Definition

A person who flatters or praises someone excessively, often to gain favor or advantage.

Example

The fawner always complimented the boss to get a promotion.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people are such fawners around the boss?

Yeah, it can be pretty cringe to watch.

I just don’t understand why they feel the need to act that way.

Right? It’s like they think it will get them ahead, but it usually backfires.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fawner is derived from the verb 'fawn' (from Old English 'fagnian', meaning to rejoice or to show affection) combined with the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A fawner is a person who shows excessive affection or flattery, often to gain favor.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'shows affection' ('fagnian') to gain favor — that's why a fawner is someone who flatters excessively.

Visually Confused Words