Flatter: meaning, definitions and examples

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flatter

[ ˈflætər ]

^{Context #1}

compliment

To praise someone insincerely, often with the intention of getting something in return. Flattery is often used to manipulate or gain favor with someone.

Synonyms

adulate, butter up, compliment, praise, sweet-talk

Examples of usage

He flattered his boss in order to get a promotion.
She was flattered by his compliments, but she knew he had ulterior motives.
Don't be fooled by his flattery, he's just trying to manipulate you.
The salesperson flattered the customer to make a sale.
Her flattery was so obvious that it was almost insulting.

Translations

Translations of the word "flatter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bajular

🇮🇳 चापलूसी करना (chāplūsī karnā)

🇩🇪 schmeicheln

🇮🇩 menjilat

🇺🇦 підлещуватися

🇵🇱 pochlebiać

🇯🇵 お世辞を言う (oseji o iu)

🇫🇷 flatter

🇪🇸 halagar

🇹🇷 yağ çekmek

🇰🇷 아첨하다 (acheomhada)

🇸🇦 تملق (tamalluq)

🇨🇿 lichotit

🇸🇰 lichotiť

🇨🇳 奉承 (fèngchéng)

🇸🇮 laskati

🇮🇸 smjaðra

🇰🇿 жалбақтау

🇬🇪 შექება (sheq'eba)

🇦🇿 yaltaqlanmaq

🇲🇽 halagar

Word origin

The word 'flatter' originated from the Old French word 'flater', which means 'to stroke or caress'. It was first used in the 14th century with the meaning 'to portray favorably'. Over time, the word evolved to its current usage of insincerely praising someone to gain favor or manipulate. Flattery has been a common technique used in social interactions and relationships throughout history.