taffy
/ˈtæfi/
NOUN
1. Flattery and excessive praise
Excessive or insincere praise, compliments, or expressions of admiration intended to please, impress, or gain someone's favor.
1.1. Compliments and expressions of praise
Used to describe flattering remarks, complimentary expressions, or praise intended to make someone feel admired or appreciated.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- bad-mouthing
- belittlement
- depreciation
- detraction
- disparagement
Examples
- The politician was surrounded by taffy from supporters hoping to gain his attention.
- She was tired of hearing empty taffy instead of receiving honest feedback.
Related Words
- admiration
- appreciation
- approval
- affection
- esteem
- respect
- recognition
1.2. Insincere praise and ingratiating speech
Used to describe exaggerated, insincere, or manipulative praise intended to win someone's favor, influence their decisions, or obtain personal advantages.
Synonyms
- adulation
- blandishments
- blarney
- butter
- cajolery
- fawning
- overpraise
- smarm
- soft soap
- sweet talk
- sycophancy
- toadying
Antonyms
- bad-mouthing
- disparagement
- put-down
Examples
- The manager quickly recognized the taffy as an attempt to secure a promotion.
- He used taffy and sweet talk to persuade the wealthy investor to support his proposal.
- Her constant taffy toward the director made her colleagues question her sincerity.
Related Words
- ingratiation
- manipulation
- persuasion
- cajoling
- bootlicking
- kowtowing
- obsequiousness
- servility
- insincerity