complement

(noun, verb)

noun

1. a word or phrase used to complete a grammatical construction

Definition categories: communication, construction, expression

2. a complete number or quantity

- a full complement

Definition categories: quantity, count

3. number needed to make up a whole force

- a full complement of workers

Definition categories: group, hands, manpower, men, workforce

4. something added to complete or embellish or make perfect

- a fine wine is a perfect complement to the dinner

Similar word(s): accompaniment

Definition categories: attribute, adjunct

5. one of a series of enzymes in the blood serum that are part of the immune response

Definition categories: substance, enzyme

6. either of two parts that mutually complete each other

Definition categories: thought, counterpart

Sentences with complement as a noun:

- The complement of blue is orange.

- The complement of the odd numbers is the even numbers, relative to the natural numbers.

- The complement of -123 is 123.

- A DNA molecule is formed from two strands, each of which is the complement of the other.

verb

1. make complete or perfect; supply what is wanting or form the complement to

- I need some pepper to complement the sweet touch in the soup

Definition categories: change, balance, equilibrate, equilibrise, equilibrize

Sentences with complement as a verb:

- We believe your addition will complement the team.

- The flavors of the pepper and garlic complement each other, giving a very rich taste in combination.

- I believe our talents really complement each other.