flattery

flat·tery

noun \ˈfla-tə-rē\

plural flat·ter·ies

Definition of FLATTERY

1

a : the act or practice of flattering b (1) : something that flatters (2) : insincere or excessive praise

2

obsolete : a pleasing self-deception

Examples of FLATTERY

1. He tried to win his teacher's favor with flattery.
2. <a talk show host who is known for charming her guests with disingenuous flattery>

First Known Use of FLATTERY

14th century

Related to FLATTERY

Synonyms: adulation, blarney, butter, flannel [British], incense, overpraise, soft soap, sweet talk, taffy

Related Words: allurements, blandishments, endearments; caresses, compliments, congratulations, felicitations, greetings, regards, respects; adoration, idolatry, worship; fawning, sycophancy, toadying; cajolement, cajolery, ingratiation, smarm; acclaim, applause, commendation, praise

Near Antonyms: bad-mouthing, belittlement, depreciation, detraction, disparagement, put-down

[+]more[-]hide

Rhymes with FLATTERY

cattery, clattery, mattery