sycophant
noun
A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage; a servile flatterer.
Etymology
From Greek sykophantes meaning "informer, slanderer," literally "one who shows figs," of uncertain origin, possibly related to obscene gestures.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The CEO was surrounded by sycophants who agreed with everything."
- 2.
"He despised sycophants and valued honest advisors."
- 3.
"Social media has created new opportunities for sycophantic behavior."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
The mysterious "fig-shower" origin may relate to ancient Athenians who informed on illegal fig exports, but scholars debate this. The word's meaning shifted from informer to flatterer.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 9 letters (S, Y, C, O, P, H, A, N, T)
Scrabble Value: 19 points
Tip: Words ending in "NT" are often good scoring opportunities.
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