\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.
{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}.

\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.