feeding the octopus 

Complimenting someone or gassing them up to the point where you're feeding their excessive ego, like a greedy, hungry octopus. 'Octopus' is also phonetically similar to solipsism, the idea that only the self exists.

Lou: You look so amazing today Julia.
Julia: (already full of herself) Omg thanks.

Briana: Lou, you're just feeding the octopus.

feeding the octopus by bri_bel April 24, 2017