Toady
mediumNegative toneTOH-dee
noun
Definition
A person who behaves obsequiously to those in power; a sycophant
Memory hook
A TOAD-y: like a slimy TOAD hopping after someone in power, eager to please.
Examples
“The boss was surrounded by toadies.”
“He refused to be a toady to anyone.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“He refused to be a ______ to anyone.”
Show answer
toady
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Toady is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "sycophant" or "flatterer" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "critic".
Related GRE Words
bootlicker
A person who behaves obsequiously to gain favor; a sycophant
sycophant
A person who acts obsequiously to gain advantage; a flatterer
fawning
Displaying exaggerated flattery or affection; obsequious
ingratiating
Intended to gain approval or favor; sycophantic
unctuous
Excessively flattering or ingratiating; oily
boorish
rude, ill-mannered, and insensitive
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