flattering

adjective

flat·​ter·​ing ˈfla-tər-iŋ How to pronounce flattering (audio)
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 See all Example Sentences for flattering 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'flattering.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flattering was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near flattering

Cite this Entry

“Flattering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flattering. Accessed 11 Jun. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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