Supplement

/ˈsʌpləˌmɛnt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
Something that is added to something else in order to complete it.
He takes a vitamin supplement to ensure he gets enough nutrients.
An addition to a book or other text, typically providing additional information.
The publisher released a supplement to the original textbook with updated data.
An extra payment made to enhance an existing salary or level of support.
The government offered a supplement to the pension to help retirees.
verb
To add to something in order to enhance or improve it.
We need to supplement our income with a part-time job.
To provide something additional to what is already present.
She decided to supplement her meal with a side salad.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin supplementum, from supplere 'fill up, complete.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

nutritional supplement
A product taken orally that contains dietary ingredients.
supplementary material
Additional information provided to support the main content.
supplement one's income
To earn extra money on top of one's primary source of income.

Related Words

complement
Something that completes or goes well with something.
addendum
An item added to the end of a document.
enhancement
An improvement or augmentation in quality.

Slang Meanings

Supps
I'm going to grab some supps from the store.
Meal enhancers
I like to buy meal enhancers for my workout routine.