Meaning & Definition of word "Compliment"

Compliment

/ˈkɒmplɪmənt/

1. A polite expression of praise or admiration.
- Example: She received a compliment on her new dress at the party.
2. An expression of esteem or approval.
- Example: His compliment about my cooking made me feel proud.

1. To express praise or admiration for someone or something.
- Example: She complimented him on his excellent presentation.
2. To complete or enhance something by providing a worthy counterpart.
- Example: The bright colors of the painting compliment the decor of the room.

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

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.

complimentary:

Expressing praise or admiration.

complement:

Something that completes or makes something else better.

flatter:

To praise excessively or insincerely.

Meaning: Sweet talk

Example Sentence: He was just giving her some sweet talk to impress her.

Meaning: Butter someone up

Example Sentence: He's always trying to butter her up when he needs a favor.