Flatter one couple embracing the ne plus ultra? (7)

I believe the answer is:

imitate

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'flatter' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are verbs in their base form, I can't understand how they can define each other.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for imitate that I've seen before include "Take as a model" , "Copy or mimic" , "I ate Tim! (anag.)" , "Reproduce" , "'Ape, copy (7)'" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.