flatter
UK: ˈflætə | US: ˈflætər
vt. to praise someone excessively or insincerely
vt. to portray someone or something in an overly favorable way
vt. to gratify or please someone’s vanity
The word flatter traces back to the Old French flater, meaning "to caress or soothe," which likely borrowed from Germanic roots like Old Norse flaðra (to fawn). The original sense involved physical stroking or soothing, which evolved metaphorically into verbal praise—often with connotations of insincerity. The -er suffix solidifies its role as a verb in English.
She flattered him by praising his outdated outfit.
The painting flatters her features, making her look younger.
He was flattered by the unexpected compliment.
Don’t flatter yourself—they were just being polite.
The advertisement flatters the product’s mediocre quality.