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lapdog

noun

/ˈlæpˌdɔg/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of lapdog

An individual or entity that is excessively submissive, obedient, or unquestioningly supportive of another person or organization.
"She was tired of being treated like a lapdog, always expected to do whatever her boss demanded."

Detailed meaning of lapdog

Similar to a small dog sitting docilely in its owner's lap, a lapdog in this context willingly and uncritically carries out the bidding or follows the instructions of those in power or influence, often at the expense of their own independent thinking or principles. They may lack the courage or willingness to challenge the status quo, instead preferring to maintain a comfortable relationship with their dominant counterpart. This term implies a lack of autonomy or assertiveness, suggesting that the lapdog is essentially controlled or heavily influenced by their master, losing their own identity in the process.

Example sentences containing lapdog

1. The CEO's assistant was nothing more than a lapdog, always carrying out his orders without question.
2. The political party members acted like lapdogs, blindly supporting their leader's every decision.
3. The media outlet was accused of being a lapdog, as it consistently promoted the government's agenda without critical analysis.
4. The company's board of directors acted as lapdogs, rubber-stamping all decisions made by the CEO.
5. He had surrounded himself with lapdogs, ensuring that his power and influence remained unchallenged.
6. The senator accused his opponent of being a lapdog to special interest groups, lacking independent judgment.

History and etymology of lapdog

The noun 'lapdog' originates from the combination of two words: 'lap' and 'dog.' The term 'lap' has its roots in Old English 'læppa,' which referred to the fold or flap of clothing, and later came to signify the area where one's legs meet when sitting. 'Dog,' on the other hand, stems from the Old English word 'docga,' which meant a powerful breed of canine. In the context of 'lapdog,' the word 'dog' doesn't refer to the literal animal but rather metaphorically describes an individual or entity that is excessively submissive, obedient, or unquestioningly supportive of another person or organization. Thus, the etymology of 'lapdog' encapsulates the notion of someone who figuratively sits obediently and closely at another's side, much like a loyal pet in one's lap.

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Further usage examples of lapdog

1. The journalist was determined not to be a lapdog for the government, seeking to uncover the truth regardless of the consequences.
2. The organization's members were disillusioned with their leaders, feeling they had become mere lapdogs to corporate interests.
3. She refused to become a lapdog, standing up for her principles even when it meant going against the prevailing opinion.
4. The artist rejected offers from major labels, determined not to become a lapdog of the music industry.
5. The professor encouraged critical thinking, urging his students not to be lapdogs but to question authority and explore alternative viewpoints.
6. He's often seen as a lapdog to the company's CEO.
7. The politician was criticized for being a corporate lapdog.
8. Some consider the media outlet a government lapdog.
9. She refuses to be anyone's lapdog; she's fiercely independent.
10. The board of directors needs a leader, not a lapdog.
11. The singer's manager was accused of being a lapdog.
12. He's more of a lapdog than a team player at the office.
13. The diplomat's critics label him a lapdog to foreign interests.
14. The loyal assistant was accused of being the boss's lapdog.
15. A good leader seeks advisors, not just lapdogs.
16. The writer won't become a publisher's lapdog for success.
17. She's not interested in being a celebrity's lapdog.
18. The professor encouraged critical thinking, not lapdog behavior.
19. The company's policies turned employees into mere lapdogs.
20. He refused to be a lapdog for the controlling manager.
21. True friends support, not just act as lapdogs.
22. The attorney was seen as a lapdog to the wealthy client.
23. The athlete's agent was often called a lapdog by critics.
24. The student valued independence over being a teacher's lapdog.
25. The actor was determined not to be a studio's lapdog.