FLATTERY Synonyms: 39 Similar and Opposite Words

flattery

noun

ˈfla-tə-rē

Definition of flattery

as in praise

excessive praise a talk show host who is known for charming her guests with disingenuous flattery

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 flattery Imitation isn’t always a form of flattery, as evidenced by these stars’ reactions to on-screen depictions of their lives. — Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2026 Even effective flattery or ingratiation may have limits, especially when the stakes are highest. — Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026 The message underneath the flattery is more consequential since Somaliland is no longer simply making a historical or moral case for recognition. — Yinka Adegoke, semafor.com, 16 Sep. 2026 But Ridgeway pushes on, trying various means — flattery, insults, amateur psychology — to cajole her into delivering a new Ripley book. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flattery

Recent Examples of Synonyms for flattery

Noun

Just an incredible exchange of mutual praise, admiration, and sarcastic criticisms.

— Ian Miller, FOXNews.com, 12 Nov. 2026
The rest of the Dougherty Dozen’s content is mostly Alicia alone, whom her commenters still, for the most part, shower with praise.

— Rebecca Jennings, Vulture, 12 Nov. 2026

Definition of praise

Noun

So were the trademark online videos showing the candidate goofing around in a hoodie, name-dropping Dunkin and Market Basket, and basking in the adulation of sparse crowds.

— Jon Keller, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026
Just how much money, property, power or adulation makes for a satisfying life?

— Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of adulation

Noun

Scott has received early acclaim for his powerful portrayal of Charleson.

— Kara Warner, Vanity Fair, 14 Nov. 2026
Bowen Yang is starring in the play on Broadway, and Betty Gilpin, Maya Rudolph and Tituss Burgess are among the luminaries who have staggered to great acclaim in the character’s high heels.

— Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 13 Nov. 2026

Definition of acclaim

Noun

Clay/Ali remains one of the most indelible personalities of the 20th century, a man whose every public utterance and movement have become the subject of adoration and imitation.

— Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 3 Nov. 2026
His face appearing on the big screen was naturally greeted by cheers of adoration from the stands and would normally have been a pure reason to smile.

— Ben Church, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of adoration

Browse Nearby Words

flatters

flattery

flatulent

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“Flattery.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flattery. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of flattery

noun

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