adulate

American  

[aj-uh-leyt] / ˈædʒ əˌleɪt /

verb (used with object)

adulated, adulating

1. to show excessive admiration or devotion to; flatter or admire servilely.

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adulate British  

/ ˈædjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to flatter or praise obsequiously

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Other Word Forms

• adulation noun
• adulator noun

Etymology

Origin of adulate

First recorded in 1770–80; back formation from adulation

Example Sentences

The behaviour towards the European team during this week's practice rounds, held in a family-friendly atmosphere, has been largely respectful and adulating.

From BBC

Mr Tomkinson said he missed the now adulated head coach after Wolves' game against Ipswich, so he was excited when his door staff told him on Sunday "the big man is coming".

From BBC

“It’s a difficult moment for the monarchy because it’s going through this period of transition from being adulated as a default position to now being questioned and challenged in new ways,’’ Owens said.

From Seattle Times

“On the one hand, I’m being adulated as this, you know, iconic figure, this person that everyone recognizes now, and knows. Which is fine. I can’t be distracted by that,” he said in an interview.

From Seattle Times

Burstein is not here simply to commiserate or adulate, though the film necessarily serves measures of both.

From Washington Post