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

1archaic : 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>3obsolete : salute, greet

— con·grat·u·la·tor \-ˌlā-tər\ noun

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