Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small pet dog: A dog that is sufficiently small and docile to be comfortably held on a person's lap.
   • A subservient person: A person who is completely under the control of, and eager to please, another more powerful person or group.

Usage

• The primary meaning refers to a literal, small breed of domestic dog.
• The figurative meaning is used to describe a person who is excessively obedient or servile, often for personal gain or favor.

Examples

• Literal (dog):
  • She carried her fluffy lapdog everywhere in a special bag.
  • The breed was originally developed as a companion and lapdog for nobility.
• Figurative (person):
  • The corrupt minister was nothing more than the dictator's lapdog.
  • Critics accused him of being a lapdog for the corporate lobbyists, never voting against their interests.

Advanced Usage

• The term is almost always pejorative when applied to a person, implying a lack of independence, courage, or integrity.
• It often appears in political or business commentary to criticize perceived sycophantic behavior.

Variants and Related Words

• Sycophant (n): A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
• Toady (n): A person who behaves flatteringly toward someone powerful.
• Minion (n): A follower or underling of a powerful person, especially one who executes orders without question.

Synonyms

• Literal: Toy dog, companion dog.
• Figurative: Puppet, stooge, lackey, flunky, yes-man.

Related Idioms

• To be someone's lapdog: To be completely subservient to someone.
  • He was tired of being the CEO's lapdog and decided to start his own company.

Noun

1. a dog small and tame enough to be held in the lap