flattering 1 of 2

Definition of flatteringnext

flattering

2 of 2

verb

present participle of flatter

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of flattering
Adjective
Those included flattering depictions of world leaders as powerful men, or dehumanizing depictions of opposition leaders. Stuart A. Thompson, New York Times, 14 Mar. 2026 The Renaissance-style bust is supportive and flattering, while the waist holds you in without restricting your movement. Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
Her self-portrait isn’t always flattering. Los Angeles Times, 24 Feb. 2026 Manicure trends like milk bath nails, soap nails, and BB cream nails all feature the same nude color and shiny finish that’s flattering for all skin tones. Lina-Marie Baatz, Glamour, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flattering
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flattering
Adjective
  • Before the film ends with onscreen graphics listing Melania’s achievements as first lady in such laudatory fashion that North Korea would blush, she’s shown posing for her official portrait.
    Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 30 Jan. 2026
  • As several polls and surveys of consumer confidence reveal, the public’s view of contemporary economic conditions contrasts sharply with Trump’s laudatory assessment, and some believe his strategy of denying affordability concerns could hurt the GOP's chances in next year’s elections.
    Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Illinois Senate President Don Harmon should pass legislation granting the Illinois Department of Insurance the power to reject excessive rate hikes by insurance companies regarding homeowners’ insurance rates.
    Willie Wilson, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026
  • The National Park Service warns that excessive saltwater intrusion can weaken the trees over time, and in some cases, eventually kill them.
    Dan Peck, ABC News, 26 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Instead, some progressive allies rushed to denounce Israel’s military response while either praising or refusing to condemn Hamas.
    Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Hearts have melted online after a scared rescue dog bravely faced her fear in order to join her owner, with many viewers praising her unquestionable courage and determination.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • But with a bid to appeal to more women and families, Hooters risks failing to differentiate itself from the dozens of other casual dining chains also priding themselves on being family-friendly, according to Saunders.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 14 Nov. 2025
  • If bookmaking was in theory the keel that kept the ship upright, in practice Bowyer often treated it as another gamble, priding himself on taking bets that his competition wouldn’t touch.
    DAVID AMSDEN, Rolling Stone, 29 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Paramount has continued to agitate for more fulsome negotiations to buy Warner.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Johnson, an ally of the Jacksons, wrote a fulsome tribute that nodded to Jackson’s ascent in Chicago, from building up the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization to founding the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Bhattacharya has visited the Atlanta campus, sent emails commending the CDC staff and thanking them for their work, and extended telework accommodations in his first weeks on the job.
    Pien Huang, NPR, 25 Mar. 2026
  • District 4 Councilmember Jaceey Sebastian and Mayor Carmalitha Gumbs both issued statements commending the South Fulton Police Department's swift response and expressing condolences to the families of the victims.
    CBS News Atlanta Staff, CBS News, 23 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • In District 17, Eleanor Sweet McDonnell sent a statement conceding the race to Joe Salvi, congratulating the young Republican who, according to unofficial results received, just under 1,600 votes.
    Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Acquaintances then sent him emails, congratulating him for being named Yogi of the Month.
    Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 25 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Under this view, multimillionaires and billionaires could easily afford to relocate to more favorable tax jurisdictions, depriving governments of revenue.
    Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 26 Mar. 2026
  • If winds increase in the afternoon, conditions could approach Red Flag criteria, meaning weather conditions are favorable for fires to start easily and spread fast.
    Robert A. Cronkleton March 26, Kansas City Star, 26 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Flattering.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flattering. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on flattering

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster