complement 1 of 2

Definition of complementnext
1
as in supplement
something that serves to complete or make up for a deficiency in something else with his practicality and her refreshing enthusiasm, they are perfect complements to each other

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2
as in capacity
the largest number or amount that something can hold a full complement of sailors on the ship

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complement

2 of 2

verb

as in to adorn
to serve as a completing element to this silk handkerchief will complement your suit very nicely and give it a bit of dash

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of complement
Noun
Best of all, these eclectic complements come in all shapes and sizes—from modern designs by contemporary artists and local artisans to collectible porcelains resold by vintage dealers. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 20 Apr. 2026 Make sure the music stays in the background and complements, not competes with, the conversation. Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 20 Apr. 2026
Verb
That would only win half the battle, since everyone is affected by addictive design patterns, and the DFA represents a surgical approach that complements the blunt instrument of blanket bans. Parmy Olson, Mercury News, 25 Apr. 2026 Though the roster is regarded as Super Bowl ready, the Rams could use another receiver to complement stars Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for complement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complement
Noun
  • Drink Fennel Tea to Debloat Instead of expensive debloating supplements or gummies with dubious evidence to support them, opt for something that's more natural and affordable.
    Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 26 Apr. 2026
  • With 180 capsules, this supplement can last a long time.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 24 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Saudi Arabia’s East-West Petroline pipeline is operating near its 7 million-barrel-per-day capacity, with expansion plans under review.
    Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Leland Dudek is former acting commissioner of Social Security, writing in his personal capacity.
    Leland Dudek, Hartford Courant, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Families flock to the Cape for mini-golfing, traipsing around sand dunes, comparing ice cream stands, gobbling up lobster rolls, spotting whales, and simply admiring the gray cedar shake houses adorned with colorful buoys.
    Kara Williams, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2026
  • For her first solo outing with granddaughter-in-law Meghan Markle in June 2018, the Queen chose a lime green suit dress by Stewart Parvin with a matching hat adorned with flowers.
    Andrea Wurzburger, PEOPLE, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Nacua plays a high-volume, physical style that constantly exposes him to hits.
    Nate Atkins, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • In her account of the period, when a brave citizen speaks out, a volume of Shakespeare is likely close at hand.
    Charlie Tyson, The Atlantic, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The verdict As if its beautiful beaches and stunning lagoon aren’t enough to lull you into a sense of deep relaxation, Joali Being will stop at nothing to enhance your sense of wellbeing.
    Ann Lee, TheWeek, 30 Apr. 2026
  • Now Union Pacific has to demonstrate that this deal will enhance competition.
    Josh Funk, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The hospital’s owners in 2019, Quorum Health, offered to give the hospital to the city to run, along with $25,000 for a consultant to help with real estate development, according to a 2019 city news release.
    Addison Wright, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026
  • The majority of donations were $2,500 or less, coming from individuals and PACs representing different working groups, such as airline pilots, engineers and the real estate investment trust industry, or topics of interest, like reproductive rights.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 29 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Among the stores are a couple in South Florida that were on last summer’s list that were not completed as planned in 2025.
    Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Caltrans reopened northbound lanes of 19th Avenue in San Francisco early Monday morning, as crews completed the first of three weekend closures for repaving work.
    Tim Fang, CBS News, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Cakes big and small are the ideal stage for your wildest decorating dreams.
    Shilpa Uskokovic, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Each of the suites are decorated with the same Mediterranean style and have private patios and balconies perfect for watching the sunset.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Complement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complement. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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