Toady
Noun
Definition: An obsequious person who flatters others in order to gain favor.
Synonyms: Sycophant, Flatterer, Fawner, Bootlicker
Antonyms: Independent, Individualist, Nonconformist
- The toady constantly showered the boss with compliments.
- She was labeled a toady for always agreeing with those in power.
- Imagine someone "toadying" up to another person, like a toad crawling on their knees to please them.
- Think of the word "toady" as a combination of "toad" (a creature often associated with slyness or deception) and "y," which represents someone who is subservient.
Etymology:
The word "toady" originated in the early 19th century from the verb "toad-eat," which meant to flatter or pander to. It is believed to be derived from the idea that a toad would eat anything, even unsavory things, symbolizing a person's willingness to do anything to gain favor.
Historical Usage:The term has been used to describe people who excessively flatter and pander to those in power or authority throughout history.
Related Idioms:
"Toadying up to"
Explanation:This phrase is used to describe someone who is ingratiating themselves to another person through excessive flattery or subservient behavior.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "toady" with "toddler."
Explanation:"Toady" refers to a person who behaves obsequiously, while "toddler" refers to a young child who is learning to walk. These words are unrelated and have different meanings.