INGRATIATION Synonyms: 39 Similar and Opposite Words

ingratiation

noun

Definition of ingratiation

as in cajolery

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of ingratiation Even effective flattery or ingratiation may have limits, especially when the stakes are highest. — Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026 As was the case with the white-and-green dress for her Pakistan tour, Elizabeth, in her fashion choices, sought not only to avoid giving offense but to offer symbolic ingratiation, and among the most fascinating garments on display are those representing diplomatic dressing. — Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026 Each chapter discusses a specific sales element, which includes such topics as goal setting, prospecting, ingratiation and listening tactics, empathy and much more. — Larry D. Urish, Oc Register, 30 Jan. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ingratiation

Noun

Anthropic has conducted studies on its models’ undesirable behaviors, such as disempowerment and sycophancy.

— Matthew Sun, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2026
Anthropic's own researchers reached a similar conclusion in a paper presented at ICLR in 2024, finding that training on human preferences does not remove sycophancy and can encourage it, and that five leading assistants showed it consistently.

— Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of sycophancy

Noun

Research has shown that sincere praise can sometimes have social rewards.

— Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026
Aldermen gave initial approval Thursday to the sale of Chicago’s infamously privatized parking meter system from one owner to another, but not before praise for new perks met concerns that the city is once again getting a subpar deal.

— Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of praise

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ingratiation

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“Ingratiation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ingratiation. Accessed 28 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of ingratiation

noun

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