BROWN NOSE Meaning and
Definition
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Brown nose is a slang term used to describe a person who excessively flatters and seeks favor from someone to gain a personal or professional advantage. Also known as a "bootlicker" or "ass-kisser," a brown nose is an individual who ingratiates themselves to someone in a higher position, often to the point of obsequiousness or fawning behavior. This behavior is typically aimed at obtaining promotions, special treatment, or privileged access to opportunities.
The term derives from the image of a person who figuratively bends down and puts their nose in another person's rear end, imitating a canine's act of sniffing something unpleasant. The metaphor implies that the brown nose is willing to stoop to unscrupulous levels, sacrificing integrity and self-respect in exchange for personal gain.
Those who engage in brown-nosing behavior often express excessive admiration and agreement with the person they are trying to impress. They may shower them with insincere compliments, overly agreeable statements, or perform excessive acts of service. These actions are often seen as disingenuous and manipulative, undermining trust and creating a negative perception of the brown noser.
The term "brown nose" is generally used pejoratively to criticize individuals who prioritize personal gain over authenticity and honesty. It suggests a lack of genuine character and integrity, as brown-nosers are often willing to compromise their values in pursuit of their self-interests.
Common Misspellings for BROWN NOSE
- browen-nose
- vrown nose
- nrown nose
- hrown nose
- grown nose
- beown nose
- bdown nose
- bfown nose
- btown nose
- b5own nose
- b4own nose
- briwn nose
- brkwn nose
- brlwn nose
- brpwn nose
- br0wn nose
- br9wn nose
- broqn nose
- broan nose
- brosn nose
Etymology of BROWN NOSE
The etymology of the phrase "brown nose" is believed to be a combination of two separate ideas. The term "brown" alludes to feces or excrement, while "nose" refers to the anatomical feature. The phrase "brown nose" originated in the early 20th century and was mostly used in North America.
The term is believed to have emerged from the act of literally physically getting close to someone's posterior, specifically in the context of flattery or to gain favor. When someone is excessively ingratiating or tries to gain favor by praising or flattering another person, they can be metaphorically associated with the physical action of a brown nose.
It is also worth noting that alternative terms like "ass-kisser" or "sycophant" convey a similar meaning, demonstrating subservience or excessive flattery.
Idioms with the word BROWN NOSE
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brown nose
To "brown nose" means to excessively flatter or fawn over someone in order to gain favor or advancement, often to an insincere or obsequious degree. It is typically used in a derogatory sense to describe someone who is overly eager to please authority figures.
Similar spelling words for BROWN NOSE
- Bren Gun,
- brown sauce,
- Brownson,
- brown creeper,
- brown cup,
- brown ash,
- brown-nose,
- brown oak,
- brown coal,
- briones,
- brownness,
- brownstone,
- Brown Swiss.
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