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.
The King James Bible has stood its ground for nearly 400 years. However, during that time the English language has changed, and with it the meanings of some words it used. Here are more than 6,500 words whose definitions have changed since 1611.Wikipedia
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