bootlick

[ boot-lik ]

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

/ ˈbuːtˌlɪk /

verb

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

Derived Forms

• ˈbootˌlicker, noun

Other Words From

• boot·lick·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bootlick¹

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

Example Sentences

You have to be a bit of a bootlick, and people will give you tips, which is against all scout rules.

From Project Gutenberg