Compliments
/ˈkɒmplɪmənts/
Definitions
2 meaningsExpressions of praise, admiration, or flattery.
/ˈkɒmplɪmənts/
An expression of praise or admiration.
She received many compliments on her new hairstyle.
💡 Simply: When someone says something nice about you or something you've done, that's a compliment! Like, if someone tells you they love your drawing, that's a compliment.
👶 For kids: When someone says something nice to you!
More Examples
The chef was delighted by the compliments he received about his meal.
He showered her with compliments, hoping to win her over.
How It's Used
"Receiving compliments on your new outfit."
"Offering compliments on someone's achievements."
Expressions of civility, respect, or good wishes, especially in a formal context.
/ˈkɒmplɪmənts/
A formal expression of greeting or respect.
She sent her compliments to the host of the party.
💡 Simply: It's like saying 'hello' or 'thank you' in a nice, polite way, but especially for formal situations.
👶 For kids: Saying 'hi' or 'bye' to someone in a nice way.
More Examples
He offered his compliments on her excellent performance.
I extend my compliments to the bride and groom.
How It's Used
"Sending compliments to someone's home after a party."
"Offering compliments on a new acquaintance."
Idioms & expressions
pay someone a compliment
To give someone a compliment.
"He paid her a compliment about her intelligence."
fishing for compliments
To attempt to elicit compliments from others, often by subtly drawing attention to oneself or one's possessions.
"She kept talking about her new car, clearly fishing for compliments."
compliments of the season
Polite greetings given at a particular time of year, typically around the holiday season.
"The card bore the 'compliments of the season' and wishes for a happy new year."
From Middle French *compliment*, from Italian *complimento*, ultimately from Latin *complēre* ('to fulfill, complete'). Initially meant 'a polite greeting' or 'an expression of praise'.
Used since the 16th century, initially with a broader meaning of polite expressions and greetings.
Memory tip
Think of receiving a compliment and how it makes you feel—pleased and appreciated.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: complēre