Another definition of “compliment” is added into the English language: “a present or favor bestowed, a complimentary gift.”
The spelling of the noun “compliment” shifts from “e” to “i” because of the Italian noun “complimento”—it’s defined as: "expression of respect and civility."
Compliment with an “i,” derived from the French word “complimenter,” is added to the English language as a verb with the definition: "to pay a compliment to, flatter or gratify by expression of admiration, respect."
The first version of the word "compliment" was derived from the Latin word “complementum," which was created during this time.
Ron Burgundy: “You’re like a miniature Buddha, covered in hair.”
Aibileen: “You is kind, you is smart, you is important.”
Buddy: "You have such a pretty face, you should be on a Christmas card!”
Jerry: “You complete me.”
Clark Griswold: “My cousin in-law, whose heart is bigger than his brain, is innocent.”
Complimenting friends and co-workers on National Compliment Day is a given, but step out of your comfort zone and compliment people you don’t even know. Gas station attendants, Starbucks baristas, bank tellers, the grumpy worker at the DMV — everyone's worthy of receiving a compliment!
Even though an in-person compliment may seem more genuine, what matters is making people feel good about themselves. Be sure to use the hashtag #NationalComplimentDay to reach more of them.
See if you can get friends and family to compliment at least one person. Spreading good cheer is contagious.
Receiving a compliment can certainly brighten your day. Having someone notice positive traits can instantly make you stand a littler taller and walk more confidently.
Unlike Christmas, where you’re stressing out about spending money on gifts, compliments are free. Plus, anyone can give a compliment — regardless of what's in your bank account.
Here's some helpful advice for bosses and supervisors: Compliments are a powerful way to motivate continued employee efforts. Studies show that rewarding a person with either compliments or money activate the same area of the brain. Thus, compliments can increase on-the-job performance.