Definitions

sycophancy

[sik-uh-fuhn-see, -fan-, sahy-kuh-] / ˈsɪk ə fən si, -ˌfæn-, ˈsaɪ kə- /

NOUN

self-seeking or servile flattery

Synonyms

STRONGEST

toadyism

STRONG

adulation blandishment fawning flattery laudation magnification obsequiousness wheedling

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sycophancy has been reduced further in Opus 4.8, its most recent model, the company said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 27, 2026

"Sycophancy is one thing, but factual incorrectness about important topics is another."

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Sycophancy is particularly risky when you’re dealing with factual information.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

Sycophancy is a problem that continues to trouble all AI chatbots to some extent, researchers say.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 10, 2026

Sycophancy was as acceptable as real regard, since each catered to his vanity.

From The Lady Doc by Lockhart, Caroline