Complimentary close, or Complimentary closing is the term, expression, or phrase which immediately precede the signature on a note, letter, or correspondence, most often written. The word or words so written express the esteem or regard for the person to whom the correspondence is directed. It is sometimes confused with valediction, which is the act of bidding farewell, especially orally. English language complimentary closings typically contain the word yours, a contraction of your servant; old closings were usually some voluminous statement, a complete sentence of the form
I beg to remain, Sir, your most humble and obedient servant, A.B.
This kind of ceremonious closing is still in use in some countries, for instance in France and Italy.
