Etymology of the English word complexion
the English word
complexionderived from the Old French word
complexionderived from the Latin word
complexio (encircling; combination, association)
derived from the Late Latin word
complexus (sexual intercourse; surrounding, encompassing, encircling)
derived from the Latin word
complexumderived from the Latin word
complecti (embrace, hug; welcome; lay hold of, grip; seize)
derived from the Latin word
plectere (buffet, beat; punish; plait, twine)
derived from the Proto-Indo-European root
*plek-Date
The earliest known usage of complexion in English dates from the 14th century.
Derivations in English
complexionless,
complexioned,
complectedCognates
Danish
kompleksion, French
complexion, German
Komplexion, Italian
complessione, Portuguese
compleicão, Spanish
complexionUsage
Word found in Modern English
