flatter

1. 1

   comparative form of flat: more flatcomparativeform-of

1. 1

   To compliment someone, often (but not necessarily) insincerely and sometimes to win favour.ambitransitive

   • 1855, William H. Prescott, History of the Reign of Philip the Second, King of Spain, Boston: Phillips, Sampson & Co., Volume 1, Book 1, Chapter 7, p. 242, Some he complimented for their bravery; others he flattered by asking their advice.
2. 2

   To enhance or gratify someone's vanity by praising them.ambitransitive

3. 3

   To portray someone to advantage.ambitransitive

   • Her portrait flatters her.
4. 4

   To encourage or cheer someone with (usually false) hope.ambitransitive

   • […] I went up, and sat there two Hours and an half before I cou’d discern any Thing like Land; and when I first saw it I told my Comrade, but not being certain I wou’d not call out; for the Case was of such Importance, that they were not to
5. 5

   To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false.ambitransitivereflexiveusually

   • Before the results came out, I flattered myself that I had done well on the test. It turned out I was the worst in the class!
6. 6

   To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false.; In phrasal verb "to flatter with": to encourage, inspire with hope.ambitransitiveintransitiveobsolete

   • Run after that ſame peeuiſh Meſſenger / The Countes man: he left this Ring behinde him / Would I, or not: tell him, Ile none of it. / Deſire him not to flatter with his Lord, / Nor hold him vp with hopes, I am not for him:

syn. brush up to · collogue · flatter · flatterize · glaver · gloze · jolly · lay it on thick · make fair weather · palaver · preen · puff

ant. defame · offend

1. 1

   A type of set tool used by blacksmiths.ambitransitive

2. 2

   A flat-faced fulling hammer.ambitransitive

3. 3

   A drawplate with a narrow, rectangular orifice, for drawing flat strips such as watch springs.ambitransitive

4. 4

   Someone who flattens, purposely or accidentally. Also flattener.ambitransitive

1. 1

   Someone who lives in a rented flat.New-ZealandUKambitransitive