1.
to butter up; to flatter; to suck up to someone
To try to gain favor from someone in a position of authority through excessive flattery or ingratiating behavior. A colloquial and slightly negative expression.
Etymology
The expression comes from the act of grinding sesame seeds (ごまをする) in a mortar. The seeds stick to everything around them, just as a flatterer "sticks" to people in power. A person who flatters is called a ごますり.
Usage
This is an informal expression with a somewhat negative connotation. It implies that the flattery is insincere and motivated by self-interest. The person doing the flattering is often viewed critically by others.
Common patterns
- ～にごまをする (to butter up [person])
- ごまをすっている (is sucking up; note the って contraction)
- ごますり (noun: flatterer, sycophant)