verb
curry
To seek favor through flattery, especially in the phrase “curry favor.”
The courtier curries favor with the king through lavish praise.
Etymology
The verb originally concerns grooming. Curry favor reshaped an older expression about grooming Favel, a horse associated with deceit, into the modern idea of cultivating another’s goodwill.
More examples
- He curried favor with influential donors.
- They are currying favor with the new manager.
- She refused to curry favor by flattering him.
Forms
curry · curries · curried · currying
Similar words
- flatter
- Means praise, often insincere, without requiring a desired favor.
- ingratiate
- Usually requires oneself and means gaining someone's approval.