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).
Phrases and idioms:
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.
Etymology: F complimenter f. It. complimento ult. f. L (as COMPLEMENT)