ADMIRATION, n. Our polite recognition of another's resemblance to ourselves.
 Ambrose Bierce, The Devil's Dictionary (1911). copy citation

Context

“An ingenious abstraction in politics, designed to receive the kicks and cuffs due to the premier or president. A man of straw, proof against bad-egging and dead-catting.
ADMIRAL, n. That part of a war-ship which does the talking while the figure-head does the thinking.
ADMIRATION, n. Our polite recognition of another's resemblance to ourselves.
ADMONITION, n. Gentle reproof, as with a meat-axe. Friendly warning.
Consigned by way of admonition, His soul forever to perdition.
Judibras ADORE, v.t. To venerate expectantly.” source

Meaning and analysis

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