flatter

[ˈflætər]

flatter Definition

• 1. to praise someone in a way that is not sincere, usually to get something from them
• 2. to make someone look or feel more attractive or better than usual
• 3. to please or satisfy someone's ego or vanity

Using flatter: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "flatter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  He flattered her with compliments to get her to do what he wanted.

• Example

  The dress flatters her figure.

• Example

  The chef was flattered by the positive review of his restaurant.

flatter Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for flatter

• compliment
• adulate
• blandish
• cajole
• coax

Antonyms for flatter

• criticize
• insult
• offend

Phrases with flatter

• flatter oneself

  to believe something positive about oneself that may not be true

  Example

  She flattered herself that she was the best candidate for the job.

• flattery will get you nowhere

  saying nice things to someone will not make them do what you want if they don't want to

  Example

  He tried to flatter his boss into giving him a raise, but she refused. Flattery will get you nowhere.

• fish for compliments

  to try to get someone to say nice things about you

  Example

  She was fishing for compliments about her new haircut.

Origins of flatter

from Old French 'flater', meaning 'to smooth, stroke'

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Summary: flatter in Brief

To 'flatter' [ˈflætər] someone is to praise insincerely, often to gain something in return. It can also mean to make someone look or feel better than usual. Examples include 'He flattered her with compliments to get her to do what he wanted.' and 'The dress flatters her figure.' Phrases like 'flattery will get you nowhere' and 'fish for compliments' are also common.