flunkyism

flunkyism

A senior executive dismisses a junior employee's flunkyism with a wave of his hand.

Definition

Noun: The practice or behavior of behaving like a flunky (a servant or follower who performs menial tasks or shows excessive deference to a superior). It refers to a servile, obsequious, or fawning attitude, often characterized by flattery or subservience to gain favor.

Usage Examples
  • (His servile behavior was clear.)
  • (The culture was full of fawning subservience.)
Advanced Usage
  • "to exhibit flunkyism": to display servile behavior.

    • The assistant's flunkyism made him unpopular with colleagues. (His obsequiousness made him disliked.)
  • "flunkyism in action": when such behavior is actively performed.

    • Flunkyism in action was seen when he carried the CEO's briefcase. (Servile behavior was demonstrated.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Flunky (n): a servant or person who performs menial tasks; also, a person who behaves obsequiously.

    • He acted as a flunky for the wealthy family. (He served as a menial attendant.)
  • Flunky-like (adj): resembling or characteristic of a flunky.

    • Her flunky-like smile was insincere. (Her smile was servile and fake.)
Synonyms
  • Servility: the quality of being submissive or obedient like a servant.
  • Obsequiousness: excessive willingness to please or obey.
  • Sycophancy: behavior of a sycophant; flattery for personal gain.
  • Bootlicking: informal term for fawning or flattering to gain favor.
Related Idioms
  • To kiss up to someone: to flatter or behave obsequiously toward a person in authority.

    • He is always kissing up to the manager. (He is constantly flattering the manager.)
  • To brown-nose: informal, to curry favor through flattery.

    • She brown-noses the professor to get better grades. (She flatters the professor for advantage.)