Pronunciation: k ə n- ' gra-ch ə - ˌ l ā t, - ' gra-j ə -
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form: -lat · ed ; -lat · ing
Etymology: Latin congratulatus, past participle of congratulari to wish joy, from com- + gratulari to wish joy, from gratus pleasing ― more at GRACE
Date: 1539
1 archaic : to express sympathetic pleasure at (an event)
2 : to express vicarious pleasure to (a person) on the occasion of success or good fortune <graciously congratulated the winner> also : to feel pleased with < congratulating herself for a job well done>
3 obsolete : SALUTE , GREET
– con · grat · u · la · tor \ - ˌ l ā -t ə r \ noun
– con · grat · u · la · to · ry \ -l ə - ˌ to ̇ r- ē \ adjective