Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • Adapted to excite complacency or hope; gratifying; pleasurable; encouraging: as flattering words or commendations; flattering prospects; a flattering reception.
  • noun Flattery; a flattering speech or action.

from the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English.

  • adjective That flatters (in the various senses of the verb).

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

  • adjective Attractive or good-looking; that makes one look good.
  • verb Present participle of flatter.
  • noun The action of the verb to flatter.
  • noun Instances of flattery.

from WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.

  • adjective showing or representing to advantage

Etymologies

Sorry, no etymologies found.

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Examples

  • He would NOT have written in flattering tones about how they eschew gadgetry in favor or a more low-tech way of hunting.

    Poor Representation 2009

  • With so few good clothing options out there today, I really feel for women that want to dress in flattering clothing because they have such a hard time finding something nice.

    Modest Feminine Dress From the Pages of 1990 Victoria Magazine 2009

  • He would NOT have written in flattering tones about how they eschew gadgetry in favor or a more low-tech way of hunting.

    Poor Representation 2009

  • I don't think there's anything wrong with dressing in flattering clothes, in seeking out items that look good on you and hair and makeup that's attractive.

    What Not To Share kittenpie 2007

  • Often, this is accomplished by simply showing the product in flattering light.

    Archive 2006-08-01 2006

  • Often, this is accomplished by simply showing the product in flattering light.

    Consider commercial photography 2006

  • What's flattering is that he has me on his mind when he's at home.

    USATODAY.com 2003

  • Judah and Jerusalem desolate then this credit of the prophets, and the hopes of the people, will both sink together; the former will be found false in flattering the people and the latter foolish in suffering themselves to be imposed upon by them, and so exposed to so much the greater confusion, when the judgment shall surprise them in their security.

    Commentary on the Whole Bible Volume IV (Isaiah to Malachi) 1721

  • ... which, given the size of my nose, may only result in flattering improvements.

    Nose to the Grindstone 2008

  • 65 Thus accounting for his sickness, improbably enough but in flattering way.

    The Book of The Thousand Nights And A Night 2006

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