complimentum

Complimentum is a Latin noun meaning a compliment or a gesture of courtesy; in classical texts it denotes both verbal praise and ceremonial acts intended to honor someone. Grammatically a neuter noun of the second declension, it appears in various contexts ranging from rhetorical praise to social greetings or tokens (gifts, gestures) given to dignitaries or guests. The term is often encountered in discussions of politeness and social ritual in ancient literature.

Etymology: Complimentum is the source of the English word compliment. It entered English via Old French compliment, which in turn derives from Latin complimentum. The sense broadened in English to cover not only verbal praise but also the broader idea of courteous acts and remarks.

In modern usage, “compliment” is the common English form, with “complimentary” used as an adjective meaning expressing praise or given as a courtesy, and sometimes meaning free of charge. In classical studies, complimentum is sometimes used to describe a ceremonial or social dimension of praise, rather than only the content of the praise.

See also: compliment; politeness; Latin grammar; rhetoric.