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flattery

FLAT-uh-ree /ˈflæt.ər.i/

nounB2GRESATIELTS

GeneralLiterary

Excessive, insincere, or exaggerated praise, often given to further one's own self-interest.

Implies praise driven by ulterior motives, calculated to manipulate or gain personal favor.

The story behind the word. From Old French 'flater', meaning to stroke someone with the flat of the hand or caress them like an animal. The imagery shifted from soothing physical caresses to soothing words designed to manipulate.

Word relationships

adulation: 'Adulation' is extreme, worshipping praise, while 'flattery' emphasizes strategic insincerity.
blandishment: 'Blandishment' emphasizes coaxing speech or enticing action, while 'flattery' centers on excessive verbal praise.

candor: 'Candor' is honest, direct truthfulness, opposite to manipulative flattery.

Commonly confused with

compliment: A 'compliment' is typically sincere and polite; 'flattery' is exaggerated and self-serving.

Word family

flatter (verb): To praise insincerely.
flattering (adjective): Full of praise; making look attractive.

Collocations

empty flattery
shameless flattery
flattery will get you nowhere

Idioms & expressions

flattery will get you nowhere
imitation is the sincerest form of flattery

Example sentences

"Flattery is like cologne water, to be smelt of, not swallowed." Literature citation
"The ambitious courtier used shameless flattery to win the monarch's favor and secure a lucrative appointment." Political commentary

Memory hook

FLATtery tries to make your ego expand FLAT and wide. Flattery strokes egos for selfish gains.

When not to use

Do not use for honest, unselfish, or earnest praise.

Fun facts

The proverb 'Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery' was coined by Charles Caleb Colton in 1820.

Related words

adulation, compliment, uncomplimentary

Explore more words

flatter, adulation, obsequious, panegyric, patronizing, extol