lip service

noun

: an avowal of advocacy, adherence, or allegiance expressed in words but not backed by deeds
usually used with pay

Examples of lip service in a Sentence

She paid lip service to blue-collar workers, but she did nothing to help them. So far all we've gotten from him is lip service.
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
But the documentary depicts him as hostile to scrutiny by journalists and willing, at best, to pay lip service to threats to reporters. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2024 One report highlights that brands have come to rely on performative gestures, paying lip service to diversity without demonstrating long-term commitment. Hena Bryan, refinery29.com, 15 Oct. 2024 Unfortunately, lots of people pay lip service to backing up and then wail when their drive fails or their laptop is stolen. Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 11 Oct. 2024 Our son did not choose to be shunned and isolated at the behest of some who pay lip service to inclusion and diversity. Davi Merchan, ABC News, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for lip service 

Word History

First Known Use

1590, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lip service was in 1590

Dictionary Entries Near lip service

Cite this Entry

“Lip service.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lip%20service. Accessed 7 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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