Emily Dickinson Lexicon
Definition for FLAT'TER-Y
FLAT'TER-Y, n. [Fr. flatterie.]
- 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. – Pope. Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present. – Rambler.
- Adulation; obsequiousness; wheedling. – Rowe.
- Just commendation which gratifies self-love.
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