expression, godan verb (-u)
flatter a superior; suck up to; curry favor
Idiomatic expression literally meaning 'to brush the dirt from a beard'; used figuratively for sycophantic behavior toward someone in a higher position.
彼はいつも上司の御髭の塵を払っている。
He is always sucking up to his boss.
御髭の塵を払うような態度は見苦しい。
An attitude of currying favor is unsightly.