First Known Use: circa 1939
Dictionary
brownnose
verb brown·nose \ˈbrau̇(n)-ˌnōz\
: to try to get the approval of (an important or powerful person) by praise, flattery, etc.
Full Definition of BROWNNOSE
transitive verb
: to ingratiate oneself with : curry favor with
— brownnose noun
— brown·nos·er noun
See brownnose defined for English-language learners
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Origin of BROWNNOSE
from the implication that servility is equivalent to having one's nose in the anus of the person from whom advancement is sought
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