Toadyism Meaning and Definition
Toadyism
Pronunciation
/ˈtəʊdiɪzəm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A tendency to fawn or curry favor with those in authority or power, often done insincerely or for personal gain.
Examples
- The politician’s toadyism towards big business donors raised suspicions among his constituents.
- He was criticized for his toadyism towards his superior, which undermined his credibility among colleagues.
- The company’s toadyism towards its largest shareholder led to accusations of corporate welfare.
Synonyms
- Sycophancy
- Tributism
Antonyms
- Independence
- Integrity
Etymology
Toadyism originates from the term “toady,” a historical reference to a person who served as a sycophant or yes-man to a powerful individual.
Usage Notes
When using the term toadyism, it’s important to maintain a neutral tone to avoid coming across as overly critical or accusatory.
Cultural References
Toadyism has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Toady to power”
- “Sucking up to authority”
Related Words or Phrases
- Sycophancy
- Courtierism
Collocations
- Toadyism and corruption
- Toadyism and exploitation
Frequency of Use
While not a commonly used term in everyday conversation, toadyism is occasionally referenced in academic or professional settings.
Common Misspellings
- Todayism
- Toadiesm