Fawner

A fawner is a person who tries to win favor or approval from someone, especially a superior, through flattery or insincere behavior. This individual often employs excessive praise, obsequious actions, and a generally servile demeanor to ingratiate themselves with those in positions of power or authority. The goal is usually to gain some personal advantage, whether it be a promotion, preferential treatment, or social standing. The behavior of a fawner is often perceived as inauthentic and manipulative, lacking genuine respect or admiration for the person they are flattering. The actions of a fawner are often based on personal insecurity, lack of self-confidence, and a willingness to compromise their own integrity for perceived benefits.

Fawner meaning with examples

• At the office, Brenda was known as a fawner. She would constantly agree with her boss, offer overly effusive praise for his decisions, and laugh obsequiously at his jokes, even when they weren't funny. Her colleagues, weary of her sycophantic behavior, often rolled their eyes, understanding her tactics to be driven by ambition for a promotion. The lack of genuine conversation was quite apparent.
• In the political arena, the candidate surrounded himself with fawners who constantly assured him of his brilliance and popularity, regardless of the truth. These individuals were more concerned with their own political careers, and providing the information the candidate wanted, not what was necessary. The fawners, therefore, created an echo chamber that clouded his judgement.
• During the celebrity gala, a group of aspiring actors acted as fawners, hoping to curry favor with the influential casting director. They would hang on her every word, lavish her with compliments about her clothing and accomplishments, and volunteer to run errands for her. The fawners were willing to compromise their dignity to gain a chance at securing a role.
• The young salesperson became a fawner to the senior partner, consistently agreeing with his sales strategies. The lack of his own input meant the senior partner didn't get vital insight into the ever changing marketplace. The fawner quickly reaped the rewards of the senior partner's generosity when he received a bonus. The ethical compromises began to outweigh the rewards.