complementation

noun

com·​ple·​men·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-plə-(ˌ)men-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce complementation (audio)
-mən-
1
: the operation of determining the complement of a mathematical set
2
: production of normal phenotype in an individual heterozygous for two closely related mutations with one on each homologous chromosome and at a slightly different position

Examples of complementation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Though the papers overlap to a great extent, there are subtle differences which result in complementation. — Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 9 July 2011 Interspecies blastocyst complementation is a method that could help create human organs in animals. — Study Summaries, Scientific American, 17 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

complement entry 2 + -ation

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of complementation was in 1942

Rhymes for complementation

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Browse Nearby Words

complementary wavelength
complementation
complement fixation
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Cite this Entry

“Complementation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complementation. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

complementation

noun
com·​ple·​men·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-plə-(ˌ)men-ˈtā-shən, -mən- How to pronounce complementation (audio)
1
: the formation of neutral colors from complementary colors
2
: production of normal phenotype in an individual heterozygous for two closely related mutations with one on each homologous chromosome and at a slightly different position
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