grovel
verb (used without object)
to humble oneself or act in an abject manner, as in great fear or utter servility.
groveling
-
present participleof grovel.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
That duo’s relationship is given an unfamiliar portrayal—Churchill groveling for American support, FDR being something of a swine, who never stops sneering at the French for 1940.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 5, 2026
They want illiterate, groveling serfs, who live in fear and don’t stick around too long.
From Salon ● Nov. 23, 2025
The protests in 2021 led to the clubs that backed out issuing groveling apologies to their fans for their part in the plans.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 21, 2023
In the heartstopping series finale of “Succession” on Sunday night, striving Midwesterner Tom Wambsgans was named chief executive of Waystar Royco, completing his transformation from groveling buffoon to business titan.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 29, 2023
As a result, Mr. Sharpe and Mr. Gitney’s remonstrances with the committee of investors were grown particularly groveling and obsequious.
From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party" by M.T. Anderson
