Compliment

/ˈkɒmplɪmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A polite expression of praise or admiration.
She received a compliment on her new dress at the party.
An expression of esteem or approval.
His compliment about my cooking made me feel proud.
verb
To express praise or admiration for someone or something.
She complimented him on his excellent presentation.
To complete or enhance something by providing a worthy counterpart.
The bright colors of the painting compliment the decor of the room.

Etymology

From Latin 'complementum', meaning 'that which fills up' or 'completes'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

give someone a compliment
To express admiration or praise to someone.
return the compliment
To respond to someone's compliment with one of your own.
take it as a compliment
To interpret a comment or action positively, even if it seems negative.

Related Words

complimentary
Expressing praise or admiration.
complement
Something that completes or makes something else better.
flatter
To praise excessively or insincerely.

Slang Meanings

Sweet talk
He was just giving her some sweet talk to impress her.
Butter someone up
He's always trying to butter her up when he needs a favor.