Flattering

Pronunciation: /ˈflæt̬ərɪŋ/

Definitions of flattering

adjective serving to praise and commend; complimentary or favorable

Example Sentences

A1 She received a flattering compliment from her boss.

A2 The flattering dress made her feel confident.

B1 The article painted a flattering picture of the company's success.

B2 The flattering lighting in the room made everyone look their best.

C1 The artist's self-portrait was a flattering depiction of himself.

C2 Her flattering words were meant to smooth over any tensions in the room.

Examples of flattering in a Sentence

formal The dress she wore to the event was quite flattering on her.

informal That new haircut is really flattering on you!

slang Those jeans are so flattering, they make your legs look amazing.

figurative His words were flattering, but I knew he didn't mean them sincerely.

Grammatical Forms of flattering

• past tense: flattered
• plural: flatterings
• comparative: more flattering
• superlative: most flattering
• present tense: flatters
• future tense: will flatter
• perfect tense: has flattered
• continuous tense: is flattering
• singular: flattering
• positive degree: flattering
• infinitive: to flatter
• gerund: flattering
• participle: flattering

Origin and Evolution of flattering

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'flattering' originated from the Middle English word 'flaterynge' which came from the Old French 'flaterie' and ultimately from the Latin 'flattere' meaning 'to stroke, caress'.

Evolution of the word: Initially, 'flattering' had a more neutral connotation of praise or complimenting someone. Over time, it has evolved to also carry a negative connotation of insincere praise or excessive compliments aimed at gaining favor.