compliment etymology

Etymology

The word "compliment" is derived from the Latin word "complere," which means "to fulfill" or "to fill up."

Meaning

A compliment is an expression of admiration, praise, or flattery. It can be used to acknowledge someone's appearance, achievements, qualities, or actions.

Origin

The use of "compliment" as a term for praise or admiration originated in the 16th century. Initially, it was used in the sense of completing something, such as fulfilling a request or obligation. However, over time, it came to be used more specifically for expressions of positive regard.

Examples

Here are some examples of compliments:

• "You look beautiful today."
• "Congratulations on your promotion."
• "I admire your work ethic."
• "Your performance was excellent."
• "You're a great friend."

Tips for Giving Compliments

• Be genuine and specific.
• Focus on the person's strengths and accomplishments.
• Keep it brief and to the point.
• Avoid backhanded compliments or sarcasm.
• Be mindful of the person's culture and context.

compliment relate terms

• complement

  Etymology The word complement comes from the Latin word complere which means to fil

• compliment

  Etymology The word compliment is derived from the Latin word complere which means t

• complete

  Etymology The word etymology comes from the Greek words étymos meaning true and

• comply

  Etymology Old French complir Latin implere to fill Proto Indo European ple

• congratulate

  Etymology The word congratulate comes from the Latin phrase cum grātulārī which mea

• felicitate

  Etymology Latin felicitare to make happy Latin felix happy Proto Indo European

• left handed

  Etymology The term left handed is a compound word with two roots Left Old English

• treat

  Etymology The word treat comes from the Middle English word treten meaning to handl

• treat

  Etymology The word treat comes from the Middle English word treten meaning to handl

• aspire

  Etymology Old French aspirer Latin aspirare ad towards spirare to breathe Me

• praise

  Etymology of Praise Origin Old French preisier 12th century Relation to Other Lan

• greet

  Etymology Old English grétan Proto Germanic grētōn Indo European root gʰer mea