Synonyms for
Flatter
Definition
to praise or compliment someone insincerely or excessively to gain favor or advantage
Synonyms & similar words
level
savorless
matte
prostrate
matt
savourless
blandish
flavourless
flat
flavorless
plane
monotone
monotonic
disparage
matted
natural
compressed
monotonous
bland
mat
categorical
vapid
categoric
contrasty
unconditional
adulate
compliment
court
exaggerate
fawn
gush
ingratiate
overpraise
praise
soft-soap
sweet-talk
toady
wheedle
bootlick
brownnose
cajole
charm
coax
flirt
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- flatter oneself
- flatter someone's ego
- flatter to deceive
- flatter a client
- flatter a superior
- flatter a friend
- flatter a lover
Word family
Usage note
Often used with 'oneself' to indicate self-congratulation. Can sometimes imply insincerity, especially when used in the phrase 'flatter to deceive'.
Compare "flatter" with another word →
Example sentences
- The salesman was trying to flatter the customer into buying the expensive product.
- She flattered her friend with compliments about her new haircut.
- He flattered the teacher by telling her she was the best teacher ever.
- The politician flattered the voters with promises he knew he couldn't keep.
- She flattered her date, hoping he would ask her out again.
Quotes
Flattery is like cologne water, to be smelt, not swallowed.
Flattery is a counterfeit money which, but for vanity, would have no circulation.
Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.