crossword clue sycophant – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find all the possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "sycophant", helping you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "sycophant" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TOADY: A person who flatters and defers to others for self-serving reasons.
6 Letters
LACKEY: A servant, especially a deferential or servile one.
FAWNER: One who shows excessive flattery or deference to gain favor.
9 Letters
FLATTERER: A person who praises someone excessively and insincerely, especially to gain an advantage.
BROWNNOSE: To curry favor with someone by sycophantic behavior; an informal term for a sycophant.
More About "sycophant"
The term "sycophant" refers to a person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage. Originating from ancient Greek, where 'sykophantes' referred to an informer who revealed fig-smugglers (and later, anyone who made malicious accusations for personal gain), the word evolved to describe someone who unethically curries favor.
In modern usage, a sycophant is characterized by insincere praise, excessive deference, and a willingness to compromise their principles for personal benefit. This concept is often explored in literature, film, and, of course, crosswords, as it describes a recognizable human behavior.
When you encounter "sycophant" in a crossword clue, consider words that imply fawning, bootlicking, or excessive flattery, as these are common synonyms that fit various letter counts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For a clue like "sycophant," think about the subtle differences between flattery, subservience, and outright manipulation. This can guide you to the exact synonym needed.
- Consider Letter Count First: Before diving deep into definitions, check the provided letter count. This immediately narrows down your potential answers from a long list of synonyms.
- Look for Common Crossword Tropes: Crossword constructors often reuse certain words or types of clues. Words like TOADY, LACKEY, and FAWNER are very common short answers for sycophant-related clues.
- Context is Key: If the clue has additional words, like "Court sycophant" or "Office sycophant," these can hint at specific types of synonyms or even related terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sycophant in simple terms?
A sycophant is someone who excessively praises or flatters a powerful person to gain a personal advantage, often at the expense of their own dignity.
How does understanding the definition of 'sycophant' help in crosswords?
Knowing the precise meaning of 'sycophant' helps you identify synonyms like 'flatterer,' 'toady,' 'lackey,' or 'fawner,' which are common crossword answers. Look for clues that describe excessive praise, servility, or self-serving flattery.
Are there common themes or patterns for 'sycophant' clues?
Yes, clues for 'sycophant' often involve terms like 'bootlicker,' 'apple polisher,' 'yes-man,' or phrases indicating someone trying to gain favor through insincere praise or subservience. Contextual clues related to hierarchy or ambition are also common.