Dictionary entry

Sycophancy

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Syc″o‐phan‐cy (?), n. [Cf. L. sycophantia deceit, Gr. � false accusation.] The character or characteristic of a sycophant. Hence: -

(a) False accusation; calumniation; talebearing. Bp. Hall.

(b) Obsequious flattery; servility.

The sycophancy of A.Philips had prejudiced Mr. Addison against Pope. Bp. Warburton.