congratulation

[kuhn-grach-uh-ley-shuhn, -graj-, kuhng-]

noun

1. the act of congratulating.

2. congratulations, an expression of joy in the success or good fortune of another.

interjection

1. congratulations, (used to express joy in the success or good fortune of another).

   Congratulations! You have just won the lottery!

Other Word Forms

• congratulational adjective
• precongratulation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of congratulation¹

1400–50; late Middle English < Late Latin congrātulātiōn- (stem of congrātulātiō ), equivalent to congrātulāt ( us ) ( congratulate ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

First of all, Grace: congratulations on your inaugural hosting year!

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The two men decided to write to Sanborn to share their discovery -- but instead of congratulations, they were met by alarm.

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"She sent me a letter of congratulations when I received the MBE which meant the world."

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There were deafening cheers and congratulations from the people all around.

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Former President Barack Obama offered his congratulations to the Democratic winners, though stopped short of declaring total victory.

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Related Words

• applause 
• commendation 
• felicitation 
• salute