complements 1 of 2

plural of complement
1
as in supplements
something that serves to complete or make up for a deficiency in something else with his practicality and her refreshing enthusiasm, they are perfect complements to each other

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2
as in capacities
the largest number or amount that something can hold a full complement of sailors on the ship

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complements

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of complement
as in adorns
to serve as a completing element to this silk handkerchief will complement your suit very nicely and give it a bit of dash

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of complements
Noun
Cinnamon Cinnamon's warm, spicy flavor complements drinks like apple cider and baked goods like cookies, pumpkin pie, and sweet bread. Jillian Kubala, Health, 9 June 2026 Other interventions, like non-surgical or surgical skin tightening procedures, can be helpful complements, too. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 28 Apr. 2026 Best of all, these eclectic complements come in all shapes and sizes—from modern designs by contemporary artists and local artisans to collectible porcelains resold by vintage dealers. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 20 Apr. 2026 Make sure the music stays in the background and complements, not competes with, the conversation. Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 20 Apr. 2026 The programming lineup complements previously announced selections, including narrative and documentary feature films, exclusive screenings and world premieres, sneak peaks and red-carpet premieres. Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 16 Apr. 2026 The oversized shape comes in a variation of colors, but the classic black complements Kravitz's edgy aesthetic while offering plenty of room for workday essentials. Amanda Le, InStyle, 10 Apr. 2026 The soft custard filling complements the firm peach slices for a delightful texture and the perfect make-ahead dessert. Abby Fribush, Southern Living, 10 Apr. 2026 Hosta’s spreading habit complements the elegant, upright shape of hydrangeas. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
Senesi, whose instinct is to win the ball high, complements his game more naturally, as does Kevin Danso, who ended the season excellently and should not be overlooked. Elias Burke, New York Times, 20 June 2026 The factory complements Joby’s existing propeller manufacturing facility at the Dayton International Airport, which has been open since October 2025. Randy Tucker, USA Today, 15 June 2026 The designer also appreciates how wonderfully the shade complements a range of design styles, having incorporated it into both modern and vintage-inspired homes. Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 15 June 2026 That outlook complements Graham’s perspective on how the Bulls should approach the rebuild. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026 Marinated tofu pockets are stuffed with rich crab meat and fried twice to achieve a thin and crispy shell that perfectly complements the crab meat inside. Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026 Bitcoin’s role in investor portfolios Bitcoin is frequently promoted as an investment that complements more traditional assets in a portfolio. Mike Winters, CNBC, 12 June 2026 Inspired by European summer travel and the idea of clothing for the idyllic getaway, Alo’s new collection complements the winter line for a capsule of vacation wardrobe dressing. Kanika Talwar, Footwear News, 10 June 2026 Also in the walk-in cooler, fried rice that complements many dishes sat uncovered. David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 8 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complements
Noun
  • Acting on a shaky result carries real downsides too, from needless restrictive diets to unnecessary supplements.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026
  • At-home microbiome tests and fiber supplements have people looking at their gut more closely than ever.
    Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Poor sleep also undermines decision making and emotional regulation, two capacities that many successful professionals depend upon every day for work and which are also essential for wellness.
    Ezekiel J. Emanuel, Fortune, 21 June 2026
  • Alzubi has worked in the district in various capacities, including chemistry teacher and assistant principal, since 2013.
    Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 June 2026
Verb
  • Co-Space has become known for the visual art that adorns its walls, and Byrd created a blue-and-white painting at the center.
    Michael Butler, Miami Herald, 18 June 2026
  • Other clocks are affixed to a structure, like the clocks at Union Station, or the clock that adorns the archway into Little Village.
    Nina Metz, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026
Noun
  • Emerging research suggests those experiences may have measurable biological correlates.
    Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 17 June 2026
  • The state office is mandated to report to the legislature on missing persons and homicide cases, along with the correlates of domestic violence and human trafficking.
    Mara H. Gottfried, Twin Cities, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The taxing nature of executive roles, coupled with constant travel, high decision volumes, and immense stress, necessitates robust physical capacity.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 24 June 2026
  • The best hair transplant clinics in Turkey run high volumes, which means their teams handle follicular unit work every day and maintain strict safety standards for screening and aftercare.
    Malana VanTyler, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • The sandals are embellished with the signature Ribbon buckle, which decorates a dainty strap that wraps delicately around the ankle.
    Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 16 June 2026
  • Among the first illustrators Vicki represented was Robert Grossman, who eventually became Annie’s dad — his art still decorates the walls.
    Anne Kadet, Curbed, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • Flame Plasma Pyrolysis completes the conversion in less than two minutes.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 19 June 2026
  • The discovery completes the creature's spread across all five Great Lakes.
    Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 17 June 2026
Verb
  • Pairing fish with heart-healthy sides—such as leafy greens, nuts, olive oil, or fiber-rich grains—enhances its protective effects.
    Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 23 June 2026
  • While the technology assists in officiating and enhances live broadcasts, those sensors can also add uneven mass distribution that impedes a ball's movement in the air.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 22 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Complements.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complements. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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