# fawning

/ˈfɔnɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈɔːnɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fawning
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

trying too hard to please someone important by praising them a lot. You do it to get something you want, like attention or help.

For teachers: excessively flattering or attentive in order to win favour or approval. Often describes praise, attention, or behaviour that seems insincere and self-serving.

## Examples

- She dislikes his fawning messages to the manager.
- The new assistant gives fawning compliments to every senior partner in hopes of a promotion.
- The biography avoids fawning praise and instead examines the leader's flaws with cool, even-handed judgment.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; also used predicatively after 'be'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.