Complementary

/ˌkɒmplɪˈmɛntəri/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other or another.

The blue curtains were a perfect complementary color to the yellow walls.

Serving to complete something.

The new skills she learned were complementary to her existing expertise.

Enhancing or contributing to something that is already present.

The chef combined complementary flavors to create a delicious dish.

From Latin complementarius, from complementum, meaning 'that which completes.'

complementary colors

colors that, when combined, cancel each other out, producing a grayscale color.

complementary goods

products that are often used together.

complementary angles

two angles that add up to 90 degrees.

complement

something that completes or enhances.

supplement

something added to complete or enhance.

enhance

to improve the quality or value of something.

a term often used in design or art.

Those shoes add a complementary vibe to the outfit.

referring to ideas or traits that work well together in a social context.

Their personalities are complementary; they balance each other.