complication
noun
com·pli·ca·tion
ˌkäm-plə-ˈkā-shən 
1
a
: complexity, intricacy
especially
: a situation or a detail of character complicating the main thread of a plot
b
: a making difficult, involved, or intricate
c
: a complex or intricate feature or element
d
: a difficult factor or issue often appearing unexpectedly and changing existing plans, methods, or attitudes
2
: a secondary disease or condition developing in the course of a primary disease or condition
Synonyms
Examples of complication in a Sentence
The negotiations stalled when complications arose.
Pneumonia is a common complication of AIDS.
She experienced complications during her pregnancy.
The patient died of complications from surgery.
Recent Examples on the Web
Named after champion sportsman and Rolex ambassador Jean-Claude Killy, the ‘Killy’ is the only Rolex Oyster model to feature a full calendar and chronograph complication.
—
Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 30 Apr. 2024
In 1832, his remaining brother, Thomas, died from complications of alcoholism at the age of 59.
—TIME, 30 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for complication 
Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 30 Apr. 2024
In 1832, his remaining brother, Thomas, died from complications of alcoholism at the age of 59.
—TIME, 30 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for complication
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'complication.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near complication
Cite this Entry
“Complication.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complication. Accessed 4 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
complication
noun
com·pli·ca·tion
ˌkäm-plə-ˈkā-shən
1
a
: an act or instance of complicating something
b
: a situation or detail of character that complicates a plot
c
: a complex feature or element
d
: something that makes a situation more complicated or difficult
we were unable to agree when complications arose
2
: a disease or bodily condition existing at the same time as and affecting the course or severity of another disease or condition
Medical Definition
complication
noun
com·pli·ca·tion
ˌkäm-plə-ˈkā-shən
: a secondary disease or condition that develops in the course of a primary disease or condition and arises either as a result of it or from independent causes
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