Flattery
Vine's Expository Dictionary of NT Words [1]
akin to kolakeuo, "to flatter," is used in 1—Thessalonians 2:5 of "words of flattery" (RV), adopted as "a cloke of covetousness," i.e., words which "flattery" uses, not simply as an effort to give pleasure, but with motives of self-interest.
King James Dictionary [2]
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.
Webster's Dictionary [3]
(v. t.) The act or practice of flattering; the act of pleasing by artiful commendation or compliments; adulation; false, insincere, or excessive praise.
Charles Buck Theological Dictionary [4]
A servile and fawning behaviour, attended with servile compliances and obsequiousness, in order to gain a person's favour.
