Complement

Definition

Complement is a noun and verb that refers to something that completes or enhances something else when combined with it. As a noun, it describes a thing that brings to perfection a larger whole, while as a verb, it means to add something in a way that enhances or improves it.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːmpləmənt/
• Respelling: KOM-pluh-ment

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒmplɪmənt/
• Respelling: KOM-pli-muhnt

The pronunciation of "complement" is similar in both American and British English, with minor differences in vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "complement" comes from the Latin word "complementum," meaning "that which fills up or completes." This, in turn, derives from "complere," meaning "to fill up," composed of "com-" meaning "together" and "plere" meaning "to fill." The word was first used in English in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Complementary (adjective)
• Complementation (noun)
• Complementer (noun)
• Complementarily (adverb)
• Complemental (adjective)

Synonyms

• Enhancement
• Companion
• Supplement

Antonyms

• Contrast
• Opposition
• Detraction

Usage

The word "complement" is used in contexts where something completes or goes well with another thing. For example, "The wine was a perfect complement to the cheese," or "Her skills complement those of her partner, making them an effective team."

Related Terms

• Complementary: Something that enhances or goes well with something else.
• Supplement: An additional element that enhances or completes something.
• Counterpart: A person or thing holding a position or performing a function that corresponds to that of another person or thing in a different area.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Something that completes or brings to perfection: Refers to something that, when added, makes a whole or perfects it.
  • Example: "The sauce was a great complement to the dish."
• A number or quantity of something required to make a group complete: Used to refer to the complete number of something.
  • Example: "The ship has a full complement of crew members."

Verb

• To add something that enhances or improves: Refers to the action of adding something to make it better or more complete.
  • Example: "The new curtains perfectly complement the decor."