The phrase "to butter up" means to flatter or praise someone in order to gain their favor, approval or support. It is often used in a negative connotation when someone is being insincere or manipulative in their attempts to win over another person.
Sentences with «to butter up»
Our kitchen is in need of a makeover also, and I think Butter Up would be beautiful in it. (theshabbycreekcottage.com)
Instead of spraying the iron, I would just butter up the bread real well! (listotic.com)
There are factors, however, that could butter up sales of yellow fats and edible oils. (fdbusiness.com)