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Definition of complimentary

complimentary

/ˌkɑːmplɪˈmɛntəri/
com · pli · men · ta · ry
Adverb:complimentarily
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complimentary Lexical Profile

complimentary Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Given or supplied free of charge as a courtesy or polite gesture.

Example

"All hotel guests receive a complimentary continental breakfast each morning."

2

Expressing a compliment; praising or approving.

Example

"The theater critic wrote a highly complimentary review of the lead actor's performance."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for complimentary
Antonyms
View all antonyms for complimentary

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with its homophone 'complementary' (with an 'e'). 'Complimentary' means expressing praise or given free of charge, whereas 'complementary' describes things that combine well to form a complete whole or enhance each other.

• Rhymes for complimentary

• Nearby Words

complicity
complier
compliment
complimentary
complimenter
comply
component

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from the noun 'compliment' plus the suffix '-ary'. 'Compliment' entered English via French and Italian 'complimento', ultimately from Latin 'complementum' (that which fills up or completes), evolving in Romance languages to denote the fulfillment of polite social obligations.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Complimentary. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/complimentary
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