What does complimentary mean?
Complimentary is an adjective with two closely related uses. In its primary sense, it describes words or attitudes that express praise, admiration, or approval — a complimentary review praises a book, and complimentary remarks flatter their subject. In its second sense, it means given free of charge as a courtesy: hotels offer complimentary breakfasts, events hand out complimentary tickets, and shops may provide complimentary samples. Both senses convey warmth and goodwill, whether toward a person being praised or a customer being treated generously. The word derives ultimately from the Latin verb complere, meaning 'to fill up or complete', arriving in English through forms relating to 'compliment'. It is frequently confused with complementary, which means combining well with or completing something else — the difference of a single letter marks the difference between a kind word and a good match. Knowing both senses makes complimentary useful for describing everything from reviews to hotel amenities.
Expressing praise, admiration, or approval.
"The judges were complimentary about her innovative design."
Often used of reviews, comments, and assessments.
Given free of charge as a courtesy or act of goodwill.
"Guests received complimentary champagne on arrival."
Common in hospitality and marketing contexts.
"Complimentary" and "complementary" differ by one tiny letter — but mixing them up can turn a free gift into an incomplete puzzle.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of complimentary
Complimentary comes from the noun 'compliment', which entered English in the 17th century via French and Italian from Latin complementum ('that which fills up or completes'), itself derived from complere, 'to fill up'. The adjective developed to describe things said in the form of a compliment, and later extended to items given as a courteous gesture. It shares its ultimate Latin root with words such as complete, supplement, and accomplish.
Related word forms
How complimentary is actually used
The word carries two distinct senses that share one spelling: praising someone or something, and being provided at no cost. The 'free of charge' sense is especially common in commercial and hospitality contexts and always implies a gesture of goodwill rather than an obligation.
Easily confused with complimentary
Complimentary means expressing praise or given free of charge, while complementary means completing or combining well with something else.