What does a complement mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/kəmˈplɪmənt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A thing that completes or enhances something else by providing what is lacking, or a set of things that complete or enhance something else.

Examples

• The wine was a perfect complement to the meal.
• Her skills were a great complement to the team.

Synonyms

• Supplement
• Accessory

Antonyms

• Opposite
• Contrast

Additional Information

The concept of a complement is often used in various fields, including mathematics, music, and psychology. In mathematics, a complement refers to a set of elements that, when combined with another set, forms a complete whole. In music, a complement refers to a harmony or melody that completes or enhances a musical piece. In psychology, a complement refers to a trait or characteristic that completes or enhances a person’s personality.

In everyday language, the term “complement” is often used to describe something that completes or enhances something else. For example, a good wine can be a complement to a meal, or a beautiful view can be a complement to a vacation. The term can also be used to describe a person’s skills or abilities that complement their personality or character.

The concept of a complement is also related to the idea of balance and harmony. A complement can help to balance out something that is lacking or incomplete, creating a sense of harmony and wholeness. This idea is reflected in the phrase “a perfect complement,” which suggests that something is complete and harmonious.

Eymology

The word “complement” comes from the Latin word “complementum,” which means “something that completes.” The Latin word is derived from the verb “complere,” which means “to complete” or “to fill up.”

Usage Notes

The term “complement” can be used in a variety of contexts, including formal and informal writing and speech. It is often used to describe something that completes or enhances something else, but it can also be used to describe a set of things that complete or enhance something else.

Cultural References

The concept of a complement has been referenced in various forms of popular culture, including music, film, and literature. For example, the phrase “a perfect complement” has been used in song lyrics and poetry to describe a romantic partner or a harmonious relationship.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “complement” include:

• “A perfect complement”
• “A complement to something”
• “To complement something”

Related Words or Phrases

Some words or phrases that are related to the concept of a complement include:

• Supplement
• Accessory
• Harmony
• Balance

Collocations

Some common collocations that include the word “complement” include:

• “A complement to the meal”
• “A complement to the team”
• “A complement to the music”

Frequency of Use

The word “complement” is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in formal and informal writing and speech. It is often used to describe something that completes or enhances something else, and it is a useful term to know in a variety of contexts.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the word “complement” include:

• “Compliment”
• “Complimant”
• “Complimentory”