Two colors that sit directly opposite each other on the color wheel, like blue and orange. Placed together they make each other look brighter and create strong, eye-catching contrast.
Synonyms
- opposite colors
Related terms
- color wheel
- analogous colors
- split-complementary
- color harmony
In plain words
- colors that pop against each other
- opposite colors on the wheel
Usage example
The poster paired complementary colors — a deep teal background with a warm orange headline.
Don't confuse with…
- analogous colorsComplementary colors sit opposite each other for high contrast; analogous colors sit next to each other for a calmer, blended look.
Categories
- Color