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

• complexity
• complicacy
• convolution
• difficulty
• intricacy

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

However, a myriad of complications has kept him out of action. —Brian Mazique, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

This urine build-up can cause an infection or other complications, Golan said, adding that removing the prostate can prevent these blockages from happening. —David Faris, Newsweek, 29 Dec. 2024

Consuming too much sugar from any source can significantly affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetic complications, such as neuropathy and kidney issues.14 Like any sweetener, jaggery should be enjoyed in small amounts and as a minimal portion of your calorie intake. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 29 Dec. 2024

At first, authorities wondered if Melissa, an EMT, may have died from natural causes due to pregnancy complications, or of smoke inhalation after experiencing a medical emergency. —Christine Pelisek, People.com, 28 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English complicacioun, borrowed from Late Latin complicātiōn-, complicātiō "folding together, conglomeration," from Latin complicāre "to fold together, fold up" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at complicate entry 2

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids 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