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Webster 1913 Edition
Flattery
Flat′ter-y
,Noun.
pl.
Flatteries
(#)
. [OE. ]
flaterie
, OF. flaterie
, F. flaterie
, fr. flater
to flatter, F. flatter
; of uncertain origin. See Flatter
, Verb.
T.
The act or practice of flattering; the act of pleasing by artful commendation or compliments; adulation; false, insincere, or excessive praise.
Just praise is only a debt, but
flattery
is a present. Rambler.
Syn. – Adulation; compliment; obsequiousness. See
Adulation
. Webster 1828 Edition
Flattery
FLAT'TERY
,Noun.
1.
False praise; commendation bestowed for the purpose of gaining favor and influence, or to accomplish some purpose. Direct flattery consists in praising a person himself; indirect flattery consists in praising a person through his works or his connections.Simple pride for flattery makes demands.
Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present.
2.
Adulation; obsequiousness; wheedling.3.
Just commendation which gratifies self-love.