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backscratching

back scratcher
B b

Transcription

    • US Pronunciation
    • US IPA
    • \ˈbak-ˌskra-chiŋ\
    • US Pronunciation
    • US IPA
    • \ˈbak-ˌskra-chiŋ\

Definitions of backscratching word

  • noun backscratching a long-handled device for scratching one's own back. 1
  • noun backscratching a person who exchanges favors or services for mutual advantage. 1
  • noun backscratching The mutual providing of favors or services, especially when the legitimacy of such dealings is doubtful. 1

Information block about the term

Origin of backscratching

First appearance:

before 1785
One of the 44% newest English words
First recorded in 1785-95

Historical Comparancy

Parts of speech for Backscratching

noun
adjective
verb
adverb
pronoun
preposition
conjunction
determiner
exclamation

backscratching popularity

A pretty common term. Usually people know it’s meaning, but prefer to use a more spread out synonym. About 31% of English native speakers know the meaning and use word.
According to our data about 75% of words is more used. This is a rare but used term. It occurs in the pages of specialized literature and in the speech of educated people.

backscratching usage trend in Literature

This diagram is provided by Google Ngram Viewer

Synonyms for backscratching

verb backscratching

  • apple-polish — to curry favor with someone, especially in an obsequious or flattering manner.
  • bootlick — to seek favour by servile or ingratiating behaviour towards (someone, esp someone in authority); toady
  • curry favor — to try to win favor by flattery, fawning, etc.
  • flatter — to make flat.
  • toady — an obsequious flatterer; sycophant.

See also

Matching words

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