complementary

UK: /ˌkɒmplɪˈmɛnt(ə)ri/ | US: /ˌkɑːmplɪˈmɛnt(ə)ri/

Definition
  1. adj. combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other

  2. adj. (of angles) adding up to 90 degrees

  3. adj. (biology) relating to the pairing of nucleotide bases in DNA/RNA

Structure
com <together>ple <fill>mentary <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin complēre ("to fill up"), via complementum ("something that completes"). The morpheme com- ("together") emphasizes unity, while ple- ("fill") conveys completion. The suffix -mentary adapts it into an adjective. Originally used in mathematics (angles) and later extended to biology (base pairs) and general usage (mutually enhancing qualities).

Examples
  1. The artist chose complementary colors to create visual harmony.

  2. In a right triangle, the two non-right angles are complementary.

  3. DNA strands bind through complementary base pairing.

  4. Their skills are complementary, making them an effective team.

  5. The sauce’s sweetness is complementary to the dish’s spiciness.