flattery
UK: ˈflætəri | US: ˈflætəri
n. Excessive or insincere praise, often used to gain favor or manipulate.
flattery = flat<to stroke or soothe> + tery<noun suffix indicating action or practice>
- flat (from Old French flater, meaning "to stroke or soothe," originally imitative of the sound of patting or caressing)
- tery (a suffix forming nouns denoting habitual action or practice, derived from Latin -toria)
Etymology Origin:
The word "flattery" traces back to the Old French flaterie, which evolved from flater ("to stroke or soothe"). The original sense was linked to physical caressing, later metaphorically extended to verbal "stroking" of ego through praise. The suffix -tery (from Latin -toria) solidified its meaning as a practice or act. Over time, the term acquired a negative connotation, emphasizing insincerity in praise.
Her constant flattery made him suspicious of her motives.
Politicians often use flattery to win over voters.
He saw through the flattery and refused to be manipulated.
The boss disliked empty flattery and valued honest feedback.
Flattery may work temporarily, but sincerity builds lasting trust.