supplement
To add something extra to enhance or complete something.
Examples
In a meeting
“We'll supplement the in-house team with freelancers for the launch.”
Over coffee
“I supplement my diet with vitamins since I don't eat enough vegetables.”
Why this word
add
Supplement specifically means adding something to complete or enhance what's already there, while add doesn't imply the original was incomplete
complement
Supplement means adding extra amounts to fill a deficiency, while complement means completing by providing a contrasting element
increase
Supplement indicates adding to something insufficient or incomplete, while increase just means making larger without implying inadequacy
Usage tip
Implies adding to something that's already there, not replacing it. The addition fills a gap or provides a boost.
Etymology
Latin supplementum — sub (under, up to) + plere (to fill), literally 'filling up from below'
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Related words
augment
To make something greater by adding to it; to supplement.
bolster
Strengthen or support
endorse
To publicly declare support or approval for something
proponent
A person who advocates for or supports something
underpin
To support, justify, or form the basis for something
reinforce
To strengthen or support something that already exists