CEFR C1

sycophantic

adjective

Meaning

Trying too hard to please someone in authority, especially by praising or complimenting them, in order to gain an advantage.

Examples

  • He was tired of his boss's sycophantic assistant.
  • Her sycophantic behavior towards the director was embarrassing to watch.

Synonyms: flattering, obsequious, servile, fawning