flatteringly
|flat-ter-ing-ly|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈflætɚ/
🇬🇧
/ˈflætə/
(flatter)
insincere praise
Etymology
Etymology Information
'flatter' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'flater', where 'flater' meant 'to stroke' or 'to caress'.
Historical Evolution
'flatter' changed from the Old French word 'flater' and the Middle English form 'flateren' and eventually became the modern English word 'flatter'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to stroke or caress', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to praise (often insincerely)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a flattering manner; in a way that praises someone, often insincerely or with the aim of gaining favor.
He spoke flatteringly about her work.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/05 05:54