servile follower crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're wrestling with the clue "servile follower" in your daily puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "servile follower crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TOADY: A person who flatters and defers to others in an obsequious way, typically in order to gain advantage.
6 Letters
MINION: A follower or underling of a powerful person, especially a subservient or unimportant one.
LACKEY: A servant, especially a liveried footman or a sycophantic follower.
8 Letters
HANGERON: A person who associates with a group or individual in a dependent or subordinate way.
9 Letters
SYCOPHANT: A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage.
More About "servile follower crossword clue"
The term "servile follower" often appears in crosswords to describe individuals who display excessive obedience or subservience, usually in hopes of gaining favor or personal benefit. These characters are typically depicted as lacking self-respect and independent will, preferring to echo the opinions and desires of a more powerful individual or group. Understanding this core meaning is key to cracking related crossword clues.
Crossword setters love clues that evoke strong imagery or a specific type of personality. "Servile follower" fits this perfectly, leading to answers that paint a picture of someone who is spineless, obsequious, or simply an underling. Recognizing the nuances between words like 'minion' (a general subordinate), 'toady' (a flatterer), and 'sycophant' (an extreme flatterer for gain) can refine your puzzle-solving skills and help you pick the precise answer needed.
Such clues test your vocabulary related to human character traits and social dynamics. Always consider if the answer fits the degree of subservience implied. A 'hanger-on' might be merely dependent, while a 'sycophant' actively manipulates through flattery, both falling under the umbrella of a servile follower but with different shades of meaning and common usage.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "servile follower," consider the exact shade of meaning. Is it just someone who follows, or someone who follows servilely? This helps distinguish between general followers and those who are overly submissive.
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the given letter count to narrow down your options immediately. If you have "servile follower" and 5 blanks, 'TOADY' is a strong candidate, whereas 'SYCOPHANT' (9 letters) would be out.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it interacts with other words. Fill in letters from crossing clues to see if your chosen "servile follower" solution fits perfectly.
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Think broadly about synonyms. Words describing flattery, obedience, dependence, or low status can all be relevant. Don't limit yourself to direct dictionary synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'servile follower' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'servile follower' refers to someone who is excessively eager to please or obey others, often for personal gain. It implies a lack of independent thought and a willingness to act as a subordinate or flatterer. Common answers often include words like TOADY, MINION, LACKEY, or SYCOPHANT.
Are there common synonyms for 'servile follower' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include 'flatterer,' 'yes-man,' 'bootlicker,' 'fawner,' 'stooge,' 'lackey,' 'minion,' and 'sycophant.' The specific answer depends on the number of letters and any intersecting letters you might have already solved.
How do I choose the correct answer when multiple options fit the 'servile follower' clue?
When faced with multiple potential answers for 'servile follower,' always check the intersecting letters first. These crossing words will help eliminate incorrect options. Also, consider the puzzle's theme or the setter's typical style, as some setters prefer certain types of vocabulary.