from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Flattery \Flat"ter*y\, n.; pl. {Flatteries}. [OE. flaterie, OF.
flaterie, F. flaterie, fr. flater to flatter, F. flatter; of
uncertain origin. See {Flatter}, v. t.]
The act or practice of flattering; the act of pleasing by
artful commendation or compliments; adulation; false,
insincere, or excessive praise.
[1913 Webster]
Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present.
--Rambler.
[1913 Webster]
Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
--Burke.
Syn: Adulation; compliment; obsequiousness. See {Adulation}.
[1913 Webster]