kissup

Kissup, also spelled kiss-up, is a slang term used as a noun and verb to describe a person who flatters someone in a position of authority in order to gain favor, privileges, or favorable treatment. The term carries a negative connotation and is often used pejoratively to imply insincerity or opportunistic behavior. As a verb, to kiss up to someone means to engage in flattering acts or comments directed at a superior or influential figure.

Usage and context

Kissups are commonly referenced in discussions of workplace dynamics, politics, and entertainment, where showing deference or excessive praise might be seen as a strategy to secure opportunities or avoid conflict. The phrase can be used humorously or critically, as in describing a coworker who frequently compliments the boss or a public figure who courteously flatters others to advance their own aims. Related terms with similar meaning include sycophant, brown-noser, and bootlicker, though these carry varying degrees of severity and nuance.

Etymology and variants

The expression is formed from the idea of physically kissing up toward someone in authority. It is primarily found in informal American English and has been in use since the mid-20th century. Variants include kiss-up and kiss up, with kissup sometimes used as a noun and kiss up as a verb phrase.

See also

Syсophant; brown-nose; bootlicker; flattery; workplace politics.