FLATTER

Definition of FLATTER

FLATTER Verb

Flatter is a verb that means to praise or compliment someone excessively, often insincerely, with the intention of making them feel good or gaining favor. It involves giving compliments or making statements that may not be entirely genuine but are designed to please or influence the recipient. Flatter can also imply enhancing or exaggerating someone’s qualities or attributes to make them appear more favorable.

Compliments and Praise: To flatter someone typically involves offering compliments or praise that may be more about the speaker’s intention to win favor rather than genuine admiration. For instance, saying, “You’re the best at everything,” might be considered flattery if it is exaggerated or insincere. This kind of flattery can be used to build rapport or influence opinions, though it may lack authenticity.

Strategic Flattery: Flatter can be used strategically in social and professional contexts to achieve specific goals. For example, a salesperson might flatter a customer to create a positive impression and close a sale. Similarly, a politician might flatter voters to gain support. While strategic flattery can be effective, it is often scrutinized for sincerity and can be perceived as manipulative if overused.

Enhancing Appearance or Attributes: In a different context, flatter can refer to the act of enhancing or exaggerating someone’s appearance or attributes. For example, a tailor might say, “This suit flatters your figure,” meaning it enhances or complements the person’s appearance. This usage highlights the positive impact something has on someone’s looks or attributes.

Self-Flattery: Flatter can also describe the act of praising oneself excessively. This form of self-flattery involves promoting one’s own qualities or achievements in an exaggerated manner. For instance, someone might boast about their accomplishments in a way that appears insincere or overly self-congratulatory.

Psychological Impact: The psychological impact of flattering can be significant, as it can boost the recipient’s self-esteem and create positive feelings. However, it can also lead to a dependency on external validation or undermine genuine relationships if the flattery is perceived as manipulative. Understanding the effects of flattery helps in navigating social interactions and building authentic connections.

Cultural and Social Contexts: Flatter is used across various cultural and social contexts, often reflecting norms and values related to politeness, persuasion, and social dynamics. The effectiveness and perception of flattery can vary depending on cultural attitudes toward praise and complimenting. In some cultures, flattery is more common and accepted, while in others, it may be viewed with skepticism or regarded as insincere.

In conclusion, flatter is a verb that involves praising or complimenting someone, often excessively or insincerely, with the intention of pleasing or influencing them. It can also refer to enhancing or exaggerating someone’s appearance or attributes. While flattery can have positive effects, such as boosting self-esteem, it can also be perceived as manipulative or insincere if not used carefully. Understanding the nuances of flattery helps in managing social interactions and ensuring that praise remains genuine and constructive.

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Examples of FLATTER in a sentence

• She tried to flatter her boss with compliments to make a good impression during the review.
• The artist was pleased when critics flattered his work in their reviews.
• He used carefully chosen words to flatter his client and secure the deal.
• The portrait was designed to flatter the subject’s best features.
• Her new hairstyle seemed to flatter her overall appearance.
• The company’s marketing campaign aimed to flatter its brand image to attract more customers.
• He was careful not to flatter the politician too much, as he wanted to remain neutral.
• The flattering comments were meant to flatter the guest of honor during the ceremony.

Origin of FLATTER

Flatter traces its origins to the Latin word flātere, meaning “to blow” or “to puff up,” which evolved into the Old French flater, meaning “to stroke” or “to praise.” The term flatter in English developed from this, referring to the act of giving excessive praise or compliments to make someone feel good or to gain favor.

• Latin: Flātere (to blow, to puff up), evolving into flater (to praise).
• Latin: Flātere initially meant “to blow,” and its metaphorical use evolved to mean puffing up someone’s ego or self-esteem.
• Old French: Flater came to mean “to praise” or “to flatter,” reflecting the idea of enhancing someone’s self-image through praise.
• Middle English: Flatter entered English, maintaining the meaning of giving excessive praise or compliments to make someone feel better or to gain favor.

In contemporary English, flatter describes the act of giving excessive praise or compliments, often to make someone feel good or to win their favor. The term retains its original sense of enhancing someone’s self-image through positive reinforcement or insincere praise.

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