Complementary — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective /ˌkäm-plə-ˈmen-t(ə-)rē/ com·ple·men·ta·ry

Meaning & Definition of Complementary

Complementary (adjective)

  1. serving to fill out or complete
  2. mutually supplying each other's lack
  3. relating to or constituting one of a pair of contrasting colors that produce a neutral color when combined in suitable proportions

Complementary (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. related to each other in such a way that one completes the other

    "the complementary contributions of the cooking and cleanup committees were essential to the success of the church barbecue"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Complementary

The most common words with a similar meaning to Complementary:

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Complementary

Words with the opposite meaning of Complementary:

Word Forms of Complementary

Derived words: complementarily (adverb), complementariness (noun), complementary (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Complementary

complement:1 + -ary:2, probably in part after French complémentaire

First known use: 1829

Words & Phrases Containing Complementary

Frequently Asked Questions about Complementary

What does "Complementary" mean?

"Complementary" means serving to fill out or complete. As an adjective, it is defined as: serving to fill out or complete.

What is another word for "Complementary"?

Other words for "Complementary" include correlative, reciprocal, supplemental and supplementary. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Complementary" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Complementary"?

There are 15 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Complementary". Common alternatives include correlative, reciprocal, supplemental and supplementary.

What is the opposite of "Complementary"?

Antonyms of "Complementary" include noncomplementary and nonreciprocal.

How do you use "Complementary" in a sentence?

Examples of "Complementary" in a sentence: "the complementary contributions of the cooking and cleanup committees were essential to the success of the church barbecue".

Is "Complementary" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Complementary" is an adjective.

How do you pronounce "Complementary"?

"Complementary" is pronounced /ˌkäm-plə-ˈmen-t(ə-)rē/ and divided into syllables as com·ple·men·ta·ry.

What is the origin of the word "Complementary"?

"Complementary" comes from complement:1 + -ary:2, probably in part after French complémentaire. First known use: 1829.