GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 3 definitions

1.       
   Flatter , n.
   One who, or that which, makes flat or flattens.
   1913 Webster
   (Metal Working) (a) A flat-faced fulling hammer. (b) A drawplate with a narrow, rectangular orifice, for drawing flat strips, as watch springs, etc.
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2.       
   Flatter , v. t. [imp. & p. p. Flattered ; p. pr. & vb. n. Flattering.] [OE. flateren, cf. OD. flatteren; akin to G. flattern to flutter, Icel. flaðra to fawn, flatter: cf. F. flatter. Cf. Flitter, Flutter, Flattery.]
   To treat with praise or blandishments; to gratify or attempt to gratify the self-love or vanity of, esp. by artful and interested commendation or attentions; to blandish; to cajole; to wheedle.
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   When I tell him he hates flatterers,
   He says he does, being then most flattered.
   Shak.
   
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   A man that flattereth his neighbor, spreadeth a net for his feet.
   Prov. xxix. 5.
   
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   Others he flattered by asking their advice.
   Prescott.
   
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   To raise hopes in; to encourage or favorable, but sometimes unfounded or deceitful, representations.
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   To portray too favorably; to give a too favorable idea of; as, his portrait flatters him.
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3.       
   Flatter, v. i. To use flattery or insincere praise.
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   If it may stand him more in stead to lie,
   Say and unsay, feign, flatter, or adjure.
   Milton.
   
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