congratulation
UK: kənˌɡrætʃuˈleɪʃən | US: kənˌɡrætʃuˈleɪʃən
n. an expression of joy or praise for someone’s achievement or good fortune
n. (often plural) formal words or actions celebrating a happy event
congratulation = con<together> + grat<pleasing> + ulation<noun suffix>
- con<together>: From Latin cum (with, together), indicating collective action.
- grat<pleasing>: From Latin gratus (pleasing, thankful), forming the core meaning of joy or approval.
- ulation<noun suffix>: A nominalizing suffix derived from Latin -ulatio, indicating the act or result of the verb.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin congratulatio, combining con- (together) and gratulari (to express joy). It originally described a communal expression of joy, often in religious or ceremonial contexts. Over time, it broadened to include personal celebrations. The morphemes reflect shared (con-) and positive (grat-) sentiments, logically evolving into modern usage for acknowledging achievements.
She received heartfelt congratulations from her colleagues after the promotion.
The team exchanged congratulations upon winning the championship.
His speech included warm congratulations to the newlyweds.
Social media flooded with congratulations for the Nobel Prize winner.
A simple "congratulations" can mean a lot to someone who worked hard.