Word of the Day : September 4, 2018

ingratiate \in-GRAY-shee-ayt\ verb

Definition

: to gain favor or favorable acceptance for by deliberate effort — usually used with with

Did You Know?

17th-century English speakers combined the Latin noun gratia, meaning "grace" or "favor," with the English prefix in- to create the verb ingratiate. When you ingratiate yourself, you are putting yourself in someone's good graces to gain their approval or favor. English words related to ingratiate include gratis and gratuity. Both of these reflect something done or given as a favor through the good graces of the giver.

Aired September 4, 2018

All Merriam-Webster content is available at www.merriam-webster.com