̘. ̈n.ˈkɔmplɪmənt 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). øcompliments 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)]