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.

Tedious waste of time, to sit and hear
So many hollow compliments and lies.
Milton.

Many a compliment politely penned.
Cowper.

Syn. -- See Adulation.

Com"pli*ment (?), v. t. 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.

Com"pli*ment, v. i. To pass compliments; to use conventional expressions of respect.

I make the interlocutors, upon occasion, compliment with one another.
Boyle.

• An expression of praise, congratulation or encouragement.
  
• To pay a compliment; to express a favorable opinion.