grovel
/ˈɡrɒvəl/verb
To act in a very humble way, begging or flattering someone to win their forgiveness or favor.
Example sentences
- “I'm not going to grovel just to keep this job.”
- “He groveled to his boss after missing the meeting.”
- “You don't need to grovel; a simple sorry is enough.”
Strongly negative: it suggests a loss of dignity. Often followed by 'to' someone or 'for' something, as in 'grovel for forgiveness'.