Langimage
English

complication

|com/pli/ca/tion|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌkɑːmplɪˈkeɪʃən/

🇬🇧

/ˌkɒmplɪˈkeɪʃən/

complexity or difficulty

Etymology
Etymology Information

'complication' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'complicatio,' where 'com-' meant 'together' and 'plicare' meant 'to fold.'

Historical Evolution

'complicatio' transformed into the Old French word 'complicacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'complication' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a folding together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a complex situation or condition.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a circumstance that complicates something; a difficulty.

The project faced several complications due to unforeseen circumstances.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a secondary disease or condition aggravating an already existing one.

The patient developed complications after the surgery.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41