congratulation

noun

con·​grat·​u·​la·​tion kən-ˌgra-chə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce congratulation (audio)
-ˌgra-jə-
1
: a congratulatory expression
—usually plural
Congratulations on your promotion.
2
: the act of congratulating

Synonyms of congratulation

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Examples of congratulation in a Sentence

Let me offer you my congratulations for being elected. Please send her my congratulations. I sent her a letter of congratulations.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Coates was the leading receiver for an Auburn program that reached the national championship game in the 2013 season under coach Gus Malzahn, who posted a note of congratulations Sunday. — David Ubben, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 DeSantis has yet to endorse Donalds for governor, but offered congratulations on his primary victory on Tuesday. — Ashley Borja, Miami Herald, 21 Aug. 2026 Directed by Nolan, *The Odyssey* opened with nearly $124 million domestically and has maintained a strong theatrical run, even drawing congratulations from *Deadpool & Wolverine* star Ryan Reynolds. — Tim Lammers, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Famous friends including Poppy Delevingne, Mia Tyler and Sophie Dahl also expressed their congratulations. — Adam England, PEOPLE, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for congratulation

Word History

Etymology

see congratulate

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of congratulation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing congratulation

Rhymes for congratulation

See All Rhymes for congratulation

Browse Nearby Words

congratulate
congratulation
congratulator
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Congratulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/congratulation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

congratulation

noun
con·​grat·​u·​la·​tion kən-ˌgrach-ə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce congratulation (audio)
1
: the act of congratulating
2
: an expression of joy or pleasure at another's success or good fortune
—usually used in plural
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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