Synonyms of congratulate

congratulate

verb

kən-ˈgra-chə-ˌlāt 

as in to commend

to express to (someone) admiration for his or her success or good fortune

let me be the first to congratulate you on winning the award

Synonyms & Similar Words

• commend
• cheer
• hug
• compliment
• praise
• applaud
• salute
• felicitate
• hail
• extol
• laud
• glorify

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• minimize
• disparage
• diminish
• decry
• belittle
• write off
• discount
• put down
• deprecate
• depreciate
• bad-mouth
• tease
• ridicule
• mock
• cry down
• taunt
• jeer

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of congratulate

Lee called to congratulate Hirschkorn and welcome him to the organization, offering a warm introduction from someone who grew up just 11 miles down the road. — Jesús Cano, New York Times, 17 July 2026

The news station later reported on the incident, with Menitoff’s colleagues congratulating her on her ability to stay cool. — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 16 July 2026

Postmatch, the king of Spain, King Felipe VI, was one of the first to congratulate La Roja on snapping the 16-year drought. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 July 2026

The heir to the throne had competed on the field and was part of the winning team, prompting the future queen to congratulate him with the rare PDA. — Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 14 July 2026