flattering
FLAT-uh-ring
/ˈflætərɪŋ/
Making someone look more attractive than they usually do.
Specifically used for clothes, colors, or lighting that enhance a person's best features.
The story behind the word. From the Old French 'flater,' which meant 'to stroke' or 'to pet.' Just as stroking a cat makes it feel good, a flattering piece of clothing 'strokes' your appearance by highlighting your best features.
Word relationships
- becoming: A slightly more old-fashioned term for something that looks good on someone.
- advantageous: Implies that the item gives you a visual advantage, though less common for fashion.
- unflattering: Making someone look less attractive than they are.
Commonly confused with
- flattery: Flattery is verbal praise (often insincere), while flattering describes a visual effect.
Word family
- flatter (verb): To make someone look or feel better.
- flattery (noun): Excessive or insincere praise.
Collocations
- flattering fit
- flattering light
- highly flattering
Example sentences
- "That shade of blue is very flattering on you; it really brings out the color of your eyes." A friend giving fashion advice.
- "The goal of the new collection is to provide flattering silhouettes for every body type." A fashion magazine article.
Memory hook
A 'flattering' dress makes your figure look 'flat' in the right places (slimmer). Makes you look great.
When not to use
Avoid using in a context that might sound insincere or like 'empty flattery' (verbal praise).
Fun facts
- The concept of 'flattering' lighting is why many fitting rooms use warm, pink-toned bulbs instead of harsh fluorescent ones.
Related words
Explore more words
flatter, flattery, embellish, compliment, photogenic, complimentary
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