complement
Translation
complement, supplement, addition, full number
Examples
The wine is a perfect complement to the meal.
The wine is a perfect complement to the meal.
The ship has a full complement of crew.
The ship has a full complement of crew.
Grammar Patterns
((a complement)) ((to sth.)) something that completes or makes sth. better The wine is a perfect complement to the meal.
((a full complement)) ((of sth.)) the full number of people or things needed The ship has a full complement of crew.
Similar Words
Synonyms: supplement, addition, counterpart. Homophone: compliment (praise).
Etymology
From Latin 'complementum' (that which fills up or completes), from 'complere' (to fill up).
Memory Tips
A 'complEment' makes something 'complEte'. A 'complIment' is when 'I' say something nice. Note the spelling.