Flatterable

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Open to receiving compliments or praise | Capable of being adequately praised or admired by others | Susceptible to expressions of flattery or admiration from individuals
2. Capable of being impressed or pleased by admiration or compliments from others
3. Able to be influenced positively by flattery or favorable remarks made by people

Etymology: The term "flatterable" surfaces as a relatively modern creation, derived from the verb "flatter," which means to praise someone excessively or insincerely. This adjectival form likely emerged in English to describe someone or something capable of being flattered—specifically, that which can elicit or respond well to compliments. The construction follows a straightforward pattern of adding the suffix "-able," which denotes ability or capacity, to the base verb. The verb "flatter" itself has a rich history, tracing back to the Middle English "flateren," which was influenced by the Old French "flatter" and ultimately stems from the Vulgar Latin "*flatare," meaning "to stroke" or "to caress." Thus, the essence of flattery is physically rooted in the gentle, soothing act of stroking or caressing, which over time evolved into the more abstract notion of offering praise or compliments to others, often with an insincere undertone. While "flatterable" may not have the same storied past as some more established words, its construction illustrates the dynamic nature of the English language, where new forms arise to capture the nuances of human interaction. The first recorded instances of this term are uncertain, but it likely gained traction in the late 20th or early 21st century, as language adapted to modern social contexts where the dynamics of praise and persuasion became increasingly complex. This adjective captures a particular quality of susceptibility to flattery, evoking images of individuals who might thrive on compliments or praise—whether genuinely or manipulatively. In a world where social interactions often hinge on perceptions and impressions, the notion of being flatterable resonates with the intricacies of human relationships and the power of words.

Synonyms: praiseworthy, commendable, laudable, admirable, deserving

Antonyms: unworthy, disgraceful, shameful, blameworthy, discreditable