compliment

com⋅pli⋅ment

   /n. ˈkɒmpləmənt; v. ˈkɒmpləˌmɛnt/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [n. kom-pluh-muhnt; v. kom-pluh-ment] Show IPA Pronunciation

–noun

1.	an expression of praise, commendation, or admiration: A sincere compliment boosts one's morale.

2.	a formal act or expression of civility, respect, or regard: The mayor paid him the compliment of escorting him.

3.	compliments, a courteous greeting; good wishes; regards: He sends you his compliments.

4.	Archaic. a gift; present.

–verb (used with object)

5.	to pay a compliment to: She complimented the child on his good behavior.

6.	to show kindness or regard for by a gift or other favor: He complimented us by giving a party in our honor.

7.	to congratulate; felicitate: to compliment a prince on the birth of a son.

–verb (used without object)

8.	to pay compliments.

¹com·pli·ment

Pronunciation:

\ˈkäm-plə-mənt\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle French, from Italian complimento, from Spanish cumplimiento, from cumplir to be courteous — more at comply

Date:

1598

1 a: an expression of esteem, respect, affection, or admiration ; especially : an admiring remark b: formal and respectful recognition : honor2plural : best wishes : regards compliments> <compliments of the season>