Supplemental Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
➕
supplemental
[ˌsʌpləˈmɛntəl ]
Definition
additional support
The term 'supplemental' refers to something that is added to enhance or complete something else. It is often used in contexts such as education, where supplemental materials provide extra information or support to the primary curriculum. This adjective suggests an addition that is beneficial but not essential. Various professions utilize supplemental resources to improve their effectiveness and outcomes.
Synonyms
additional, ancillary, complementary, extra.
Examples of usage
- She provided supplemental reading materials for the students.
- The company offered supplemental health insurance plans.
- He took a supplemental course to enhance his skills.
- They received supplemental funding for the project.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Education
- In education, supplemental materials are often used to reinforce learning, such as extra textbooks, worksheets, or online resources.
- Supplemental instruction is a peer-led program designed to improve student success by providing additional support in challenging courses.
- Certain educational systems provide supplemental funding to schools for specific needs, aiming to enhance educational quality.
Health & Nutrition
- In nutrition, dietary supplements are products taken to add nutrients to the diet, such as vitamins, minerals, or herbs.
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates supplements, but they are not considered medicines and are not tested as rigorously.
- Individuals may take supplements to support specific health goals, such as increasing energy or maintaining joint health.
Business
- In finance, supplemental income can refer to additional earnings from side jobs, investments, or freelance work.
- Many companies offer supplemental benefits, such as extra insurance options or retirement contributions, to attract employees.
- Supplemental data in business reports can help provide deeper insights into market trends or consumer behavior.
Arts & Media
- In publishing, supplemental content such as appendices, glossaries, or online material can offer readers more information or context.
- Supplemental music tracks in special edition albums provide fans with extra songs or demos, enhancing their listening experience.
- Many films release supplemental DVDs or Blu-rays that include behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and additional content to engage viewers.
Origin of 'supplemental'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'supplementum,' which means 'to add to.' Its roots can be traced back to 'supplere,' meaning 'to fill up.'
- It entered the English language in the late 16th century, initially used in contexts related to support or addition.
- The suffix '-al' indicates it relates to or is characterized by addition.
The word 'supplemental' originates from the Latin word 'supplementum', meaning 'that which is added or provided in addition'. This Latin term is derived from 'supplere', which means 'to fill up, supply, or meet'. Over time, the term evolved in English usage, where it began to denote an additional component that enhances or completes something already in existence. The use of 'supplemental' gained prominence in various fields such as education, healthcare, and business, where it describes resources or information added to improve or support a primary focus. The transformative nature of the term reflects its core idea: providing what is necessary to make something more effective or complete.