# compliments

/ˈkɑmpɫəmɛnts/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/compliments
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 2. formal greetings

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

a polite way to send good wishes or greetings, often in business.

For teachers: a formal expression of civility, respect, or regard, typically used in professional correspondence.

- The wine was sent to our table with the compliments of the manager.
- The package included a small gift with the compliments of the chairman to mark the successful merger.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'with the compliments of'.

## Examples

- She received many compliments on her new dress.
- The chef came out to the dining room after the guests sent their compliments to the kitchen.
- While some people find it difficult to accept sincere compliments without deflection, such positive reinforcement is essential for maintaining morale within a high-pressure professional environment.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.