sycophant
|syc/o/phant|
C1
/ˈsɪkəfənt/
flatterer for gain
Etymology
Etymology Information
'sycophant' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'sykophantes,' where 'sykon' meant 'fig' and 'phaino' meant 'to show.'
Historical Evolution
'sykophantes' transformed into the Latin word 'sycophanta,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sycophant' through Old French.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'an informer,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a flatterer or self-seeker.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage.
The manager surrounded himself with sycophants who praised his every decision.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/13 11:25