noun
flattery
FLAT-uh-ree
noun
1
Excessive or insincere praise, often given to win someone's favour.
"His flattery didn't win her over — she saw right through it."
"A little flattery goes a long way with the new manager."
How to Use Flattery
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishInsincere praise aimed at pleasing someone or gaining an advantage.
Memory tip
The saying "flattery will get you nowhere" is a common set phrase meaning compliments won't change someone's decision.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
empty flattery
shameless flattery
flattery will get you nowhere
Word Forms
flatteries plural, Flatterys plural
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His _____ didn't win her over — she saw right through it.
Etymology
From Old French flaterie, from the verb flater ("to flatter").