Word a Day
sycophant
What does sycophant mean?
sycophant (noun): one who uses obsequious compliments to gain self-serving favor or advantage from another; a servile flatterer.
Definition: Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
How do you use sycophant in a sentence?
- He was a sycophant, always trying to ingratiate himself with the wealthy. (Tatoeba sentence #12421449 by ddnktr, CC BY 2.0 FR)
Where does sycophant come from?
From Latin sȳcophanta (“informer, trickster”), from Ancient Greek συκοφάντης (sukophántēs), itself from σῦκον (sûkon, “fig”) + φαίνω (phaínō, “to show, demonstrate”).
Etymology: Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Words related to sycophant
From Princeton WordNet 3.1.
Test yourself: do you know “sycophant”?
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What does “sycophant” mean?
something that is the center of attention; an object that serves as a focal point of attraction and admiration
Not quite: that's what cynosure means.
the act of doing or representing in an excessive manner; a going beyond the bounds of truth, reason, or justice
Not quite: that's what exaggeration means.
skillfulness or extraordinary ability in a particular area of expertise; dexterity, mastery, or proficiency
Not quite: that's what prowess means.
one who uses obsequious compliments to gain self-serving favor or advantage from another; a servile flatterer
Right! That's what “sycophant” means.
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