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

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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

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Other Word Forms

• bootlicker
  noun

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Etymology

Origin of bootlick

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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bootlick

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

From Boy Scouts in Glacier Park The Adventures of Two Young Easterners in the Heart of the High Rockies by Walter Prichard Eaton

He became a "bone," and tried so hard to delight his instructors that he was suspected of boning bootlick with the Academic Board.

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

Occasionally a cadet who wants cadet honors resorts to "boning bootlick" with the tactical officers stationed at the academy.

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

"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 H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock

Or a manufacturer and having to bootlick the buyers?

From Success A Novel by Samuel Hopkins Adams

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