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Definition of bootlick

bootlick

/ˈbuːt.lɪk/
boot · lick
Plural:bootlicks
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Adjective:bootlicking
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Past Simple:bootlicked
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Past Participle:bootlicked
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Present Participle:bootlicking
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bootlick Lexical Profile

bootlick Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To seek favor or advancement by acting in a servile, obsequious, or sycophantic manner toward someone in power.

Example

"He refused to bootlick the committee members just to secure the promotion."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person who behaves in a servile or obsequious manner toward someone in authority in order to gain favor; a sycophant or flatterer.

Example

"The office was full of ambitious bootlicks who agreed with every bad idea the director proposed."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for bootlick

• Nearby Words

bootlace
bootleg
bootlegger
bootlick
bootlicker
bootlicking
bootmaker

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-19th century as a back-formation from "bootlicker," evoking the figurative image of a servile person kissing or licking the boots of a superior.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bootlick. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bootlick
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