SKIP TO CONTENT

blandishment

/ˈblændɪʃmənt/

Other forms: blandishments

When you hear a blandishment come your way, you may feel flattered, as that's what a blandisher intends to do. However, beware because that flattery may come with the underlying intention of persuading you to do something!

The noun blandishment is related to the old-fashioned verb blandish meaning "to coax with flattery, or kind words." A blandishment is often teasing in tone, and the intention to persuade is usually thinly veiled. Your brother may use a blandishment or two to get you to do his chores, and you're going to know exactly what he's after. But the saying "You get more flies with honey" just might hold true if you find yourself taking out the trash when it's not your turn.

Definitions of blandishment
  1. noun
    flattery intended to persuade
    synonyms: cajolery, palaver
    see moresee less
    type of:
    flattery
    excessive or insincere praise
  2. noun
    the act of urging by means of teasing or flattery
    synonyms: wheedling
    see moresee less
    types:
    ingratiation, insinuation
    the act of gaining acceptance or affection for yourself by persuasive and subtle blandishments
    type of:
    enticement, temptation
    the act of influencing by exciting hope or desire
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

A paragraph of text

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘blandishment'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Look up blandishment for the last time

Close your vocabulary gaps with personalized learning that focuses on teaching the words you need to know.

VocabTrainer - Vocabulary.com's Vocabulary Trainer