Complement: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'complementum,' meaning 'that which fills up or completes.'
• It has been used in English since the late 14th century to refer to various forms of completeness.
• 'Complement' is often confused with 'compliment,' which refers to praise, but their roots are quite different.

Mathematics

• In geometry, the complement of an angle refers to what, when added to it, equals 90 degrees.
• Complementary angles help form right angles and are fundamental in various geometric constructions.
• Understanding complements is crucial in trigonometry, where they relate to sine, cosine, and tangent functions.

Language

• In grammar, a complement is a word or group of words that complete the meaning of a verb.
• For example, in the sentence 'She is a teacher,' 'a teacher' is a complement that gives more information about 'she.'
• The richness of a language often depends on the use of complements to enhance clarity and expressiveness.

Culinary Arts

• In food, some flavors are considered complements, enhancing the taste when combined, like peanut butter and jelly.
• Wine experts often discuss complementary pairings with food, where certain wines enhance the flavors of a dish.
• Understanding complements in cooking can elevate a dish from good to extraordinary by balancing tastes and textures.

Psychology

• In social psychology, compliments can boost self-esteem and create positive interactions between people.
• A belief in the 'complementarity principle' suggests that opposites can enhance relationships, such as introverts and extroverts complementing each other.
• Learning how to give and receive compliments can improve your social skills and enhance friendships.

At #5,919 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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• 5919 complement
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