blandishment

American  

[blan-dish-muhnt] / ˈblæn dɪʃ mənt /

noun

1. Often blandishments. something, as an action or speech, that tends to flatter, coax, entice, etc..

   Our blandishments left him unmoved. We succumbed to the blandishments of tropical living.

   Synonyms:

   blarney, ingratiation, cajolery, flattery

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Etymology

Origin of blandishment

First recorded in 1585–95; blandish + -ment

Explanation

When you hear a blandishment come your way, you may feel flattered, as that's what a blandisher intends to do. However, beware because that flattery may come with the underlying intention of persuading you to do something! The noun blandishment is related to the old-fashioned verb blandish meaning "to coax with flattery, or kind words." A blandishment is often teasing in tone, and the intention to persuade is usually thinly veiled. Your brother may use a blandishment or two to get you to do his chores, and you're going to know exactly what he's after. But the saying "You get more flies with honey" just might hold true if you find yourself taking out the trash when it's not your turn.

Example Sentences

Dad and Mom and the other adults were always ready with a parable or blandishment, in Beaver’s life as in mine.

From Washington Post • Jul. 29, 2022

Publix dangles the most generous blandishment: Florida’s dominant grocer gives $10 gift cards to patients who get influenza vaccines at its store pharmacies.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 24, 2017

Part nickname, part blandishment, part rallying cry, “Treasure!” is a wake-up call.

From Slate • Mar. 22, 2015

In the corridors of international diplomacy, India, Brazil, and South Africa make an attractive target for diplomatic blandishment.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2013

No amount of wheedling and blandishment would cause the cynical badger to change her mind.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques