What does sycophant mean?
A sycophant is a person who praises or flatters someone, usually a person with power, in hopes of receiving favor, advancement, or protection. The word carries a strongly negative connotation: it suggests that the praise is excessive, calculated, and insincere rather than a straightforward compliment. In literature and everyday criticism, a sycophant is often pictured as someone who eagerly agrees with a superior and quietly serves the powerful person's interests. The related noun “sycophancy” names this pattern of behavior, while “sycophantic” describes speech, attitudes, or people marked by it. The word is especially associated with courts, workplaces, politics, and literary depictions of ambitious flatterers, although its meaning is not limited to those settings.
nounA person who flatters someone powerful, especially a person in authority, in order to gain favor or advantage. The term often implies excessive or insincere praise.
- A person who uses excessive flattery, especially to gain influence, favor, or protection from someone powerful.
"The executive surrounded himself with sycophants who praised every decision, regardless of its merits."
"He refused to be a sycophant and challenged the committee's proposal directly."
"The novel portrays a circle of sycophants competing for the prince's favor."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the singular form.
"The article claimed that the minister's advisers were sycophants who shielded him from criticism."
From an ancient Greek word meaning “fig-informer,” the modern sycophant began as someone who exposed concealed facts—before becoming the polished flatterer we know today.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sycophant come from?
“Sycophant” comes through Latin from Greek συκοφάντης (sykophantēs), formed from elements associated with sykon, “fig,” and phan-, “to show” or “reveal.” The literal Greek sense referred to an informer who disclosed hidden information, especially in legal contexts. Over time, the word developed figurative senses involving malignant or deceptive speech, and its modern association with flattering and ingratiating behavior became established in English during the 17th century.
Related word forms
How sycophant is actually used
Generally critical or disapproving. It is stronger and more insulting than simply “flatterer,” implying habitual, excessive, and often insincere praise. The related adjective “sycophantic” is commonly used before “flatterer,” “apology,” or “praise.”
Easily confused with sycophant
A sycophant is the person who flatters or ingratiates themselves, whereas sycophancy is the behavior or practice itself.