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

from the implication that servility is equivalent to having one's nose in the anus of the person from whom advancement is sought

First Known Use: circa 1939

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