A lapdog refers to a small dog breed that is often used as a companion pet. However, the term can also be used metaphorically to describe a person who is overly subservient or obedient to someone in authority. Synonyms for lapdog include sycophant, toady, bootlicker, yes-man, lackey, flunky, brown-noser, and fawner. These words all describe individuals who are excessively eager to please and serve their superiors at the cost of their own dignity and independence. They are often used in a negative connotation to criticize individuals who lack the courage or integrity to stand up for themselves.