Supplement

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈsÊŒplÉ™mÉ™nt /

Origin

From Latin supplementum ("that which is added to supply a shortage"), from supplere ("to provide something").

Full definition of supplement

Noun

1. Something added, especially to make up for a deficiency.
• 2013-03, David S. Senchina, Athletics and Herbal Supplements, Athletes' use of herbal supplements has skyrocketed in the past two decades. At the top of the list of popular herbs are echinacea and ginseng, whereas garlic, St. John's wort, soybean, ephedra and others are also surging in popularity or have been historically prevalent.
2. An extension to a document or publication that adds information, corrects errors or brings up to date.
3. An additional section of a newspaper devoted to a specific subject.
• 1907, w, The Younger Set Chapter 4, “Mid-Lent, and the Enemy grins,” remarked Selwyn as he started for church with Nina and the children. Austin, knee-deep in a dozen Sunday supplements, refused to stir ; …
4. (geometry) An angle that, when added to a given angle, makes 180°; a supplementary angle.
5. (nutrition, bodybuilding): A vitamin, herbal extract, or chemical compound included with a diet to enhance muscular development.

Verb

1. To provide or make a supplement to something.

Synonyms

• eke out