The spelling of the word "grovellers" can be confusing, but it is pronounced as /ˈɡrɒvələrz/. The correct usage of the word is "someone who behaves in a subservient or fawning manner," as in "The grovellers in the room were desperate for the boss's approval." The word is derived from the verb "grovel," which means to behave in an abject or subservient manner. The -er and -s suffixes are added for pluralization. Remember to spell "grovellers" with two L's to avoid confusion with the singular form "groveller".
Grovellers is the plural form of the noun "groveler." A groveler refers to an individual who exhibits a submissive or servile behavior, often in an exaggerated or obsequious manner, when interacting with someone in a position of power or authority. The term "groveller" can carry a somewhat negative connotation as it implies a lack of self-respect or dignity, as well as an excessive desire to appease or please others.
Grovellers, in social or professional settings, tend to engage in fawning or ingratiating behavior, often using flattery or excessive praise to gain favor or avoid confrontation. They may humiliate themselves or demean their own worth as a means to curry favor or seek approval. This could include indulging in self-deprecating humor, excessively apologizing, or making oneself smaller or less significant in order to accommodate the desires or demands of those in authority.
However, it is important to note that the term "groveller" can also be used metaphorically to describe anyone who debases themselves or sacrifices their own principles or integrity in order to gain personal advantage, prestige, or compliance from someone else. This broader definition encompasses situations beyond the realm of hierarchical power structures.
Overall, "grovellers" are individuals who demonstrate subservient behavior in their interactions, often with the intention of gaining favor or avoiding conflict, but it can also imply a lack of self-respect or personal integrity.
The word "grovellers" is derived from the verb "grovel".
The term "grovel" has roots in Middle English and Old Norse. In Middle English, the term was "grufle", meaning "to lie prone on the ground". This Middle English word is considered to have roots in Old Norse "grafsla", which also meant "to crawl on one's belly".
Over time, "grovel" evolved to mean acting in a subservient, servile, or abject manner. It refers to behaving with excessive flattery, crawling, or bending over in a fawning manner to gain favor or avoid punishment from someone in a position of power.
Therefore, "grovellers" is the noun form of "grovel", referring to individuals who engage in such servile behavior or act in a subservient manner.