complimentary

The word 'complimentary' originates from the Latin verb complere, meaning 'to fill up' or 'to complete'. This evolved into the Italian complimento and French compliment, referring to a formal act of courtesy which 'completes' or fulfills a social obligation. The English word 'compliment' adopted this sense of polite praise. By adding the adjectival suffix '-ary', meaning 'relating to', the term 'complimentary' was formed to describe something pertaining to or expressing a compliment. The common modern meaning of 'given free' derives from the idea of a gift offered as a gesture of courtesy or goodwill, thus completing the social transaction.

Structure: compliment + ary - compliment: From Latin complimentum, via French, meaning 'an act of civility, an expression of praise or respect'. - ary: A suffix forming adjectives, from Latin -arius, indicating 'pertaining to' or 'connected with'.