Grovel meaning

Grovel means to bend or stoop low in a subservient way to someone in order to obtain forgiveness or favor.


Grovel definitions

Word backwards levorg
Part of speech The word "grovel" is a verb.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "grovel" is gro-vel.
Plural The plural form of the word "grovel" is "grovels."
Total letters 6
Vogais (2) o,e
Consonants (4) g,r,v,l

When someone grovels, they are showing excessive humility, often to the point of debasing themselves. The act of groveling involves begging, pleading, or seeking forgiveness in a servile manner. It can be seen as a form of extreme submission or humiliation.

The Psychology of Groveling

Groveling often stems from a deep sense of guilt, shame, or fear of consequences. It can also be a way to regain favor, approval, or forgiveness from someone in a position of power or authority. In some cases, individuals may grovel to manipulate or control others by eliciting sympathy or mercy.

Characteristics of Groveling

Common characteristics of groveling include bowing, scraping, flattery, and excessive apologies. The groveler may speak in a self-deprecating manner, highlighting their own faults or shortcomings. They may also offer to make amends or do whatever is necessary to rectify the situation.

Impact of Groveling

Groveling can have both positive and negative consequences. While it may temporarily appease the person being groveled to, it can also lead to a loss of self-respect and dignity for the groveler. In some cases, groveling may perpetuate unhealthy power dynamics or enable toxic behavior.

Humility and meekness are often associated with groveling, as individuals display a willingness to humble themselves before others. However, it is crucial to differentiate between genuine humility and excessive groveling, which can be degrading and manipulative.

Overcoming the Urge to Grovel

If you find yourself tempted to grovel in a situation, take a moment to reflect on your motivations and self-worth. Consider assertive communication strategies that allow you to address issues respectfully without compromising your dignity. Remember, true respect comes from self-confidence and self-respect, not from debasing yourself before others.


Grovel Examples

  1. The employee had to grovel to his boss for forgiveness after making a mistake.
  2. She refused to grovel to the demands of her manipulative ex-boyfriend.
  3. The politician tried to grovel for support from his constituents before the election.
  4. He had to grovel to the bouncer to get into the exclusive club.
  5. The celebrity refused to grovel to the paparazzi waiting outside her hotel.
  6. The student had to grovel to the professor to have her grade reconsidered.
  7. She didn't want to grovel for a promotion, so she looked for a new job instead.
  8. He had to grovel to his in-laws for forgiveness after forgetting their anniversary.
  9. The customer service representative had to grovel to the upset customer to prevent a negative review.
  10. The athlete had to grovel to the coach after breaking team rules.


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  • Updated 14/05/2024 - 09:36:17