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Yes-man
01
a person who agrees with everything said by someone in power to gain favor
Disapproving
Informal
Grammatical Information
animacy status
human
Composition
Compound
countable
plural form
yes-men
What is the origin of the term "yes-man" and how is it used?
"Yes-man" is a slang term for a person who agrees with everything said by someone in power to gain favor. It appeared in English in the early 20th century, likely in business and political contexts, combining "yes" (affirmation) with "man" to describe someone habitually compliant. The term is used in informal, critical, or descriptive contexts to highlight obsequiousness or lack of independent judgment. It is mildly derogatory, signaling opportunism or sycophancy, but not vulgar.
Examples
The boss spoke and the yes-man nodded immediately.
