The word "complement" is spelled with a silent "e" after the letter "m" which indicates that the preceding vowel, "e", should be pronounced as a long vowel, /ɛɪ/. The IPA phonetic transcription for "complement" is /ˈkɒm.plɪ.mənt/. The stress falls on the second syllable, /plɪ/, and the final syllable is pronounced as /mənt/. The word "complement" can be used as a noun or a verb, and it means something that completes, enhances, or adds to something else.
Complement, as a noun, refers to something that completes or brings perfection to another thing. It is an element or part that harmoniously enhances, amplifies, or balances another component. A complement can be an addition or a counterpart that intensifies or adds value to the entirety. It fills a missing or lacking aspect and enhances the overall quality of an item, system, or concept. Complements have a symbiotic relationship, where their connection creates a unified whole.
Furthermore, complement can also refer to a group of items that make up a whole set. It signifies a collection of things that combine to form a complete unit or entity. Each element in a complement contributes to the overall coherence and integrity of the set.
In the context of grammar and linguistics, complement acts as a noun, verb, or adjective that provides additional information or serves to complete the meaning of a sentence. It adds essential details to a subject or object, amplifying or explaining its qualities, characteristics, or actions.
As a verb, complement refers to the act of completing, refining, or adding value to something. It signifies the action of bringing together disparate elements to achieve fulfillment or perfection.
Overall, complement encompasses the idea of completion, enhancement, and harmonious integration - whether in a physical, linguistic, or conceptual sense.
A filling up or completing; that which is wanted to complete or fill up some quantity or thing; something added by way of ornament.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "complement" has its origins in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "complementum", which means "that which completes" or "that which fills up". This Latin word is derived from the verb "compleo", meaning "to fill up". The term was first introduced into the English language in the 14th century with the same meaning as its Latin counterpart, with the sense of completing, supplementing, or making something whole.