complements 1 of 2

Definition of complementsnext
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
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 Canori, in his statement, added that his team has taken tremendous care working with Newport Beach and world-class architects to ensure the project complements and aligns with the vision and plan for Newport Center. Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 14 Mar. 2026
Verb
The gorgeous Bordeaux color on my bed complements the rest of my decor. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 29 May 2026 The venue aims to create a full-service cocktail experience that complements the lively energy within the food hall. Amari Riley, Charlotte Observer, 27 May 2026 Many believe that this quality is a feature, not a bug, and complements the fabric’s inherent sense of ease. Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 25 May 2026 Ahead, every standout pair that not only complements a black dress but gives it a whole new energy. Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 25 May 2026 Mainoo’s profile complements Casemiro’s because of the different skill sets that the pair bring to the pitch. Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 21 May 2026 Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, there's likely a heuchera that complements your hydrangea's blooms perfectly. Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 21 May 2026 The design complements the old Western town style of buildings previously approved in Ramona, Ardigo said. Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026 Quilting competes with my writing—there are, after all, only so many hours in a day—but like reading it also complements it. Literary Hub, 19 May 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complements
Noun
  • Eating four to six prunes a day is a low-effort habit with more clinical evidence behind it than most supplements on the market.
    Allison Palmer Updated June 3, Sacbee.com, 3 June 2026
  • For The Union-Tribune Release the kratom Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, whose leaves are used as the active ingredient in a host of compounds and supplements to self-treat conditions such as pain, coughing, diarrhea, anxiety and depression.
    Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 June 2026
Noun
  • Group conversation can be a lot for many people, and everyone’s social batteries have different capacities.
    R. Eric Thomas, Mercury News, 30 May 2026
  • Those capacities are enormously useful.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 30 May 2026
Verb
  • This volume adorns a huge number of bedside tables for a reason.
    Anna Holmes, The Atlantic, 27 May 2026
  • Entry comes with a tug on the giant calligraphy brush that adorns the doorway.
    Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026
Noun
  • 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 Daily Dividend Prediction market platform Kalshi saw trading volumes surge more than 2500% from a year ago to a record $17 billion in May.
    Alex Harring, CNBC, 2 June 2026
  • Stevenson can be seen getting up and smiling about the incident, but the video speaks volumes.
    Joe Kinsey OutKick, FOXNews.com, 1 June 2026
Verb
  • 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
  • My cabin had a neutral-toned color scheme with decor in varying shades of beige and a dark navy carpet, which was a nice contrast to the vibrant art that decorates most of the ship.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Advertisement If a good finale ties up a show’s plot and answers crucial questions, then a great one completes character arcs and deepens themes developed across multiple seasons, revealing the intricacy of narrative architecture too subtle to perceive from one week to the next.
    Judy Berman, Time, 29 May 2026
  • Even at the hotels, when Disney completes a refurbishment of guest rooms and common areas, ratings tend to increase by at least five points at resorts like Pop Century and Port Orleans - Riverside.
    Megan duBois, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026
Verb
  • And here is a helpful tip — a teaspoon of honey enhances the flavors splendidly.
    Ed Silverman, STAT, 2 June 2026
  • Reducing onboard noise, therefore, improves the effectiveness of the vessel’s surveillance equipment and enhances operating conditions for the crew.
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 1 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Complements.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complements. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

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