English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Apple polisher
Meaning
An "apple polisher" is someone who is overly eager to please or fawn over someone, often to the point of insincerity. It is a derogatory term used to describe someone who is willing to say or do anything to gain favor or approval.
Usage
- "John's new assistant is such an apple polisher; she's always eager to please him even when it means sacrificing her own work."
- "Don't be an apple polisher, just tell me the truth about what happened."
- "I can't stand people who are apple polishers; they're so fake and insincere."
- "The CEO is notorious for being an apple polisher; he only praises his employees when he wants something from them."
- "I try to be honest with my clients, but sometimes they act like apple polishers and I can't help but feel uncomfortable."
Roots and History
The origin of the term "apple polisher" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 19th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of polishing apples to make them more appealing to potential buyers, which could be seen as an insincere attempt to manipulate or deceive people. Another theory suggests that it may come from the idea of someone being "polished" or well-liked by others, but only because they are willing to do whatever it takes to gain favor.
Synonyms in English
- Brown-noser
- Kiss-up
- Suck-up
- Sycophant
- Smoocher
Synonyms in other languages
- 狗鬣者 (Japanese) - someone who is overly eager to please or fawn over someone, often to the point of insincerity
- 蹓狱者 (Chinese) - someone who is willing to do anything to gain favor or approval
- 꼈거나 냥게 하는 사람 (Korean) - someone who is overly eager to please or fawn over someone, often to the point of insincerity
- تو즈아짱 (Spanish) - someone who is overly eager to please or fawn over someone, often to the point of insincerity
- 꼬거나 탕이라고 뜻하는 단어 (Portuguese) - someone who is overly eager to please or fawn over someone, often to the point of insincerity