flattery Meaning, Definition & Usage

Flat"ter*y noun

Etymology

OE. flaterie, OF. flaterie, F. flaterie, fr. flater to flatter, F. flatter; of uncertain origin. See Flatter, v. t.

Wordforms

plural Flatteries

Definitions

1. The act or practice of flattering; the act of pleasing by artiful commendation or compliments; adulation; false, insincere, or excessive praise.

   Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present. Rambler.

   Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver. Burke.

   Syn. -- Adulation; compliment; obsequiousness. See Adulation.