complementary Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun either one of two chromatic colors that when mixed together give white (in the case of lights) or grey (in the case of pigments)
    complementary color.
    • yellow and blue are complementaries
  2. adjective satellite of words or propositions so related that each is the negation of the other
    • `male' and `female' are complementary terms
  3. adjective satellite acting as or providing a complement (something that completes the whole)
    completing; complemental.

WordNet

Com`ple*men"ta"ry adjective
Definitions
  1. Serving to fill out or to complete; as, complementary numbers.
Com`ple*men"ta*ry noun
Etymology
See Complimentary.
Definitions
  1. One skilled in compliments. Obs. B. Jonson.

Webster 1913