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’.
