying behavior was just a ploy to get ahead in the company.
sycophantic

Referring to someone who praises powerful people too much in a way that is insincere, usually for personal advantage. This word has a negative connotation.

  • The journalist was criticized for his sycophantic articles praising the government.
  • His sycophantic behavior at the dinner party was embarrassing for everyone.
obsequious

Describes someone who is overly eager to serve or obey someone in authority. This term is generally used in a negative context.

  • His obsequious manners were evident during the meeting, where he agreed to everything the manager said.
  • An obsequious smile played on his lips as he welcomed the important guests.
fawning

Used when someone is showing exaggerated affection or flattery to gain favor or approval. Often implies a lack of genuine respect.

  • She was fawning over her boss in hopes of getting a promotion.
  • The actor was uncomfortable with how the fans were fawning over him.
subservient

Used to describe a person who is excessively willing to obey others. This term can be seen as negative when it suggests a lack of autonomy or self-respect.

  • She found herself in a subservient role, always following her brother's lead.
  • The subservient attitude of the staff was unsettling to observe.

Examples of usage

  • He was constantly toadying to the boss in hopes of a promotion.
  • She resented his toadying behavior towards the wealthy clients.
  • The politician was known for his toadying to the wealthy donors.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Political sycophants, known historically as 'court jesters', often toady to rulers seeking rewards for their flattery.
  • Throughout history, leaders have often surrounded themselves with toadies, as they offer praise and reinforce authority.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and books, characters who are toadying often serve as comic relief, exaggerating their flattery to highlight their obsequious nature.
  • Popular television shows often depict toadying as a trait of the character seeking popularity or social acceptance.

Psychology

  • Toadying behavior can stem from low self-esteem, leading individuals to seek validation through excessive praise.
  • Research shows that people often toady to gain social advantage in hierarchies, hoping to be perceived positively by leaders.

Literature

  • Classic novels feature toadying characters, often exposing the absurdity of their actions and highlighting themes of social dynamics.
  • Satirical literature frequently critiques toadying behavior, revealing the hypocrisy and moral dilemmas of flattering those in power.

Origin of 'toadying'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from 'toady', which originally referred to a person who acts submissively to gain favor, reminiscent of how a toad is seen as lowly.
  • This word became popular in the 19th century, with its use typically tied to those who ingratiate themselves with more powerful individuals.

The word 'toadying' originated from the verb 'toad' which means to behave obsequiously or flatteringly towards someone in a servile way. The term evolved over time to describe the act of excessive flattery or ingratiating behavior towards someone in a position of power.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,855, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.