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Comely: meaning, definitions and examples

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comely

 

[ ˈkʌmli ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

physical appearance

The term 'comely' describes someone who is attractive or pleasing in appearance. It is often used to convey a sense of beauty that is wholesome and respectable. The word suggests more than just physical beauty; it can also imply a certain charm and grace. Historically, comeliness was regarded not only as an external trait but one that reflects inner virtues as well.

Synonyms

alluring, attractive, beautiful, charming, lovely

Examples of usage

  • She had a comely visage that attracted attention.
  • The comely young woman walked confidently into the room.
  • His comely demeanor made him popular among his peers.

Translations

Translations of the word "comely" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atrativo

🇮🇳 सुंदर

🇩🇪 ansprechend

🇮🇩 menarik

🇺🇦 привабливий

🇵🇱 uroczy

🇯🇵 魅力的な

🇫🇷 charmant

🇪🇸 atractivo

🇹🇷 çekici

🇰🇷 매력적인

🇸🇦 جميل

🇨🇿 pohledný

🇸🇰 pohľadný

🇨🇳 美丽的

🇸🇮 privlačen

🇮🇸 fagur

🇰🇿 тартымды

🇬🇪 მხიარული

🇦🇿 cazibədar

🇲🇽 atractivo

Etymology

The word 'comely' finds its origins in Old English 'cūmlīc', which evolved from 'cūm', meaning 'pleasant'. This reflects the cultural emphasis on not only external beauty but also on characteristics that contribute to a person's overall appeal. By the 14th century, it was well established in Middle English as 'comely', often used in literature and poetry to describe characters who embody both physical beauty and moral integrity. The usage of 'comely' has persisted through the ages, although it is less commonly employed in contemporary language, often replaced by simpler terms like 'pretty' or 'lovely'. Nonetheless, it retains a formal or poetic tone and is occasionally used in literary contexts to evoke a sense of timeless beauty.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,495, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.