Adulation is a word that is often used to describe excessive praise or flattery. It is a term that is often associated with sycophancy or fawning behavior. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and associations of the word adulation.
Definitions
Adulation is defined as excessive or insincere praise. It is often used to describe flattery or fawning behavior, especially when it is done for personal gain. Adulation can also refer to the act of worshiping or idolizing someone or something.
Origin
The word adulation comes from the Latin word “adulatio,” which means flattery or excessive praise. The term was first used in English in the 14th century, and it has been used ever since to describe excessive or insincere praise.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, adulation is “excessive or slavish admiration or flattery.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines adulation as “excessive or insincere praise or flattery.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines adulation as “the act of praising someone too much, often in a way that is not sincere.”
Associations
Adulation is often associated with sycophancy, flattery, and fawning behavior. It is often used to describe people who are trying to gain favor or influence with someone else by excessively praising them. Adulation can also be associated with idol worship or hero worship.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of adulation include flattery, praise, worship, idolization, and hero worship.
Antonyms
Antonyms of adulation include criticism, condemnation, disapproval, and censure.
The same root words
The root word of adulation is “adulare,” which means to flatter or fawn. Other words that come from the same root include adulterate, which means to make impure, and adult, which refers to a fully grown person.
Example Sentences
- The politician was known for his ability to inspire adulation from his supporters.
- The celebrity was uncomfortable with the adulation he received from his fans.
- The teacher warned her students about the dangers of adulation and flattery.
- The coach was wary of the adulation his team was receiving from the media.
- The author was surprised by the adulation he received for his first novel.