Main Entry: con·grat·u·late

Pronunciation: \kən-ˈgra-chə-ˌlāt, -ˈgra-jə-\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): con·grat·u·lat·ed; con·grat·u·lat·ing

Etymology: Latin congratulatus, past participle of congratulari to wish joy, from com- + gratulari to wish joy, from gratus pleasing — more at grace

Date: 1539

1 archaic : to express sympathetic pleasure at (an event)
2 : to express vicarious pleasure to (a person) on the occasion of success or good fortune <graciously congratulated the winner>; also : to feel pleased with <congratulating herself for a job well done>
3 obsolete : salute, greet

— con·grat·u·la·tor \-ˌlā-tər\ noun

— con·grat·u·la·to·ry \-lə-ˌtȯr-ē\ adjective