SYCOPHANTISM Meaning and
Definition
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Sycophantism refers to a form of flattery or excessive praise directed towards someone in order to gain favor, advantage, or personal gain. It is the act of behaving in a fawning, obsequious, or overly attentive manner to ingratiate oneself with another individual, especially someone in a position of power or influence.
A sycophant, or sycophantic individual, typically goes to great lengths to compliment, praise, or cater to someone, often without regard for their own integrity or beliefs. This behavior is commonly driven by a desire for personal gain, such as seeking favors, promotions, or other benefits. Sycophants often exhibit a lack of genuineness or sincerity in their actions, as their primary motivation is to manipulate others rather than genuinely connect with them.
Sycophantism can be observed in various contexts, such as professional relationships, social circles, or even within families. The behavior often involves an excessive eagerness to please, flatter, or support someone in power or authority. While sycophantism may temporarily enable individuals to gain certain advantages or privileges, it is generally viewed negatively and considered insincere or opportunistic.
In summary, sycophantism can be defined as the act of ingratiating oneself through excessive praise or flattery in order to gain personal benefit or favor from someone in a position of power or influence. It is a behavior motivated by self-interest rather than genuine connection or mutual respect.
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Mean flattery; sycophancy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SYCOPHANTISM
- aycophantism
- zycophantism
- xycophantism
- dycophantism
- eycophantism
- wycophantism
- stcophantism
- sgcophantism
- shcophantism
- sucophantism
- s7cophantism
- s6cophantism
- syxophantism
- syvophantism
- syfophantism
- sydophantism
- syciphantism
- syckphantism
- syclphantism
- sycpphantism
Etymology of SYCOPHANTISM
The word "sycophantism" is derived from the term "sycophant", which traces its roots back to ancient Greece. In Greek, "sykophantēs" referred to a person who informed authorities about stolen grain shipments. This concept can be broken down into "sykon" meaning "fig", and "phainein" meaning "to show", creating the literal meaning "one who shows the fig". The reason behind this intriguing origin is that in ancient Greece, gesturing with an extended finger and thumb was considered highly offensive, similar to an obscene hand gesture in modern times. Sycophants were said to have exposed the culprits by pointing directly at them with an extended finger, hence the term's association with informers or flatterers. Over time, the term evolved to encompass an individual who ingratiates themselves with powerful or influential people in order to gain favor or advancement.
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