Meanings (ES + gloss)
congraciarse
To bring oneself into favour with someone by flattering or trying to please them; to insinuate oneself; to worm one's way in.
[H]e considered this offering an homage to his merits, and an attempt on the part of the heiress to ingratiate herself into his priceless affections.
[H]e would pat the children on the head when he saw them on the stairs, and ingratiate himself with them as far as he dared.