compliment

noun

/ˈkɒm.plɪ.mənt/

/ˈkɑːm-/

Definition

C2 [C] a remark that expresses approval, admiration, or respect: She complained that her husband never paid her any compliments any more. I take it as a compliment (= I am pleased) when people say I look like my mother. Are you fishing for (= trying to get) compliments? Note: Do not confuse with complement.Remarks and remarkingExpressing and asking opinionsPraising and applaudingExaggerating and playing down C2 [S] an action that expresses approval or respect: You should take it as a compliment when I fall asleep in your company - it means I'm relaxed. Thank you so much for your help - I hope one day I'll be able to return/repay the compliment (= do something good for you).Praising and applaudingExaggerating and playing down my compliments... formal › an expression of your admiration or respect: That was an excellent meal! My compliments to the chef.InterjectionsSounds used as interjections with your compliments C2 formal › If you give something to someone with your compliments, you give it to them free: We enclose a copy of our latest brochure, with our compliments.Costing or worth little or no money

(Definition of compliment noun from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)