Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Flattery \Flat"ter*y\, n.; pl. {Flatteries}. [OE. flaterie, OF.
   flaterie, F. flaterie, fr. flater to flatter, F. flatter; of
   uncertain origin. See {Flatter}, v. t.]
   The act or practice of flattering; the act of pleasing by
   artiful commendation or compliments; adulation; false,
   insincere, or excessive praise.

         Just praise is only a debt, but flattery is a present.
                                                  --Rambler.

         Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver.
                                                  --Burke.

   Syn: Adulation; compliment; obsequiousness. See {Adulation}.

Source : WordNet®

flattery
     n : excessive or insincere praise