"Brownie points" is a colloquial term used to describe the informal credit or favor someone earns through good behavior or helpful actions. The phrase often implies that these points can lead to increased approval or goodwill from others, particularly in social or workplace settings. It suggests that by doing something nice or beneficial, a person can enhance their reputation or standing with peers. The origin of the term is believed to be linked to the Brownies, a fictional group of helpful little creatures in folklore. Over time, the phrase evolved to represent the idea of accumulating favor, much like earning points in a game, for positive actions or contributions.