Compliment — Defs

01 n. An expression, by word or act, of approbation, regard, confidence, civility, or admiration; a flattering speech or attention; a ceremonious…

1.
An expression, by word or act, of approbation, regard, confidence, civility, or admiration; a flattering speech or attention; a ceremonious greeting; as, to send one's compliments to a friend.
“Tedious waste of time, to sit and hear So many hollow compliments and lies.” — Milton.

“Many a compliment politely penned.” — Cowper.

Phrases & compounds

To make one a compliment — to show one respect; to praise one in a flattering way.

To make one's compliments to — to offer formal courtesies to.

To stand on compliment — to treat with ceremony.

Syn. See Adulation.

02 v. t. To praise, flatter, or gratify, by expressions of approbation, respect, or congratulation; to make or pay a compliment to.

1.
To praise, flatter, or gratify, by expressions of approbation, respect, or congratulation; to make or pay a compliment to.
“Monarchs should their inward soul disguise; . . . Should compliment their foes and shun their friends.” — Prior.

Syn. To praise; flatter; adulate; commend.

03 v. i. To pass compliments; to use conventional expressions of respect.

1.
To pass compliments; to use conventional expressions of respect.
“I make the interlocutors, upon occasion, compliment with one another.” — Boyle.