kiss someone's ass

English

"Idol-Worship, or, The Way to Preferment" (1740)

Etymology

Said because the ass is considered vulgar and being willing to kiss another's is considered a sign of submission and patronage.

Pronunciation

• Audio (General Australian):

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Verb

kiss someone's ass (third-person singular simple present kisses someone's ass, present participle kissing someone's ass, simple past and past participle kissed someone's ass)

1. (idiomatic, slang) To flatter someone (especially a superior) in an obsequious manner, and to support their every opinion to gain their favor.

Related terms

• kiss ass

Translations

to flatter someone — see brownnose,‎ kiss ass

See also

• asskisser
• asslicker
• brownnose
• kiss someone's ring
• lick someone's ass
• suck up