1
as in currying favor
to use flattery or the doing of favors in order to win approval especially from a superior
a young lieutenant constantly sucking up to the commanding officer
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sucking (up)
Verb
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Your son is fussing in his car seat.—
Elizabeth Bruenig,
The Atlantic,
12 Feb. 2026 -
Emma looked around, confused at the adults fussing around him and too young, perhaps, to grasp the severity of the scene.—
Maeva Bambuck,
CNN Money,
1 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Meteorologist Amber Lee recommends drinking plenty of water, taking breaks when needed and avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours.—
Chelsea Hylton,
CBS News,
12 Mar. 2026
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The Aurora Police Department is also encouraging residents to designate a sober driver before heading out, never let a friend drive impaired, always wear a seat belt and use a ride-share service, taxi or public transportation if drinking.—
Aurora Beacon-News,
Chicago Tribune,
12 Mar. 2026
Verb
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Then, floodplains will play a critical role in absorbing runoff and pollutants.—
Charlotte Observer,
Charlotte Observer,
11 Mar. 2026
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As absorbing as the debate has been, technology appears to be settling it without much regard to the feelings of the old guard.—
Jack Dolan,
Los Angeles Times,
11 Mar. 2026
Verb
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Even a small amount, whether inhaled or absorbed through the skin, can lead to drooling, vomiting, tremors, or difficulty breathing.—
Mary Cornetta,
Better Homes & Gardens,
3 Mar. 2026
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His first swing of spring training showcased the kind of pop that has kept the Yankees drooling.—
Brendan Kuty,
New York Times,
3 Mar. 2026
Verb
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Rather than having cluttered and mismatched products taking up precious space, Hamid recommends unifying products.—
Stephanie Osmanski,
Better Homes & Gardens,
4 Mar. 2026
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Parking and taking up numerous spots is obviously an issue.—
Karoline Leonard,
Austin American Statesman,
25 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Sucking (up).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sucking%20%28up%29. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.
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