I. ˈkämpləmənt noun
( -s )
Etymology: French, from Italian complimento, from Spanish cumplimiento, from cumplir to complete, accomplish, perform what is due, be courteous (from Latin complēre to fill up) + -miento -ment — more at complete
1.
a. : a formal expression (as by speech, gesture, or ceremony) of esteem, respect, affection, or admiration
each candidate was introduced with the usual compliments
a party given in compliment to the bride by her mother
changed the name to Fort Knox, in compliment to the Secretary of War — T.R.Hay
specifically : a remark intended to praise or please
paying his best girl all sorts of compliments
b. : formal recognition : respectful consideration
he came only in compliment to the rank of his host
it behooves us … to pay the craftsmen the compliment of making a study of their language — Kenneth Ullyett
2. compliments plural : best wishes : regards
to send her compliments to a friend
a free sample is enclosed with the compliments of the manufacturer
3. now dialect : a complimentary gift : gratuity
to make a compliment of a book
II. -ˌment, -_mənt — see -ment II verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: French complimenter, from compliment, n.
transitive verb
1.
a. obsolete : to greet ceremoniously or flatteringly
b. : to pay a compliment to
complimenting his friend on the steadfastness of his interest in science — Benjamin Farrington
she was again complimented at a bridal shower given in her home — Springfield (Massachusetts) Union
2. : to present (a person) with a token of esteem, respect, affection, or admiration
complimented with an honorary degree
3. : congratulate
complimented his men on their conduct
intransitive verb
: to pay compliments
refuse to compliment with one another