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sycophant

noun

/ˈsɪkəfant/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sycophant

A person who acts in an obsequious, flattering or servile manner towards someone powerful in order to gain advantage.
"The sycophant's constant brown-nosing irritated his colleagues."

Detailed meaning of sycophant

A sycophant is often seen as a "Yes-man" or someone who will do or say whatever they think will please the person they are trying to impress, in order to gain something in return, such as a promotion, a favor or a privilege. They may also be known for their insincerity and their tendency to flatter or praise excessively. They can be found in any type of environment, from work, to politics, to social circles. They are seen as opportunistic, and have a tendency to change their behavior and opinions based on who they are interacting with, in order to gain their approval.

Example sentences containing sycophant

1. I could tell by his praise that he was just another sycophant seeking favor.
2. The office sycophant constantly complimented the boss in an attempt to get promoted.
3. You're not a real friend, you're just a sycophant trying to use me.
4. Despite being a talented writer, she had turned into a sycophant to appease her publishers.
5. The prince was surrounded by sycophants who only cared about his wealth and power.
6. She refused to be a sycophant, always speaking her mind honestly.

History and etymology of sycophant

The noun 'sycophant' has its origins in ancient Greece. It comes from the Greek word 'sykophantes,' which referred to informers or slanderers. In ancient Athens, 'sykophantes' were individuals who reported offenses against the state, often using false or exaggerated accusations to gain favor with authorities. Over time, the term evolved to describe individuals who flattered or acted subserviently towards those in power in order to gain advantage or favor. 'Sycophant' denotes a person who employs excessive flattery or servility, often insincerely, to ingratiate themselves with influential individuals. The etymology of 'sycophant' highlights its historical association with informers and false accusers and underscores its contemporary connotation of fawning or obsequious behavior for personal gain.

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Further usage examples of sycophant

1. The sycophant's compliments were flattering at first, but they soon grew tiresome.
2. Sycophants have a way of making their flattery seem genuine, which can be misleading.
3. Our society needs more independent thinkers, not sycophants.
4. A true leader knows how to differentiate genuine advisors from sycophants.
5. He was wary of the sycophants who offered praise but had ulterior motives.
6. I appreciate honesty over the empty compliments of a sycophant.
7. Sycophants are often found in political circles, using flattery to gain power.
8. His role as a sycophant in the royal court was well-known.
9. Being a sycophant may get you ahead in the short-term, but it won't earn you respect.
10. A good manager recognizes the difference between a hard worker and a sycophant.
11. The celebrity's entourage was filled with sycophants who only cared about their own interests.
12. The sycophant tried to charm his way into the inner circle, but his intentions were transparent.
13. She couldn't stomach the behavior of the sycophants at the party, so she left early.
14. Even though he was a sycophant, he had an uncanny ability to make people feel important.