Pronunciation: [fˈɔːnɪŋ ˈə͡ʊvə] (IPA) 
The spelling of "fawning over" can be confusing due to the unique phonetic sounds in the word. The initial "f" sound is followed by the "aw" diphthong, represented by the IPA symbol /ɔː/. The "n" sound is pronounced with the tongue touching the back of the teeth, while the final "ing" sound is nasal and ends with the velar nasal /ŋ/. The stress in the word falls on the first syllable, making it FAWN-ing over.
Fawning over refers to an excessive display of flattery, adulation, or admiration towards someone or something, typically done in an exaggerated or insincere manner. This term conveys the idea of behaving in an overly servile, obsequious, or sycophantic manner, with the intention of gaining favor, attention, or approval from the person being fawned over.
The phrase "fawning over" suggests a certain level of fawning or groveling behavior directed towards another individual or an object, often accompanied by exaggerated praise, compliments, or even physical gestures such as bowing or prostrating oneself. It implies a lack of genuine sincerity or authenticity in the interaction, as the person fawning may be acting out of ulterior motives or a desire to gain personal benefits.
Fawning over can occur in various contexts, such as in professional settings where individuals might excessively praise their superiors or influential figures in the hopes of advancing their careers, or in personal relationships where someone excessively flatters their partner or friends to manipulate or control the relationship dynamics.
While fawning over can sometimes be seen as an attempt to be polite or respectful, it is often viewed as insincere and disingenuous. The term usually carries a negative connotation, as it is associated with ingratiation, bootlicking, or brown-nosing behavior.
The word "fawning" comes from the Middle English word "faunen", which means "to fawn or flatter". It can be traced back further to the Old English word "fagnian", meaning "to rejoice or be glad". The expression "fawning over" is a figurative use of the verb "to fawn", which originally described the behavior of a dog wagging its tail or licking its master's hand in a submissive and eager manner. Over time, this behavior became associated with excessive flattery or exaggerated displays of affection, giving rise to the phrase "fawning over" as it is commonly used today.
