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idiom

butter someone up

BUT-ur SUM-wun UP

ˈbʌtər ˈsʌmwʌn ʌp

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Syllable breakdown

buttersomeoneup

Dictionary meaning

flatter someone excessively in order to gain their favour, approval, or a desired benefit; use complimentary or obsequious behaviour as a means of persuasion; the image draws on the smooth, lubricating quality of butter and on the ancient practice of applying clarified butter to sacred statues in Hindu and other traditions as an act of seeking divine favour

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