complex

[[t]kɒ̱mpleks[/t]]

♦♦

complexes

(The adjective is pronounced [[t]kəmple̱ks[/t]]u> in American English.)

1) ADJ-GRADED Something that is complex has many different parts, and is therefore often difficult to understand.

...in-depth coverage of today's complex issues.

...a complex system of voting.

...her complex personality.

...complex machines.

Syn:

complicated

Ant:

simple

2) ADJ: ADJ n In grammar, a complex sentence contains one or more subordinate clauses as well as a main clause. Compare compound.

3) N-COUNT: usu with supp A complex is a group of buildings designed for a particular purpose, or one large building divided into several smaller areas.

...plans for constructing a new stadium and leisure complex.

...a complex of offices and flats.

4) N-COUNT: with supp A complex of things is a group or system of things that are connected with each other in a complicated way.

...the complex of clans which occupied the land.

...the military-industrial complex.

Syn:

network

5) N-COUNT If someone has a complex about something, they have a mental or emotional problem relating to it, often because of an unpleasant experience in the past.

→ See also , inferiority complex

I have never had a complex about my height.

...a deranged attacker, driven by a persecution complex.