What does TOADY mean?

Toady 1. Parts of Speech:

verb, noun

2. Definitions:

As a verb, toady means to be excessively obedient or flattering to someone in power, usually for personal gain. As a noun, it refers to a person who behaves in this manner.

3. Pronunciations:

US: /ˈtoʊdi/

UK: /ˈtəʊdi/

4. Origin and Usage:

The word toady comes from the noun toad-eater, which was used in the 17th century to describe a person hired to eat toads, which were believed to be poisonous, as a form of entertainment. The term later evolved to mean someone who flatters or ingratiates themselves to someone in power. The verb toady has been in use since the early 19th century.

5. Synonyms:

sycophant, flatterer, brown-noser, yes-man, bootlicker

6. Related Words:

flout, gloat, hoard, knead, plead

7. Example Sentences:

As a verb:

• He toadied to the boss in hopes of getting a promotion.
• She always toadies to the teacher in order to get better grades.

As a noun:

• He was known as the office toady, always trying to please the boss.
• She saw through the toadys flattery and refused to give him any special treatment.