flattering

adjective

flat·​ter·​ing ˈfla-tər-iŋ 

1

: marked by flattery: such as

a

: showing or expressing gratifying respect or admiration

a flattering comparison

His colleagues might have disowned him, but they didn't receive flattering invitations to speak all over the country and to write for The New York Times.

—Richard Dawkins

b

: excessively or insincerely complimentary

… a steady stream of ham actors, all of whom were welcomed with flattering speeches.

—H. L. Mencken

2

: helping to enhance attractiveness

a necktie in a flattering color

… dictating the most flattering camera angles.

—David Margolick

The gowns were indeed smashing: smart, sexy, eye-catching, and very, very flattering.

—The New Yorker

flatteringly adverb

The so-called Generation X has been described by some—not flatteringly—as a scavenger culture that gathers music, art and fashions from recent past generations rather than creating its own.

—Steve Hochman

Her upper body is all besuited business—the black jacket, the white blouse reflecting flatteringly on the face, the understated silver choker and earrings, the burnished brown bob.

—Rebecca Mead

Examples of flattering in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The pull-on top itself is crafted from flattering polyester and spandex for a close fit. —Grace Smith, Southern Living, 7 June 2024

Primed for wear from the beach to a day of walking around, these casual and breathable pants are made with a flattering elastic waistband alongside wide, flowy legs that bring a beachy vibe to every outfit they’re paired with. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 5 June 2024

With decorative buttons, a relaxed fit, and flattering midi length, the dress is easy to slip on and off, stylish enough to throw on top of a bathing suit, and, most importantly, lightweight enough to pack in your carry-on or duffel. —Michelle Rostamian, Peoplemag, 5 June 2024

Its side-wrap waistline enhances its appeal and ensures a universally flattering fit. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 5 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing flattering

• self-flattering