pickthank

[ pik-thangk ]

noun

, Archaic.

1. a person who seeks favor by flattery or gossip; sycophant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pickthank¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; noun use of verb phrase pick a thank, pick thanks

Example Sentences

Le Mercier was a pickthank, angling after the favor of La Pompadour,—a pretentious knave, as hollow as one of his own mortars.

From Project Gutenberg

So there came in three witnesses; to wit, Envy, Superstition, and Pickthank.

From Project Gutenberg

Three witnesses were then called: Envy, Superstition, and Pickthank.

From Project Gutenberg

It is at best but a pettifogging, pickthank business to decompose actions into little personal motives, and explain heroism away.

From Project Gutenberg