verb
ingratiate
in-GRAY-shee-ayt/ɪnˈɡreɪʃieɪt/
To gain someone's favor through flattery or pleasing behavior.
He tries to ingratiate himself with his boss through constant praise.
Etymology
“In” and “favor” capture the aim of getting into someone’s good graces, here through deliberate flattery or helpfulness. The immediate source of the English verb is uncertain.
In context
couldn’t in any sort of way ingratiate himself.
More examples
- She ingratiated herself with the neighbors by offering to walk their dogs.
- Complimenting every suggestion won't ingratiate you with the committee.
- He's always ingratiating himself with customers in hopes of bigger tips.
Forms
ingratiate · ingratiates · ingratiated · ingratiating
ingratiating adjective — Intended to win approval or favor.
ingratiation noun — Deliberate efforts to win someone's favor.