complication

noun

com·​pli·​ca·​tion ˌkäm-plə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: complexity, intricacy

especially : a situation or a detail of character complicating the main thread of a plot

b

: a making difficult, involved, or intricate

c

: a complex or intricate feature or element

d

: a difficult factor or issue often appearing unexpectedly and changing existing plans, methods, or attitudes

2

: a secondary disease or condition developing in the course of a primary disease or condition

Synonyms of complication

• difficulty
• complexity

Examples of complication in a Sentence

The negotiations stalled when complications arose.

Pneumonia is a common complication of AIDS.

She experienced complications during her pregnancy.

The patient died of complications from surgery.

Recent Examples on the Web

The major difference is the old North Flag had a power reserve indicator, whereas the new one ditches that in favor of a GMT complication. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2026

But because of complications in the delivery room, both women gave birth via caesarean section. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Oct. 2026

The program provides grants to states, academic institutions and non-profit organizations to gather data on the disease, complications and treatment. — ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026

Its medical-tourism guidance notes that complications and revisions can add to initial costs. — Kaitlyn Gomez, Miami Herald, 16 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English complicacioun, borrowed from Late Latin complicātiōn-, complicātiō "folding together, conglomeration," from Latin complicāre "to fold together, fold up" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at complicate entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for complication

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

complication

noun

com·​pli·​ca·​tion ˌkäm-plə-ˈkā-shən 

1

a

: an act or instance of complicating something

b

: a situation or detail of character that complicates a plot

c

: a complex feature or element

d

: something that makes a situation more complicated or difficult

we were unable to agree when complications arose

2

: a disease or bodily condition existing at the same time as and affecting the course or severity of another disease or condition

Medical Definition

complication

noun

com·​pli·​ca·​tion ˌkäm-plə-ˈkā-shən 

: a secondary disease or condition that develops in the course of a primary disease or condition and arises either as a result of it or from independent causes