n.
  
/
ˈkɒmplɪm(ə)nt/
 a polite expression of praise or admiration. 
▸
(compliments)
 congratulations or praise expressed to someone.
 ▸
(compliments)
 formal greetings sent as a message.
v.
  
/
ˈkɒmplɪmɛnt/
  
- politely congratulate or praise.
 - 
(compliment someone with)
 archaic present someone with (something) as a mark of courtesy.
 
 
  Phrase
  
    - return the compliment
 retaliate or respond in kind.  - with one's compliments
 provided free of charge. 
   
  Usage
  On the confusion of compliment with complement, see complement.
  Etymology
  C17: from Fr. compliment (n.), complimenter (v.), from Ital. complimento ‘fulfilment of the requirements of courtesy’, from L. complementum ‘completion, fulfilment’.