lay it on with a trowel Definition

trowel
noun

1. A small hand-held tool with a flat blade that is used for applying and spreading mortar, plaster, etc.
2. A similar tool with a blade that is slightly curved in on itself and which is used for potting plants, etc.

verb

trowelled, trowelling
1. To use a trowel, eg to apply, spread, etc (plaster, etc).

Idiom: lay it on with a trowel

To act in an overly sycophantic way; to use excessive flattery.

Etymology: 14c: from French truel.