Toady

TOH-dee

Definition

  1. (noun) A person who flatters or acts excessively submissive to gain favor with someone in power.
  2. (verb) To behave in a sycophantic or obsequious manner.

Example

The ambitious intern was seen as a toady, constantly praising the boss in hopes of a promotion.

Fun Fact

“Toady” originates from the term “toad-eater,” referring to 18th-century traveling performers who faked curing toad poisoning—a trick used by charlatans to sell their remedies. The assistant, or “toad-eater,” was the one who pretended to eat the poisonous toad to make the so-called cure seem miraculous. Over time, the phrase evolved into “toady,” meaning someone who fawns over powerful figures for personal gain.

Previous Words

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