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fawning

adjective

/ˈfɔːnɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of fawning

Excessively subservient, flattering or sycophantic in order to seek favor, approval or advancement.
"His fawning behavior towards his boss was quite transparent and insincere."

Detailed meaning of fawning

Fawning is the act of behaving in an excessively subservient, flattering or sycophantic way towards someone, usually someone in a position of authority or power. Fawning can be a way of seeking favor, approval or advancement by trying to please or ingratiate oneself with the person. It can also be a way to gain favor or avoid disapproval.

Fawning behavior can take many forms, such as excessive flattery, compliments, or agreement with the person, or behaving in a subservient or obsequious manner. It can be done through words or actions, and it can be overt or subtle.

Fawning is often seen as insincere and manipulative, as the person is not being genuine, but rather trying to gain something through flattery. It can also be seen as a form of weakness or lack of integrity, as the person is not standing up for their own beliefs or values. Fawning can be seen as a negative trait, and it can be detrimental to one's reputation, as it can be perceived as a lack of authenticity and integrity.

Example sentences containing fawning

1. The celebrity was used to the fawning attention of her adoring fans.
2. The politician was uncomfortable with the fawning praise from the media.
3. She received a fawning review for her latest performance in the play.
4. The sycophantic employee's fawning attitude annoyed his coworkers.
5. The manager disliked the fawning attitude of the new intern.
6. The author was uncomfortable with the fawning admiration of her readers.

History and etymology of fawning

The adjective 'fawning' finds its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'faunen,' which means 'to flatter' or 'to fawn upon.' This Middle English term can be traced back further to the Old English 'fagnian,' which also means 'to rejoice' or 'to be glad.' Over time, the word 'fawn' came to be associated with excessive flattery or subservience, especially in order to seek favor, approval, or advancement. The connection between expressing joy or gladness and ingratiating behavior reflects the evolution of the term's meaning, highlighting how it transformed from a positive expression of happiness to a negative connotation of insincere flattery.

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Further usage examples of fawning

1. He found it difficult to respect people who engaged in constant fawning.
2. The fawning flattery from her friends made her feel uncomfortable.
3. The professor discouraged fawning behavior from his students and encouraged critical thinking.
4. The media were fawning adoration over the handsome actor.
5. The artist appreciated genuine critique rather than fawning compliments.
6. The politician's fawning supporters followed him wherever he went.
7. The film director was unimpressed by the fawning entourage that surrounded him.
8. Despite her success, she remained down-to-earth and disliked fawning attention.
9. The actor was taken aback by the fawning admiration of his young fans.
10. Her fawning attitude towards the wealthy was a source of frustration for her friends.
11. The employee's fawning behavior towards the CEO was cringe-worthy.
12. Fawning praise can often hinder personal growth by discouraging self-reflection.
13. The writer valued honest feedback over fawning adoration from readers.
14. The coach appreciated dedication and hard work over fawning from athletes.
15. The sycophant's fawning demeanor made it challenging to trust him.