To flatter or cajole someone in order to gain favor, persuade them, or instigate an action.
会議で彼をおだてて、発言してもらった。
I flattered him in the meeting so he would speak up.
子供をおだてて宿題をさせることもある。
Sometimes you can get children to do their homework by flattering them.
あの政治家は群衆をおだてて支持を広げた。
That politician won broader support by flattering and cajoling the crowd.