Bootlicking

/ˈbuːtlɪkɪŋ/ adjective, noun

The act of behaving obsequiously or showing excessive flattery to someone in power; alternatively, the adjective form describing someone who engages in this behavior.

From 'bootlick' + '-ing' gerund/present participle suffix. The concept of excessive servility has ancient roots, but this specific colorful term is distinctly American.

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