Supplement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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supplement

[หˆsสŒplษชmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

health

A substance taken to improve health or to make up for a deficiency in the diet.

Synonyms

addition, boost, extra.

Examples of usage

  • Many people take vitamin supplements to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need.
  • She started taking calcium supplements after her doctor advised her to do so.
Context #2 | Verb

education

To add an extra element or feature to something in order to improve or complete it.

Synonyms

augment, complement, enhance.

Examples of usage

  • The teacher decided to supplement the textbook with additional online resources.
  • She supplements her income by tutoring students in the evenings.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Health and Nutrition

  • Vitamins and minerals taken in addition to food are considered dietary supplements.
  • Originally introduced to combat nutrient deficiencies, they are now often used to enhance health and wellness.
  • The FDA regulates supplements but doesn't have the same rigorous testing requirements as medications.

Education

  • In academics, supplements might include additional resources like guides or practice tests to help students learn better.
  • Supplemental instruction sessions are designed to enhance learning in specific subjects, providing extra help.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, many influencers promote dietary supplements, impacting consumer trends and health awareness.
  • Certain video games include supplements as power-ups or boosts to enhance players' abilities.

Literature

  • In publishing, a supplementary resource can be an additional text or workbook that adds context to a main book.
  • Some authors create supplemental materials for their novels, like maps or guides, to enrich the reader's experience.

Origin of 'supplement'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'supplementum', which means 'something added'.
  • In the 15th century, it evolved in English to refer primarily to additional material or support.

The word 'supplement' has its roots in Latin, coming from the word 'supplementum', which means 'something added to complete a thing'. The concept of using supplements for health dates back centuries, with various cultures using herbs, minerals, and other substances to improve well-being. In modern times, supplements have become a common part of many people's daily routines, with a wide variety of options available for different health needs.


See also: suppleness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,462, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.