— complimentable , adj. — complimenter , n. — complimentingly , adv.
n. /kom"pleuh meuhnt/ ; v. /kom"pleuh ment'/ , n.
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.
v.t.
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.
v.i.
8. to pay compliments.
[ 1570-80; complimento cumplimiento, equiv. to cumpli- (see COMPLY) + -miento -MENT; earlier identical in sp. with COMPLEMENT ]
Syn. 1. kudos, tribute, eulogy, panegyric. 5. commend, praise, honor.
Ant. 1. disparagement.
Usage . See complement .