ingratiatingly

Ingratiatingly describes behaviour that is excessively flattering, helpful, or pleasing in order to win someone's favour or approval. It is often used in a critical way, suggesting that the person is being insincerely charming or deliberately courteous for personal gain. For example, someone might be described as ingratiatingly attentive to a manager while being indifferent to everyone else. The word can describe politeness, praise, smiles, apologies, or offers of assistance, but its central implication is that the behaviour is calculated rather than sincere. It is a useful term for identifying social behaviour that is designed to please people, especially in workplaces, political settings, and social interactions. The related adjective is “ingratiating,” while the underlying verb is “ingratiate,” meaning to gain favour by pleasing or flattering someone.

In a manner intended to gain someone's favour or approval, especially by excessive flattery or pleasing behaviour.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does ingratiatingly come from?

The word comes from the verb “ingratiate,” which was formed in the early 17th century from the Latin “ingratia,” meaning “ungratefulness,” combined with the Latin “gratus,” meaning “pleasing” or “grateful.” The verb originally referred to making oneself pleasing to someone, and the modern sense of gaining favour by flattery developed from that usage. The family is related to words such as “grateful,” “gratitude,” and “gracious,” all of which come from the same Latin root.

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How ingratiatingly is actually used

The adverb is usually critical or disapproving. It implies that the flattery or pleasing behaviour is excessive and motivated by a desire for personal advantage.

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Words and phrases paired with ingratiatingly

Rhymes with ingratiatingly