ingratiate
UK: ɪnˈɡreɪʃieɪt | US: ɪnˈɡreɪʃieɪt
vt. to gain favor or approval by deliberate effort, often through flattery or pleasing behavior
The word "ingratiate" originates from the Latin ingratiatus, the past participle of ingratiari, meaning "to bring oneself into favor." It combines in- (into) and gratia (favor, kindness). The root grati reflects the concept of pleasing or gratitude, while the suffix -ate forms a verb. Historically, it described the act of currying favor, often through calculated charm or flattery. The term retains this nuanced, sometimes manipulative connotation in modern usage.
She tried to ingratiate herself with the boss by complimenting his leadership.
Politicians often ingratiate voters with promises during campaigns.
His attempts to ingratiate were so obvious that they backfired.
The new employee ingratiated colleagues by offering help on projects.
Writers sometimes ingratiate critics by acknowledging their influence.