bootlick

[ boot-lik ]
/ ˈbutˌlɪk /

verb (used with object)

to seek the favor or goodwill of in a servile, degraded way; toady to.

verb (used without object)

to be a toady.

Origin of bootlick

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45; boot1 + lick

SYNONYMS FOR bootlick

1, 2 flatter, fawn; apple-polish.

OTHER WORDS FROM bootlick

boot·lick·er, noun

Words nearby bootlick

bootle, bootleg, bootleg play, bootlegged, bootless, bootlick, bootloader, boots, boots and all, boots and saddles, bootstrap

Example sentences from the Web for boot-licker

  • You'll see what a boot-licker he'll be after he puts on a collar.

    The Quest |Frederik van Eeden

British Dictionary definitions for boot-licker

bootlick
/ (ˈbuːtˌlɪk) /

verb

informal to seek favour by servile or ingratiating behaviour towards (someone, esp someone in authority); toady

Derived forms of bootlick

bootlicker, noun