Complement
mediumPositive toneKOM-pluh-ment
noun
Definition
Something that completes or makes perfect; to complete or enhance
Memory hook
COMPLE-MENT: to COMPLETE something — wine complEments cheese (fills up what's missing).
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The wine was a perfect complement to the meal.”
“Her analytical skills complement his creative abilities.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The wine was a perfect ______ to the meal.”
Show answer
complement
Categories
GRE Tip
Complement is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "supplement" or "complete" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "detract".
Related GRE Words
augment
To make something greater by adding to it; increase
exhaustive
Including or considering all elements or aspects; fully comprehensive
ameliorate
To make something bad or unsatisfactory better
burnish
to polish; to enhance or make more impressive
comprehensive
Complete; including all or nearly all elements or aspects
enhance
to increase or improve in value, quality, or extent
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