from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Compliment \Com"pli*ment\, n. [F. compliment. It complimento,
fr. comlire to compliment, finish, suit, fr. L. complere to
fill up. See {Complete}, and cf. {Complement}.]
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.
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Tedious waste of time, to sit and hear
So many hollow compliments and lies. --Milton.
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Many a compliment politely penned. --Cowper.
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{To make one a compliment}, to show one respect; to praise
one in a flattering way. --Locke.
{To make one's compliments to}, to offer formal courtesies
to.
{To stand on compliment}, to treat with ceremony.
Syn: See {Adulation}.
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