ingratiation

Definitions

The act of deliberately trying to gain someone's favor or approval, often through flattery or sycophancy.

A psychological strategy in which an individual attempts to become more attractive or likeable to their target.

Examples

The intern's constant ingratiation toward the manager was transparent and somewhat off-putting to the rest of the team.

He relied on subtle ingratiation to climb the corporate ladder, always complimenting his superiors at every opportunity.

Her attempts at ingratiation failed to win over the skeptical committee members who valued merit over flattery.

Synonyms

flattery fawning obsequiousness sycophancy adulation wheedling toadying

Antonyms

aloofness detachment indifference sincerity bluntness defiance independence