compliment: Meaning and Definition of

com•pli•ment

Pronunciation: (n.kom'plu-muntv.kom'plu-ment&sec), [key]
— 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. a courteous greeting; good wishes; regards: He sends you his compliments.
  4. a gift; present.
—v.t.
  1. to pay a compliment to: She complimented the child on his good behavior.
  2. to show kindness or regard for by a gift or other favor: He complimented us by giving a party in our honor.
  3. to congratulate; felicitate: to compliment a prince on the birth of a son.
—v.i.
  1. to pay compliments.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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