Etymology:
Meaning:
A person who tries to gain favor by flattering or toadying to someone in power or authority.
Origin:
The term "pickthank" originally referred to a person who secretly informed on others (often to gain favor with the authorities) or who flattered someone to gain an advantage. The word is derived from the idea of someone who "picks" at or undermines others to get ahead.
In the early 17th century, the term "pickthank" began to be used more broadly to refer to any person who tries to win favor by being obsequious or sycophantic. The term has continued to be used in this sense up to the present day.
Etymology Pick comes from the Middle English word pikken which is derived from the
Etymology Pike is derived from the Middle English word pike which is in turn derived
Etymology The word picked is derived from the Old English word piccan which means
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