Curry favor

Meaning

Seek to gain advantage by flattering.

Usage

Describes manipulative praise.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

From Middle English 'curry favel', which came from the Old French 'correier Fauvel' (to rub down Fauvel, the cunning horse in a medieval satire). 'Favel' later became 'favour'.

In English since the 14th century.