adjective

complimentary

complimentary, praising, free, gratis

He made some complimentary remarks.

He made some complimentary remarks.

The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast.

The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast.

complimentary ((about/on sth.)) She was complimentary about his performance.

a complimentary ((sth.)) The ticket includes a complimentary meal.

Synonyms: (praising) flattering, appreciative; (free) free of charge, gratis; Antonyms: critical, insulting

From 'compliment' + '-ary'. It carries the two senses of the noun: an expression of praise, and something given as a courtesy (a 'compliment').

Think of a restaurant giving you a 'complimentary' dessert. It's a 'compliment' from the chef, so it's free! This links both meanings.

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