sycophancy

Definitions

The act or practice of behaving in an obsequious way toward someone important in order to gain advantage.

Servile flattery or fawning behavior.

Examples

The politician's rise to power was fueled by the blatant sycophancy of his advisors.

I found it difficult to stomach the constant sycophancy displayed by the interns toward the CEO.

True leadership is often obscured by the sycophancy of those who fear telling the boss the truth.

Synonyms

adulation fawning obsequiousness servility toadyism flattery ingratiation

Antonyms

assertiveness independence defiance insubordination candor frankness autonomy