flatter
|flat-ter|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈflætər/
🇬🇧
/ˈflætə/
insincere praise
Etymology
Etymology Information
'flatter' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'flater,' where 'flatter' meant 'to stroke or caress.'
Historical Evolution
'flater' transformed into the Middle English word 'flateren,' and eventually became the modern English word 'flatter.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to stroke or caress,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to praise excessively or insincerely.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to praise someone excessively or insincerely, often to gain favor or advantage.
She flattered her boss to get a promotion.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35