flatter

To compliment someone, often (but not necessarily) insincerely and sometimes to win favour.

A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.

1855, William H. Prescott, History of the Reign of Philip the Second, King of Spain, Boston: Phillips, Sampson & Co., Volume 1, Book 1, Chapter 7, p. 242, Some he complimented for their bravery; others he flattered by asking their advice.

To enhance or gratify someone's vanity by praising them.

To portray someone to advantage.

Her portrait flatters her.

Here is her picture: let me see; I think, If I had such a tire, this face of mine Were full as lovely as is this of hers: And yet the painter flatter’d her a little […]

To encourage or cheer someone with (usually false) hope.

[…] I went up, and sat there two Hours and an half before I cou’d discern any Thing like Land; and when I first saw it I told my Comrade, but not being certain I wou’d not call out; for the Case was of such Importance, that they were not to be trifled with, or flatter’d into vain Hopes.

To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false.

Before the results came out, I flattered myself that I had done well on the test. It turned out I was the worst in the class!

The dire imagination she did follow This sound of hope doth labour to expel; For now reviving joy bids her rejoice, And flatters her it is Adonis’ voice.

A type of set tool used by blacksmiths.

A flat-faced fulling hammer.

A drawplate with a narrow, rectangular orifice, for drawing flat strips such as watch springs.

Someone who flattens, purposely or accidentally. Also flattener.

Someone who lives in a rented flat.