apple–polish

verb ap·ple–pol·ish \ˈa-pəl-ˌpä-lish\

Definition of APPLE-POLISH

intransitive verb

: to attempt to ingratiate oneself : toady

transitive verb

: to curry favor with (as by flattery)

— ap·ple–pol·ish·er noun

from the traditional practice of schoolchildren bringing a shiny apple as a gift to their teacher

First Known Use: 1935

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