Bootlicker
Noun
Definition: A person who is excessively subservient or fawning towards someone in authority; often used to describe someone who flatters or ingratiates themselves with powerful people.
Synonyms: Sycophant, Toady, Brown-noser, Flatterer
Antonyms: Independent, Individualistic, Assertive
- The employee was known as a bootlicker, always praising the boss to gain favor.
- The politician surrounded himself with bootlickers who would do anything to please him.
- Imagine someone literally licking boots to show excessive subservience.
Etymology:
The term "bootlicker" originated from the literal act of licking someone's boots as a display of submission and flattery.
Historical Usage:The term has been used since the early 19th century to describe those who grovel to those in power.
Related Idioms:
"Bootlicking"
Explanation:Referring to the act of behaving in a subservient or fawning manner towards someone in authority.
Misconceptions:
Bootlicker refers to someone who wears boots or likes boots.
Explanation:The term has a figurative meaning of excessive subservience and flattery, not related to footwear preferences or choices.