sycophant crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "sycophant"? You've come to the right place! Discover all possible answers for this common crossword clue, complete with explanations and tips to help you master your next puzzle.
Solutions for "sycophant crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TOADY: One who flatters to gain advantage, often with a self-serving agenda.
6 Letters
LACKEY: A servile follower or subordinate, often used in a derogatory sense.
YESMAN: A person who agrees with everything that is said, especially out of sycophancy or fear.
9 Letters
FLATTERER: Someone who praises others excessively and insincerely, typically to gain personal favor.
10 Letters
BOOTLICKER: A highly informal and derogatory term for a sycophant, emphasizing obsequious and subservient behavior.
More About "sycophant crossword clue"
The term "sycophant" describes a person who uses excessive flattery or obedience to gain favor from someone important. In crossword puzzles, clues for "sycophant" are quite common, as the word has several concise and well-known synonyms that fit various letter counts. Understanding these synonyms can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
When you encounter a clue related to a sycophant, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it looking for a short, snappy answer like 'TOADY' or a longer, more descriptive term like 'FLATTERER'? The surrounding letters and other solved clues are crucial. This particular clue often appears in medium to challenging crosswords due to the nuanced meaning and the range of possible answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For "sycophant," clues might range from neutral ("fawning person") to highly derogatory ("bootlicker"). This can often guide you to the specific synonym needed.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the known letter count to potential answers. If you have 5 letters, 'TOADY' is a strong candidate; if 10, 'BOOTLICKER' might fit.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by ensuring it works perfectly with intersecting words. Even a single correct letter can unlock the solution.
- Think of Common Idioms: Terms like "yes-man" or "curry favor" are related concepts that can sometimes be indirect clues for sycophant-like answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does 'sycophant' mean?
A sycophant is a person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage. They are often characterized by excessive flattery and subservience, seeking personal gain rather than expressing genuine admiration.
What are common synonyms for 'sycophant' in crosswords?
Common crossword answers for 'sycophant' often include 'TOADY', 'LACKEY', 'MINION', 'FAWNER', 'YESMAN', 'FLATTERER', and 'BOOTLICKER'. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How can clue wording help identify a sycophant-related answer?
Clues might use phrases like 'fawning type', 'yes-man', 'bootlicker', 'obsequious one', 'flattering follower', or 'one who curries favor'. Pay attention to any indication of insincere praise or subservient behavior.