Complete

Part of Speech

Adjective, Verb

Pronunciation

British English: /kəmˈpliːt/

American English: /kəmˈpliːt/

Definitions

As an Adjective:

• Having all necessary parts; whole.
• Finished or concluded; not lacking anything.
• Absolute; total.

As a Verb:

• To bring to an end; finish.
• To make whole or perfect.

Usage Examples

• The project is now complete.
• He made a complete recovery.
• She will complete her degree next year.

Etymology

From Latin completus, past participle of complere ("to fill up, finish"), from com- ("together") + plere ("to fill").

Synonyms

• Whole
• Entire
• Finished
• Absolute

Antonyms

• Incomplete
• Partial
• Unfinished

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In some British dialects, the final "t" may be softened.
• In American English, the second syllable often has a clearer emphasis.

Historical Usage

The word "complete" has been used in English since the 14th century to mean "having all parts" and later developed its verb form meaning "to finish" in the 15th century.

Cultural Nuances

"Complete" can be used to emphasize a sense of totality, such as in "complete disaster" or "complete success," which often carry strong connotations.

More Information

In philosophy and logic, "completeness" refers to the state where nothing more needs to be added. In sports, a "complete player" is one who excels in all aspects of the game.