n. & v.
n. 1 a a spoken or written expression of praise. b an act or circumstance implying praise (their success was a compliment to their efforts). 2 (in pl.) a formal greetings, esp. as a written accompaniment to a gift etc. (with the compliments of the management). b praise (my compliments to the cook).
v.tr. 1 (often foll. by on) congratulate; praise (complimented him on his roses). 2 (often foll. by with) present as a mark of courtesy (complimented her with his attention). compliments of the season greetings appropriate to the time of year, esp. Christmas. compliments slip a printed slip of paper sent with a gift etc., esp. from a business firm. pay a compliment to praise. return the compliment 1 give a compliment in return for another. 2 retaliate or recompense in kind.
[ F complimenter f. It. complimento ult. f. L (as COMPLEMENT) ]