brownnose

/ˈbraʊnnoʊz/

Definitions

1. noun

A person who tries to win favor or gain an advantage by flattering people in a way that is considered insincere or servile.

“After the promotion, his former colleague became a brownnose, constantly trying to impress the new boss.”

2. verb

To try to win favor or gain an advantage by flattering someone in a way that is considered insincere or servile.

“She was accused of brownnosing her way to the top of the company, but her colleagues doubted her sincerity.”

Synonyms

  • flatterer
  • sycophant
  • yes-man

Antonyms

  • principled person
  • stand-up individual