flattery

¹ American  

[flat-uh-ree] / ˈflæt ə ri /

noun

plural

flatteries

1. the act of flattering.

2. a flattering compliment or speech; excessive, insincere praise.

   Synonyms:

   pandering, sycophancy

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Flattery ² American  

[flat-ree] / ˈflæt ri /

noun

1. Cape, a cape in NW Washington, on the Olympic Peninsula, at the entrance to Juan de Fuca Strait.

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flattery British  

/ ˈflætərɪ /

noun

1. the act of flattering

2. excessive or insincere praise

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Etymology

Origin of flattery

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English flaterie, from Middle French, equivalent to flat(er) “to flatter” + -erie noun suffix; flatter ¹, -ery

Example Sentences

“You’ve seen that a lot of our competitors have strategies now that are slightly similar to what we do, and I think imitation is the highest form of flattery,” said Lake.

From The Wall Street Journal

If imitation truly is the sincerest form of flattery, perhaps Americans should take a bow.

From The Wall Street Journal

For a year, they employed flattery and deference to seek compromise.

From The Wall Street Journal

Such alignment can easily be misread as flattery.

From Salon

This was no form of flattery, and wouldn’t be allowed between cities in the same state.

From The Wall Street Journal