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Definition of congratulation

congratulation

/kənˌɡrætʃ.əˈleɪ.ʃən/
con · grat · u · la · tion
Plural:congratulations
•
Adjective:congratulatory
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congratulation Lexical Profile

congratulation Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

(Usually in the plural) Words or expressions conveying praise and good wishes on a special occasion or for a particular success.

Example

"Please accept our heartfelt congratulations on your graduation."

2

The act of expressing praise, pleasure, or good wishes to someone for an achievement or good fortune.

Example

"She sent a warm letter of congratulation to the newly elected mayor."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for congratulation
Antonyms
View all antonyms for congratulation

Word Nuance & Usage

While the singular form 'congratulation' is used to refer to the abstract act or a specific instance of expressing praise, the plural form 'congratulations' is far more common in everyday speech when directly addressing someone to celebrate their good fortune or achievement.

• Rhymes for congratulation

• Nearby Words

congo
congolese
congratulate
congratulation
congratulations
congratulatory
congregant

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 15th century from Middle French or directly from Latin congratulationem ('a wishing of joy'), a noun of action from the verb congratulari, formed from com- ('together') and gratulari ('to wish joy'), ultimately from gratus ('pleasing, thankful').

Cite this Entry

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