complementation

noun

com·​ple·​men·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-plə-(ˌ)men-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce complementation (audio)
-mən-
1
: the operation of determining the complement of a mathematical set
2
: production of normal phenotype in an individual heterozygous for two closely related mutations with one on each homologous chromosome and at a slightly different position

Examples of complementation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Interspecies blastocyst complementation is a method that could help create human organs in animals. Study Summaries, Scientific American, 17 May 2023 Though the papers overlap to a great extent, there are subtle differences which result in complementation. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 9 July 2011 The details of complementation of two alleles matter a great deal to the bottom line, and the concept of hybrid vigor has percolated out to the general public, with the more informed being cognizant of heterozygosity. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 17 Nov. 2010 Since two lineages will likely have different deleterious alleles, crossing them will result in immediate complementation and masking of the deleterious alleles in heterozygote state. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 27 July 2010

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'complementation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of complementation was in 1942

Dictionary Entries Near complementation

Cite this Entry

“Complementation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complementation. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

complementation

noun
com·​ple·​men·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-plə-(ˌ)men-ˈtā-shən, -mən- How to pronounce complementation (audio)
1
: the formation of neutral colors from complementary colors
2
: production of normal phenotype in an individual heterozygous for two closely related mutations with one on each homologous chromosome and at a slightly different position
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