complimentary

[ kom-pluh-men-tuh-ree, -tree ]

adjective

1. given free as a gift or courtesy:

   The hotel gives repeat guests a complimentary gift basket

2. expressing a compliment, often one that is politely flattering:

   a complimentary remark.

   Synonyms: laudatory, commendatory

   Antonyms: abusive

3. showing or conveying approval or favor:

   Our project was received in a complimentary spirit by the community.

   His analysis of our work was not as complimentary as we were hoping it would be.

noun

, plural com·pli·men·ta·ries.

1. something given or supplied without charge, such as lodging, transportation, or meals, especially as an inducement to prospective customers.

complimentary

/ -trɪ; ˌkɒmplɪˈmɛntərɪ /

adjective

1. conveying, containing, or resembling a compliment
2. expressing praise; flattering
3. given free, esp as a courtesy or for publicity purposes

Derived Forms

• ˌcompliˈmentarily, adverb

Other Words From

• com·pli·men·ta·ri·ly [kom-pl, uh, -m, uh, n-, tair, -, uh, -lee], adverb
• com·pli·men·ta·ri·ness noun
• in·ter·com·pli·men·ta·ry adjective
• qua·si-com·pli·men·ta·ry adjective
• un·com·pli·men·ta·ry adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of complimentary¹

First recorded in 1620–30; compliment + -ary

Example Sentences

As Delany put it, “The extent to which the American people carry this glorification of military crusaders is beyond a parallel. ... The extent to which this homage is carried ceases to be respectful since it is neither kind nor complimentary, but like the homage of the serf to the noble or the vassal to his lord, it is ludicrous.”

From Salon

On offer right now are four complimentary passes to the L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Grab a free slice of pizza, a complimentary tiramisu dessert or a free shot for showing your “I Voted” sticker on election day, plus where to stress-watch live election results around L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Grab a free slice of pizza, a complimentary tiramisu dessert or a free shot for showing your “I Voted” sticker on election day, plus where to stress-watch live election results around L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

Not everyone has been as complimentary of Chromakopia's Monday morning release, however.

From BBC

Related Words

• appreciative
• congratulatory
• polite
• respectful