Blandishment

Noun

Definition: Flattery or coaxing intended to persuade someone to do something.

Synonyms: Sweet talk, Flattery, Coaxing, Cajolery

Antonyms: Criticism, Reprimand, Chastisement

Examples:

She tried to win him over with blandishments.
He was not impressed by their empty blandishments.

Mnemonics:

Think of "bland" in blandishment as something smooth and pleasant, like butter, used to coat or sweeten someone to gain favor.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "blandishment" is derived from the late Middle English word "blandishen" which means "to flatter." It ultimately comes from the Latin word "blandus" meaning "pleasant" or "smooth."

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the act of using flattery or coaxing as a means of persuading or influencing others.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Resist the blandishments"

Explanation:

Refers to resisting or rejecting attempts of flattery or coaxing.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "blandishment" with "blandness" or "bland" (adj.)

Explanation:

While the words are related, "blandishment" specifically refers to the act of using flattery or coaxing, not to a lack of flavor or excitement (blandness) or something lacking in taste or interest (bland).