flatter
Flatter (verb) means to praise someone, often more than they deserve, in order to please them or win favour. Example: “He flattered his boss constantly, hoping for a promotion.”
How to use flatter
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo pay someone insincere compliments, or to make something appear more attractive than it really is.
This is also the comparative of the adjective "flat" (e.g. "the flatter of the two roads") — context makes clear which meaning is meant.
Word forms
flattered past tense, flatters plural, flatters plural, flatters singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ his boss constantly, hoping for a promotion.
Etymology
From Middle English flateren, likely blending an Old English word for fluttering or fawning with an Old French word meaning to stroke with the flat of the hand.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for flatter
See all rhymes for flatter →Frequently asked questions
What does “flatter” mean?
The word “flatter” means to praise someone, often more than they deserve, in order to please them or win favour. In plain terms, to pay someone insincere compliments, or to make something appear more attractive than it really is.
How do you pronounce “flatter”?
“Flatter” is pronounced FLA-tuh (/ˈflætɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “flatter” in a sentence?
Here is “flatter” used in a sentence: “He flattered his boss constantly, hoping for a promotion.”
What is another word for “flatter”?
Words with a similar meaning to “flatter” include brush up to, collogue, flatterize, glaver, gloze and jolly.
What is the opposite of “flatter”?
The opposite of “flatter” — its antonyms — are defame and offend.
What part of speech is “flatter”?
“Flatter” is a verb.
Where does the word “flatter” come from?
The word “flatter” comes from Old French. From Middle English flateren, likely blending an Old English word for fluttering or fawning with an Old French word meaning to stroke with the flat of the hand.
Is “flatter” a common word?
“Flatter” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.