flatter

flat-ter · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To praise someone excessively or insincerely, especially to gain favor.

  2. 2.

    To make someone feel pleased or honored.

  3. 3.

    To make something appear more attractive than it really is.

  4. 4.

    To gratify oneself with the belief that something is true.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    flatter oneself — to have an exaggerated belief about oneself
  • •
    flattery will get you nowhere — insincere praise won't help

Related words

Antonyms: criticize, insult, offend
See also: compliment, flattered, flattering, praise
Synonyms: butter up, cajole, compliment, praise

Etymology

From Old French flater ("to stroke, caress, flatter"), of Germanic origin, possibly related to the notion of smoothing or making flat.