flatter
FLAT-uhr
/ˈflætər/
To praise insincerely or excessively, especially to win favor or advance one's own interests.
Carries a strong connotation of insincerity, manipulation, or exaggeration, though it can occasionally be used playfully to mean making someone feel pleased.
The story behind the word. Originating from the Old French word 'flater', which meant 'to stroke, caress, or pat.' The physical action of petting an animal or stroking someone's face to soothe them eventually became a metaphor for 'stroking' someone's ego with sweet words.
Word relationships
- cajole: Cajole implies using flattery specifically to persuade someone to do something, whereas flatter is just the act of giving insincere praise.
- fawn: Fawn implies exaggerated, submissive flattery, like a dog begging for scraps.
- insult: To speak disrespectfully, whereas flatter is speaking excessively pleasing words.
- criticize: To point out faults honestly, which is the opposite of insincere praise.
Commonly confused with
- flutter: Flutter means to flap wings rapidly or move restlessly, while flatter means to praise insincerely.
Word family
- flattery (noun): Insincere compliments.
- flattering (adjective): Making someone look or feel good.
Collocations
- flatter someone shamelessly
- flatter oneself
- flatter to deceive
Idioms & expressions
- flatter to deceive
Example sentences
- "Be careful of those who flatter you constantly, as they often have hidden motives." A warning about political opportunists.
Memory hook
When you flatter someone, you try to make their ego 'flat' and smooth by stroking it. Flatter = Stroke the ego flat.
When not to use
Do not use when describing deep, genuine, and respectful praise.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'flatter to deceive' refers to something that looks promising at first but ultimately disappoints, like a false compliment.
Related words
Explore more words
flattery, obsequious, compliment, cajole, complimentary, glib
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