Definition

Noun: A person who acts in an excessively flattering or obsequious manner towards someone in order to gain favor or approval. This behavior involves showing exaggerated deference, often by humbling oneself and acting as if one has no self-respect.

Usage

The term "fawner" is used to describe a person whose behavior is characterized by servile flattery. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying insincerity and a lack of dignity.

Examples

• The manager was surrounded by fawners who agreed with every idea he had, no matter how bad.
• She saw through the fawner's compliments, recognizing them as a transparent attempt to get a promotion.
• He refused to be a fawner, choosing to give his honest opinion instead of just telling the king what he wanted to hear.

Advanced Usage

• "To fawn" (verb): The related verb form describes the act of behaving like a fawner.
  • He was accused of fawning over the celebrity in hopes of getting a photo.
• Conceptual Use: The term can be used more broadly to criticize a culture or atmosphere of excessive flattery.
  • The court was a den of intrigue and fawners.

Variants and Related Words

• Fawn (verb): To act in a servilely flattering manner.
• Fawning (adjective): Describing behavior that is characteristic of a fawner (e.g., ).
• Sycophant (noun): A very close synonym for fawner.
• Toady (noun): Another synonym, often implying a less sophisticated form of flattery.

Synonyms

• Sycophant
• Toady
• Flatterer
• Bootlicker
• Yes-man
• Lackey

Antonyms

• Straight talker
• Critic
• Adversary
• Independent thinker

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Kiss up to" (phrasal verb): An informal phrase meaning to flatter or fawn over someone.
  • He's always kissing up to the boss.
• "Bow and scrape": To behave in an excessively deferential manner.
  • I won't bow and scrape for anyone.

Noun

1. someone who humbles himself as a sign of respect; who behaves as if he had no self-respect