complexion
UK: kəmˈplekʃ(ə)n | US: kəmˈplekʃ(ə)n
n. the natural color, texture, and appearance of a person's skin, especially of the face
n. the general aspect or character of something
complexion = com<together> + plex<weave> + ion<noun suffix>
- com: from Latin com- (together)
- plex: from Latin plexus (woven, intertwined), derived from plectere (to weave)
- ion: noun-forming suffix indicating state or condition
Etymology Origin:
The word complexion originally referred to the balance of bodily humors (blood, phlegm, bile, black bile) in medieval medicine, believed to determine one's health and skin appearance. The Latin roots com- (together) and plex (weave) reflect the idea of intertwined factors influencing outward appearance. Over time, it narrowed to focus on skin tone and later metaphorically extended to describe the "character" of things.
Her fair complexion burned easily in the sun.
The political complexion of the region shifted after the election.
Stress can affect your complexion, causing breakouts.
The novel’s dark complexion reflects its tragic themes.
He admired her radiant complexion.