Definition
displaying exaggerated flattery or affection in order to please or gain favor; obsequious.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
obsequious, sycophantic, servile, toadying, ingratiating, groveling, subservient, cringing, flattering
Antonyms
independent, assertive, self-assured, self-reliant
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | fawner, fawns, fawners, fawn |
| Verb | fawns, fawned, fawning, fawn |
| Adjective | fawning |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The politician’s fawning behavior towards the wealthy donors was shameless.
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The employee’s fawning attitude towards the boss was transparently insincere.
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She could see through his fawning compliments and recognized that he was just trying to manipulate her.
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The actor’s fawning behavior towards the director earned him a leading role in the next film.
Usage
The word “fawning” is used to describe someone who is excessively flattering or obsequious in order to gain favor or approval from another person. This behavior is often seen as insincere, manipulative, or desperate, and is not generally respected or admired.
The word “fawning” comes from the verb “fawn,” which means to show exaggerated flattery or affection towards someone in order to gain their favor or approval. The word can be used to describe a wide range of behaviors, from insincere compliments to extreme subservience.
The use of the word “fawning” is often negative, suggesting that the person engaging in this behavior is weak-willed, unprincipled, or lacking in self-respect. It can also be seen as manipulative or disingenuous, as the person is not expressing their true feelings, but instead is trying to manipulate the other person’s opinion of them.
Overall, the word “fawning” is a useful term to describe a behavior that is often seen as negative or undesirable in many social and professional situations. Its negative connotations reflect the idea that excessive flattery or obsequiousness is not generally respected or admired, and that genuine sincerity and self-assurance are more highly valued traits.