What is the meaning of GAMETES & COMPLIMENT in my Biology notes?

I read this explanation about Cell Division on biologyonline.com. It states: "Meiosis is where four gamete cells are created from the parent cell, with half the chromosomes compliment". I understand mitosis but find it difficult to understand MEIOSIS just because i dont understand what they mean by "with half the chromosomes compliment" and also the meaning of "gametes". Please help! Avoid confusing me with long text book explanations.