complimentary close

[ kom-pluh-men-tuh-ree klohz, ‐-men-tree ]

noun

1. the part of a letter that by convention immediately precedes the signature, as “Very truly yours,” “Cordially,” or “Sincerely yours.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of complimentary close¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The signature is written below the complimentary close and a little to the right, so that it ends about at the right-hand margin.

From Project Gutenberg

The complimentary close of the letter is followed by a comma and the signature by a period.

From Project Gutenberg

Washington's answer is cheerful, and its complimentary close exceptionally cordial.

From Project Gutenberg