“Adulation” refers to excessive praise or flattery. Here are some synonyms and how they compare:
1. Flattery
- Meaning: The act of praising someone insincerely, usually to gain favor. For example, “His flattery of the boss was so obvious that it made others uncomfortable.” The difference between “flattery” and “adulation” is that “flattery” can sometimes be more calculated and less extreme. “Adulation” often implies a more fawning and over - the - top kind of praise.
2. Praise
- Meaning: Expressing approval or admiration for someone or something. For example, “The praise she received for her work was well - deserved.” However, “praise” is a more general term. It can be sincere and based on actual merit, while “adulation” tends to have an element of over - enthusiasm or even idol - worship.
3. Adoration
- Meaning: Deep love, worship, or extreme admiration. For example, “The fans’ adoration of the pop star was unwavering.” “Adoration” is closer to “adulation” in the sense of intense admiration, but it often has a more emotional and affectionate tone, whereas “adulation” can sometimes come across as more sycophantic.
4. Fawning
- Meaning: Displaying exaggerated affection or servility to gain approval. For example, “The fawning behavior of the courtiers around the king was sickening.” “Fawning” is very similar to “adulation” as it implies a kind of subservient and over - eager praise.
5. Idolization
- Meaning: The act of regarding someone as an idol and giving them excessive admiration. For example, “The idolization of movie stars can lead to unrealistic expectations.” “Idolization” is related to “adulation” in that both involve an extreme form of admiration, but “idolization” focuses more on the elevation of a person to an almost god - like status.