bootlick

American  

[boot-lik] / ˈbutˌlɪk /

verb (used with object)

1. to seek the favor or goodwill of in a servile, degraded way; toady to.

   Synonyms:

   apple-polish, fawn, flatter

---

verb (used without object)

1. to be a toady.

   Synonyms:

   apple-polish, fawn, flatter

bootlick British  

/ ˈbuːtˌlɪk /

verb

1. informal to seek favour by servile or ingratiating behaviour towards (someone, esp someone in authority); toady

---

Other Word Forms

• bootlicker noun

Etymology

Origin of bootlick

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45; boot ¹ + lick

Example Sentences

"I've never been one of the authorities on bootlick."

From Dick Prescott's Third Year at West Point Standing Firm for Flag and Honor by Hancock, H. Irving (Harrie Irving)

"Bootlick, bootlick," I heard in murmurs all over the hall.

From The Harbor by Poole, Ernest

And you've got to play politics, bootlick your boss—all that.

From O. Henry Memorial Award Prize Stories of 1920 by Various

"Then how can you stand for a bootlick?" shot out Jordan angrily.

From Dick Prescotts's Fourth Year at West Point Ready to Drop the Gray for Shoulder Straps by Hancock, H. Irving (Harrie Irving)

"I don't stand for a bootlick," replied Cadet Stubbs.

From Dick Prescotts's Fourth Year at West Point Ready to Drop the Gray for Shoulder Straps by Hancock, H. Irving (Harrie Irving)