congratulate

[ kuhn-grach-uh-leytor, often, -graj-, kuhng- ]

verb (used with object)

, con·grat·u·lat·ed, con·grat·u·lat·ing.

1. to express pleasure to (a person), as on a happy occasion:

   They congratulated him on his marriage.

2. Archaic. to express sympathetic joy or satisfaction at (an event).
3. Obsolete. to salute.

congratulate

/ kənˈɡrætjʊˌleɪt /

verb

1. usually foll by on to communicate pleasure, approval, or praise to (a person or persons); compliment
2. often foll by on to consider (oneself) clever or fortunate (as a result of)

   she congratulated herself on her tact

3. obsolete.
   to greet

Derived Forms

• conˌgratuˈlation, noun
• conˈgratuˌlator, noun
• conˈgratulatory, adjective

Other Words From

• con·gratu·lator noun
• precon·gratu·late verb (used with object) precongratulated precongratulating
• uncon·gratu·lated adjective
• uncon·gratu·lating adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of congratulate¹

1540–50; < Latin congrātulātus, past participle of congrātulārī. See congratulant, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of congratulate¹

C16: from Latin congrātulārī, from grātulārī to rejoice, from grātus pleasing

Example Sentences

Last week on social media, Mr Adani congratulated Trump on his election win and pledged to invest $10bn in the US.

From BBC

The Israeli prime minister was quick to congratulate the Republican leader, and the two have chatted by phone repeatedly since the election.

From Los Angeles Times

For now, I just want to congratulate your family and team, who all played a massive role in your success.

From BBC

But after Miss Universe South Africa tweeted to congratulate her on her second place, along with both South African and Nigerian flags, some South Africans responded by saying she did not represent them.

From BBC

Multiple users channeled a popular bit from “The Office” to congratulate Krasinski — tweeting photos of actor Randall Park instead of the “If” director.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• applaud
• laud
• praise
• salute