flunkey
/flunkey/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A person who performs menial tasks or runs errands; a servant, especially a liveried footman. This meaning emphasizes a role of subservience, often involving uniformed domestic service. 2. A person who behaves in an obsequious or servile manner towards those in authority; a toady or sycophant. This figurative meaning criticizes someone who shows excessive obedience or flattery to gain favor.
Examples
- Literal meaning (servant):
- The flunkey in a powdered wig announced the arrival of each guest.
- He worked his way up from being a mere flunkey in the kitchen to the head chef.
- Figurative meaning (obsequious person):
- He was nothing more than a corporate flunkey, always agreeing with the boss no matter how foolish the idea.
- The politician was surrounded by flunkeys who never dared to contradict him.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used pejoratively to imply a lack of dignity, independence, or critical thought in the person described.
- It can describe someone who is not just obedient but ostentatiously eager to serve those in power.
Variants and Related Words
- Flunky: An alternative, common spelling of .
- Lackey (n): A very close synonym, carrying the same dual meanings of servant and sycophant.
- Toady (n): Specifically refers to a person who flatters and ingratiates themselves with someone powerful.
- Stooge (n): A person who serves merely to assist another, often in a dishonest or subservient capacity.
Synonyms
- Servant
- Footman
- Lackey
- Underling
- Minion
- Sycophant
- Toady
- Yes-man
Related Phrases
- To play the flunkey: To act in a servile or obsequious manner.
- He was tired of having to play the flunkey just to keep his job.
Noun
- a person of unquestioning obedience
- a male servant (especially a footman)