FLAT'TERY, n. 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.
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