Slattery

/ˈslætəri/ noun

Definition

Excessive flattery or praise given insincerely, often to manipulate or gain favor.

Etymology

From 'slat' (to strike) or variant of 'flattery,' this word is primarily known from Patrick MacGill's works and regional British English. Its exact etymology is uncertain but likely relates to 'slat' meaning to hit or scatter (as in scattered compliments).

Kelly Says

Slattery is almost a regional ghost-word—it shows up occasionally in Irish and Scottish literature but never quite became standard English, which is fascinating because we clearly needed a word for 'overly thick flattery' but grabbed 'flattery' instead!

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