compliment

com-pli-ment · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An expression of praise, admiration, or respect.

  2. 2.

    To express praise or admiration to someone.

  3. 3.

    A formal greeting or expression of respect.

Forms

plural: compliments

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    pay someone a compliment — to praise someone
  • •
    return the compliment — to respond in kind
  • •
    backhanded compliment — an insult disguised as praise

Related words

Antonyms: complaint, criticism, insult
See also: complement, compliments, praise
Synonyms: commendation, flattery, praise, tribute

Etymology

From French "compliment," from Italian "complimento," from Spanish "cumplimiento" meaning accomplishment, fulfillment, from Latin "complere" (to complete).