complement complement /ˈkɑːmpləmənt/

noun

1. () A word or phrase used to complete a grammatical construction  ( complement )
   a word or phrase used to complete a grammatical construction
     The red wine complemented the flavors of the steak perfectly.
   The red wine complemented the flavors of the steak perfectly.
   
2. () Something added to complete, embellish or make perfect  ( accompaniment , complement )
   something added to complete, embellish or make perfect
    A fine wine is a perfect complement to the dinner
   a fine wine is a perfect complement to the dinner
    Wild rice was served as an accompaniment to the main dish
   wild rice was served as an accompaniment to the main dish
   
3. () Number needed to make up a whole force  ( complement , full complement )
   number needed to make up a whole force
    A full complement of workers
   a full complement of workers
   
4. () A complete number or quantity  ( complement )
   a complete number or quantity
    A full complement
   a full complement
   
5. Either of two parts that mutually complete each other  ( complement )
   either of two parts that mutually complete each other
   
6. One of a series of enzymes in the blood serum that are part of the immune response  ( complement )
   one of a series of enzymes in the blood serum that are part of the immune response
   

verb

1. () Make complete or perfect; supply what is wanting or form the complement to  ( complement )
   make complete or perfect; supply what is wanting or form the complement to
    I need some pepper to complement the sweet touch in the soup
   I need some pepper to complement the sweet touch in the soup