Grovels

Grovels describes the act of behaving in an obsequious manner, especially to gain favor or forgiveness. It involves humbling oneself, often physically, by lying or crawling in a position of submission. This behavior typically stems from a desire for approval, self-preservation, or a perceived lower status in a power dynamic. Groveling can include excessive flattery, apologetic behavior, and a willingness to endure humiliation. The action implies a loss of dignity and self-respect, undertaken for a specific purpose.

Grovels meaning with examples

• After the scandal, the politician grovels to the press, offering extravagant apologies and making promises he'd never keep to regain public support. He knew that his career depended on salvaging his reputation, and he was willing to do anything to avoid further scrutiny and potentially legal action. This public display, some felt, was an insult to the truth of his actions, but the public was impressed.
• The employee, desperate to keep his job, grovels to the demanding manager, constantly agreeing with their every decision, even when he disagrees. He tolerates the harsh criticism and excessive workload, prioritizing his employment above his personal boundaries and self-respect. This sacrifice of integrity was, for him, necessary to support his family; to quit would devastate them.
• The dog grovels at the feet of its owner after misbehaving, whimpering and offering its belly in a gesture of apology. It hopes to be forgiven and avoid punishment, displaying a clear understanding of the consequences of its actions. This innate response to a perceived mistake shows a desire to maintain a positive relationship with the person they have learned to love and trust, even if there is no clear fault.
• The character, defeated and seeking mercy, grovels before the antagonist, begging for their life and offering to become their servant. He is willing to abandon his principles and endure indignity to survive the moment. The utter despair, and the willingness to compromise what made him powerful before, speaks to the power held by the antagonist, and the desperation felt by our hero.