1 B1 idiomatic informal
To behave in an excessively complimentary or servile way in order to gain favor, especially from someone in authority.
"Everyone could see he was kissing up to get promoted before the annual review."
kiss up
B1 informal intransitive
To try to gain favor by being overly flattering or obedient.
In plain English
To be extra nice to someone important so they will like you and give you things.
What does "kiss up" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Chiefly North American. Strongly negative connotation — implies dishonest or self-serving flattery. Often followed by 'to' when a specific target is named ('kiss up to the boss'). Common in school and workplace contexts.
Words that pair with "kiss up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
boss teacher manager always constantly trying to
How to conjugate "kiss up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
kiss up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
kisses up
he/she/it
Past simple
kissed up
yesterday
Past participle
kissed up
have + pp
-ing form
kissing up
continuous
Hear "kiss up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "kiss up"
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