Butters up' is an idiom that means to flatter or compliment someone in order to gain favor. The crossword solutions for this term are BASTES (6 letters), FLATTERS (8 letters), WOOS (4 letters), PRAISES (7 letters), and SOFTSOAPS (9 letters). Basting is a cooking technique where liquid is applied to food to keep it moist, but in this context it is used to describe the act of flattering someone. Flattering is the act of giving compliments to someone in order to make them feel good. Wooing is the act of courting someone, usually with compliments and gifts. Praising is the act of expressing admiration or approval for someone. Softsoaping is a term used to describe the act of using flattery and compliments to manipulate someone.