flatter

1. (usually reflexive) To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false.Examples: "Before the results came out, I flattered myself that I had done well on the test. It turned out I was the worst in the class!"; "The dire imagination she did follow This sound of hope doth labour to expel; For now reviving joy bids her rejoice, And flatters her it is Adonis’ voice."ambitransitivereflexiveusually

2. (usually reflexive) To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false.Examples: "Run after that ſame peeuiſh Meſſenger / The Countes man: he left this Ring behinde him / Would I, or not: tell him, Ile none of it. / Deſire him not to flatter with his Lord, / Nor hold him vp with hopes, I am not for him:"ambitransitiveintransitiveobsoletereflexiveusually