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complete

complete / complete / complete / complete

/kəmˈpliːt/

AdjectiveTransitive Verb
past: completedpp: completeding: completingcomp: more completesup: most complete

This term carries a strong sense of finality and wholeness. When used as an adjective to describe a set or a collection, it suggests that nothing is missing and the intended state of perfection has been reached. When used to describe an emotion or a state, such as a complete shock, it functions as an intensifier meaning absolute or utter, often adding a layer of emphasis to the severity or totality of the experience. As a verb, the word shifts from a state of being to an action of fulfillment. It can describe the mundane act of finishing a task or the more poetic act of providing a missing element to create harmony between two entities. There are no irregular pluralization or countability constraints associated with this word, as it functions as a standard adjective and transitive verb.

Meanings

Adjectivecomplete

Having all the necessary or appropriate parts.

"The set is now complete with the final piece."

Adjectivecomplete

Total or absolute in degree or quality.

"The surprise was a complete shock to everyone."

Transitive Verbcomplete
[~ something]

To finish making or doing something.

"She needs to complete the application form by Friday."

Transitive Verbcomplete
[~ someone]

To provide a missing quality that makes someone or something perfect.

"His calm nature completes her energetic personality."

Examples

The collection is now complete after the final acquisition.

The sudden news was a complete surprise to the staff.

You must complete the registration process before the deadline.

Her patience completes his impulsive nature perfectly.

Collocations & Compounds

complete set

Noun collocation: a full collection of items

The collector finally acquired a complete set of first edition stamps.

complete silence

Noun collocation: a state of total quiet

A complete silence fell over the crowd as the performer took the stage.

complete failure

Noun collocation: an absolute or total lack of success

The project was a complete failure due to poor planning.

complete the task

Verb collocation: to finish a specific piece of work

It took the team three weeks to complete the task.

complete the process

Verb collocation: to bring a series of actions to an end

You must sign the document to complete the process.

Idioms & Sayings

a complete disaster

a situation that is totally unsuccessful or chaotic

The outdoor wedding turned into a complete disaster when the storm hit.

complete a circuit

to close an electrical loop allowing current to flow

The switch is designed to complete the circuit and turn on the light.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Report an Error