Conclusion
The phrase “apple-polished” is a commonly used term in the English language. It is often used to describe someone who is excessively eager to please or gain favor from someone in a position of authority. In this article, we will explore the meaning and origin of this phrase, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The term apple-polished is an adjective that describes someone who is overly eager to please or gain favor from someone in a position of authority. It can also refer to someone who is excessively flattering or obsequious.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “apple-polished” is unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the United States in the 19th century. The term “apple-polisher” was first used in the mid-1800s to refer to someone who would shine apples to make them look more appealing to potential buyers. Over time, the term evolved to refer to someone who would flatter or suck up to someone in a position of authority in order to gain favor.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of apple-polished is fairly consistent across different dictionaries. Merriam-Webster defines it as “marked by or exhibiting a fawning attentiveness.” Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “excessively eager to please or flatter someone in authority.” Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “trying too hard to please someone in authority, in a way that is not sincere.”
Associations
The term apple-polished is often associated with negative connotations, such as insincerity, flattery, and obsequiousness. It is often used to describe someone who is trying too hard to gain favor or approval from someone in a position of authority, often at the expense of their own integrity or values.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for apple-polished include sycophantic, obsequious, fawning, toadyish, ingratiating, and servile. These terms all describe someone who is excessively eager to please or gain favor from someone in a position of authority.
Antonyms
Antonyms of apple-polished include independent, self-assured, confident, assertive, and self-reliant. These terms describe someone who is not overly concerned with pleasing others or gaining favor from those in positions of authority.
The same root words
The root word of apple-polished is “apple-polisher,” which refers to someone who shines apples to make them look more appealing. The term “polish” also has a similar meaning, as it refers to the act of making something shiny or smooth.
Example Sentences
- John was always apple-polished around the boss, hoping to get a promotion.
- Sheila’s apple-polished behavior made her colleagues question her sincerity.
- The politician’s apple-polished speeches were met with skepticism by the public.
In conclusion, the term apple-polished is used to describe someone who is excessively eager to please or gain favor from someone in a position of authority. It is often associated with negative connotations, such as insincerity and obsequiousness. While the origin of the term is unclear, it is thought to have evolved from the term “apple-polisher,” which referred to someone who shined apples to make them look more appealing.