Definitions

flattery

[flat-uh-ree] / ˈflæt ə ri /

NOUN

false praise, compliments

Synonyms

STRONG

adulation applause approbation blandishment blarney cajolery commendation encomium eulogy eyewash flummery fulsomeness gallantry hokum ingratiation jive mush obsequiousness palaver plaudits puffery snow stroking sycophancy tribute truckling unctuousness

WEAK

bootlicking fawning flattering honeyed words laud pretty speech snow job soft words soft-soap sweet-talk toadyism

Antonyms

STRONG

blame criticism

WEAK

belittlement castigation condemnation denunciation insult

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The imitation restaurants are a form of flattery, Bob Auerbach, the founder’s stepson, previously told The Times.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

The surprising revelation was part of a torrent of flattery, pomp and circumstance unleashed by Trump as Charles and Queen Camilla visited the White House.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

For the first year of his second term, European leaders used flattery in their approach to Trump.

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2026

Such alignment can easily be misread as flattery.

From Salon • Jan. 3, 2026

“Now is not the time for flattery; It is the time for truth. Tell me. Did you hurt this girl, yes or no?”

From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat

Vocabulary lists containing flattery

Gathering Blue

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"The Necklace" and "The Fashion Show"

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Selection Vocabulary 1, Unit 5

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