Sycophancy, n.
Etymology: [Cf. L. sycophantia deceit, Gr.
The character or characteristic of a sycophant. Hence: - (a) False accusation; calumniation; talebearing. [Obs.] Bp. Hall. (b) Obsequious flattery; servility. The sycophancy of A.Philips had prejudiced Mr. Addison against Pope. Bp. Warburton.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for sycophancy; he lists it under praise.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.