mutual admiration society: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Mutual admiration society is an idiomatic expression that describes when two or more individuals excessively praise and adore each other. The term implies a shared admiration and is often used in a slightly mocking or critical way. The idiom originated in the United States during the mid-20th century and has since become popular in everyday language.

The origin of the idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to come from the concept of an actual mutual admiration society - a group of individuals who hold mutual respect and admiration for each other. The irony of the idiom comes from the perception that such societies often result in excessive praise and flattery, potentially leading to insincerity and a lack of genuine critique.

The term "mutual admiration society" gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, especially during a time when political and social circles in the United States were accused of engaging in insincere exchanges of flattering remarks. The idiom was frequently used in media, particularly in political commentary and satire, to criticize individuals who were seen as excessively praising one another.

The figurative meaning of the idiom implies exaggerated praise and a lack of objectivity. It is often used to describe situations where individuals engage in excessive flattery and fail to provide honest feedback or critique, whether in personal relationships or professional settings. The idiom can be used humorously or sarcastically to highlight situations perceived as insincere or overly self-indulgent.

Kissing up to someone is a related idiom that captures the essence of mutual admiration society. When someone "kisses up to" another person, they excessively flatter and praise them in order to gain favor or advantage. This idiom describes the behavior often associated with a mutual admiration society, where individuals go to great lengths to shower each other with praise, potentially sacrificing honesty or objectivity in the process.

Another related idiom, "birds of a feather," highlights the concept of like-minded individuals who share similar characteristics or interests. This idiom can be applied to a mutual admiration society, suggesting that the individuals involved are drawn together due to their shared inclination to excessively praise and adore one another.

This idiom is often used alongside the phrase "sing the praises of." To "sing the praises of" someone means to express enthusiastic admiration for them or to publicly extol their virtues. This idiom aligns with the behavior displayed within a mutual admiration society, where individuals are constantly singing each other's praises and showering one another with praise.

The saying "birds of a feather flock together" also relates to the concept of mutual admiration society. It suggests that individuals with similar qualities or interests tend to associate with one another. In the context of a mutual admiration society, this saying implies that individuals who are prone to excessive praise and adoration are likely to seek out others who engage in the same behavior.

Singling out individuals and "damning them with faint praise" is another idiom related to a mutual admiration society. This phrase describes the act of offering praise in a way that appears positive on the surface but is actually subtly derogatory. Within a mutual admiration society, individuals may use this tactic to feign admiration while secretly belittling one another.

Despite the potential negative connotations associated with mutual admiration societies, it is worth noting that the idiom can also be used in a positive or neutral context. In situations where individuals genuinely admire and respect each other, the idiom can be applied to highlight the depth of their mutual admiration and appreciation.

However, the more common usage of "mutual admiration society" tends to emphasize the negative connotations associated with excessive praise and a lack of critical evaluation. The idiom serves as a form of social commentary, critiquing scenarios where individuals prioritize flattery over genuine discourse or where honest feedback is stifled by a culture of excessive praise.

The idiom "mutual admiration society" conveys the idea of excessive praise and adoration shared between individuals, often with a hint of irony or criticism. This idiom originated in the mid-20th century and has since become a widely recognized phrase in the English language. Its figurative usage captures the concept of insincere flattery and a lack of genuine critique while also acknowledging the potential for genuine admiration and shared respect. By illuminating moments of exaggerated praise, the idiom invites reflection on the nature of honest feedback and the importance of genuine discourse in various social and professional contexts.