complexion

noun

kəm-ˈplek-shən How to pronounce complexion (audio)
Definition of complexionnext
1
as in color
the hue or appearance of the skin and especially of the face a sunscreen for people with very light complexions

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in self
the set of qualities that makes a person, a group of people, or a thing different from others changing the complexion of the department to reflect changing needs

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 complexion Along with a lineup of full-coverage powder foundations, the brand also offers loose blushes and bronzers to add warmth and dimension to your complexion. — Mariana Best, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2026 Witnesses described the suspect as a South Asian male standing 5 feet 7 inches tall with a dark complexion, short hair on the sides, and long curly hair on the top. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 12 Oct. 2026 Meanwhile, women used toxic lead makeup to achieve what was viewed as a beautiful pale complexion. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Oct. 2026 Deciding on the complexion of the brand’s spirits involved extensive experimentation. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for complexion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for complexion
  1. color
  2. self
  3. coloring
  4. tone
  5. personality
  6. nature
  7. colors
  8. character
Noun
  • Drawing upon classic English country house motifs, her own family memories, and the blazing colors of New England fall, the star designer has conjured a series of instant heirlooms.
    — Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Friends, family and community members dressed in light blue — Noel’s favorite color — gathered Saturday in Everman for a public vigil honoring 6-year-old Noel Rodriguez-Alvarez.
    — Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of color
Noun
  • The deal, which includes spare parts and international orders, is subject to congressional approval and could generate $79 billion in economic activity, with Lockheed Martin self-funding at least $7 billion in program initiatives.
    — Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Oct. 2026
  • His singing as Andy Boay is more distinct, his lyrics more diaristic and even self-referential.
    — Ryan Meehan, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026
Definition of self
Noun
  • Add 1 to 2 drops of red food coloring to the bowl of candy melts and mix well to incorporate.
    — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 23 Oct. 2026
  • With that in mind, Haug suggests requesting balayage, a freehand hair-coloring technique that lightens strands without using foils, and looks a little more natural compared to traditional highlights.
    — Jacqueline Kilikita, Vogue, 22 Oct. 2026
Definition of coloring
Noun
  • After the last percussive hit, a drum stretched and warped to sound a bit like a robot powering down, comes an ensemble of bell tones, rising like mist at dawn.
    — Andy Cush, Pitchfork, 31 Oct. 2026
  • The tone of these sorts of interactions has changed over the course of this season, as different people from different worlds have collided and been able to get past the impossibility of it.
    — Scott Tobias, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2026
Definition of tone
Noun
  • Behind the scenes, Chicago historian and media personality Studs Terkel played an integral role, acting as a guide for Mitchell.
    — Nina Metz, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026
  • Behind the scenes, Muse uses a collection of digital notes and instructions to guide its personality, actions and memory, all of which can be reviewed, edited and deleted.
    — Marty Swant, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of personality
Noun
  • For many, a walk in the woods or a visit to a scenic stop is a way to seek out not just solitude but also to connect with nature.
    — Gagandeep Singh, Sacbee.com, 24 Oct. 2026
  • At Holmen, encounters with nature became part of the daily rhythm.
    — Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Oct. 2026
Definition of nature
Noun
  • Look for vibrant colors, feel whether an item is firm or soft and check that herbs smell fragrant.
    — Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Although denim can be produced in many colors, it is most associated with indigo blue.
    — Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of colors
Noun
  • It was approved by voters into the county charter in 2004 in an effort to preserve the area’s rural character and prevent high-density sprawl from stretching toward the Brevard County line.
    — Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Oct. 2026
  • These private, elevated spaces so intrinsic to the character of the property will remain closed to the public while management seeks a practical solution.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026
Definition of character

Browse Nearby Words

complexing
complexion
complexions
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Cite this Entry

“Complexion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/complexion. Accessed 3 Nov. 2026.

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