Langimage
English

flattering

|flat-ter-ing|

B2

/ˈflætərɪŋ/

(flatter)

insincere praise

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleComparativeSuperlativeNounNounAdjectiveAdverb
flatterflatterersflattersflatteredflatteredflatteringmore flatteringmost flatteringflatteryflattererflatteringflatteringly
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.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

present participle of 'flatter'.

He is flattering his boss to get a promotion.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

pleasing or gratifying to the eye or senses; enhancing one's appearance or image.

The dress was very flattering on her.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41