complimental, a.
(kɒmplɪˈmɛntəl)
[f. compliment n. + -al1; practically an altered spelling of complemental, after compliment.]
† 1. Of the nature of a form or ceremony; formal, ceremonial. Obs.
| [1637–1695 see complemental 4.] 1686 F. Spence tr. Varillas' Ho. Medici 370 The seven Cardinals..being there under a complimental confinement. 1703 in Four C. Eng. Lett. 142 At the distance, I see, by this complimental way of treatment, I still am, I shall not have time enough in this world to get to you. |
2. Of the nature of a compliment or formal expression of courtesy; expressive of or implying compliments. arch. and dial.
| [1603–1703 see complemental 6.] a 1745 Swift Wks. (1841) II. 237 The highest encomiums are to be looked upon as purely complimental. 1779 J. Moore View Soc. Fr. (1789) I. x. 63 Their language abounds in complimental phrases. 1787 Burns Cotter's Sat. Nt. xi, The dame brings forth in complimental mood, To grace the lad, her weelhain'd kebbuck. 1819 T. Hope Anastasius (1831) II. 216 The complimental epistle. |
† b. Of persons: Given to paying compliments.
| [1653 D. Osborne Lett. (1888) 113 We are certainly the most Complementall Couple in England.] a 1720 Sheffield (Dk. Buckhm.) Wks. (1753) II. 213 Being complimental and cringing..passes with many for good breeding. 1766 Fordyce Serm. Yng. Wom. (1767) II. ix. 76 It is your smooth, cool, complimental libertines. |
Hence complimenˈtality nonce-wd.
| a 1797 H. Walpole Lett. H. Mann. |