Dictionary
com•pli•ment
Pronunciation: (
—n.kom'plu-munt;
—v.kom'plu-ment"), [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. compliments,a courteous greeting; good wishes; regards:
He sends you his compliments.
4. Archaic.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.
to pay compliments.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.