Adulation

Adulation is excessive flattery or admiration, often to an obsequious degree. It's a form of praise that goes beyond genuine appreciation, veering into fawning behavior, typically motivated by a desire for personal gain or to appease someone in a position of power. The focus is often on the recipient's perceived qualities, even if exaggerated or fabricated, rather than on sincere respect. adulation can be insincere and, in some cases, manipulative, used to curry favor, obtain benefits, or maintain a specific social standing. The practice highlights the importance of discerning genuine appreciation from shallow, self-serving praise, encouraging critical assessment of the motivations behind the expressions of admiration. It contrasts sharply with respectful, deserved praise and stands distinct from honest criticism or genuine affection, being excessive to the point of appearing almost absurd.

Adulation meaning with examples

• The celebrity, accustomed to adulation, thrived on the constant stream of compliments from fans and the press. Everywhere she went, people would offer their adulation for her talent and beauty. Every time she received an award she was showered with love, and even a smile from her would become an adoration from all. This constant barrage of praise, however, distanced her from honest feedback and made her increasingly isolated.
• In the court of the king, adulation was the currency of survival. Courtiers would engage in elaborate displays of adulation, praising the king's every decision, even when they were clearly flawed. The ministers and officials would flatter the king at every available opportunity. Such behavior created an environment where truth was suppressed, and power was concentrated, eventually leading to poor governance and potential instability.
• The political campaign relied heavily on adulation to build support. Speeches were crafted to evoke feelings of admiration and excitement, but also played to insecurities and created a cult of personality around the candidate. This approach often involved the over-simplification of complex issues, creating an emotional response which prevented any critical analysis or debate within the party.
• The young artist, new to the art scene, initially reveled in the adulation of critics who praised his work. However, he soon realized the praise was often superficial, failing to provide constructive criticism. His work was very well-received, and this adoration from the art world fueled his ego, making him closed off to criticism, and hindering his artistic growth over time.
• The cult leader, skillfully manipulating his followers, fostered an environment of constant adulation. They were required to constantly offer their praise. Everything the cult leader said and did was to be worshipped. Any dissent or independent thought was seen as a betrayal. This constant barrage of praise and admiration served to reinforce the leader's power and control over the members.