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adj Uncommon

flattering

FLA-tuh-rihng

Flattering (adj) means making someone or something look more attractive or impressive than usual. Example: “That's a very flattering photo of you.”

adj
1
Making someone or something look more attractive or impressive than usual.
"That's a very flattering photo of you."
"He wrote her a flattering letter of recommendation."

How to use flattering

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething that makes a person or thing look good, sometimes more than is strictly deserved.

Common pairings
flattering light flattering review flattering comparison

Word forms

more flattering comparative, flatterings plural, most flattering superlative

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Test yourself on “flattering” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

That's a very _____ photo of you.

Etymology

From "flatter" + "-ing."

flattery soft sawder

Related words

Rhymes for flattering

See all rhymes for flattering →

Frequently asked questions

What does “flattering” mean?

The word “flattering” means making someone or something look more attractive or impressive than usual. In plain terms, something that makes a person or thing look good, sometimes more than is strictly deserved.

How do you pronounce “flattering”?

“Flattering” is pronounced FLA-tuh-rihng (/ˈflætəɹɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “flattering” in a sentence?

Here is “flattering” used in a sentence: “That's a very flattering photo of you.”

What is another word for “flattering”?

Words with a similar meaning to “flattering” include flattery and soft sawder.

What part of speech is “flattering”?

“Flattering” is an adjective.

Is “flattering” a common word?

“Flattering” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial