Comfortable: meaning, definitions and examples

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comfortable

 

[ˈkʌmfərtəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Providing physical ease and relaxation; free from stress or fear.

Synonyms

comfy, cozy, pleasant, relaxing, snug.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
comfortable

Used to describe a general state of physical or mental ease and absence of discomfort.

  • This chair is really comfortable.
  • I feel comfortable speaking in public.
cozy

Ideal for describing a warm, inviting, and often smaller space that makes one feel safe and content.

  • The cabin was cozy with its fireplace on.
  • She decorated her bedroom to be as cozy as possible.
pleasant

Utilized to describe experiences, environments, or interactions that are agreeable and enjoyable.

  • We had a pleasant evening walk.
  • Her company was quite pleasant.
relaxing

Best used for activities or environments that help alleviate stress and promote relaxation.

  • The spa offers a very relaxing atmosphere.
  • Reading a book by the beach is so relaxing.
comfy

A more casual and informal term typically used to describe something that provides comfort, especially in a home setting.

  • I love these comfy pajamas.
  • This couch is so comfy.
snug

Used to describe a tight but comfortably fitting space, often implying warmth and security.

  • These gloves are snug but keep my hands warm.
  • The baby looked snug in his blanket.

Examples of usage

  • It's important to have a comfortable bed to sleep in.
  • She sat back in her comfortable chair and relaxed.
  • I feel comfortable in his presence.
  • We want our guests to feel comfortable and welcome in our home.
  • I find the sofa very comfortable to sit on.
Context #2 | Adjective

clothing

Of a garment, roomy and easy to wear.

Synonyms

commodious, easy, loose-fitting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
comfortable

Used to describe a state of physical ease and relaxation, often related to clothing, seating, or an environment.

  • She felt comfortable lying on the soft couch
  • These shoes are so comfortable for walking long distances
easy

Describes something that is not difficult to do or understand, or a state of being relaxed and free from worries.

  • The instructions were easy to follow
  • He feels easy when he's around his friends
loose-fitting

Refers to clothing that is not tight and provides a lot of room, often used to describe comfortable or relaxed attire.

  • She prefers wearing loose-fitting clothes during the summer
  • These loose-fitting jeans are very comfortable
commodious

Used to describe a space that is roomy, spacious, and well-proportioned. Sometimes used in more formal contexts.

  • The hotel room was commodious and had plenty of space for all our luggage
  • They bought a commodious house in the suburbs

Examples of usage

  • She wore a comfortable pair of jeans for the long flight.
  • I prefer to wear comfortable shoes when I'm walking long distances.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'comfortare', meaning 'to strengthen greatly.'
  • It entered English in the late 15th century, primarily in relation to physical ease and emotional support.
  • The prefix 'com-' means 'with' or 'together,' implying that comfort comes from being close to something soothing.

Psychology

  • Feeling comfortable can reduce anxiety and increase overall happiness.
  • Comfort has been shown to relate to safety; people seek environments that provide this reassurance.
  • Childhood experiences of comfort can impact adult mental health, signaling the importance of supportive spaces.

Pop Culture

  • In fashion, comfort has become a major trend, with many brands focusing on loungewear.
  • Songs and movies often portray comfort as a key emotional theme, like finding solace in loved ones.
  • The phrase 'comfort food' refers to meals that provide nostalgia and emotional satisfaction, often linked to family traditions.

Science

  • Studies show that physical comfort can enhance cognitive performance and focus.
  • The brain releases oxytocin when we feel comfortable, promoting feelings of trust and connection.
  • Temperature and texture play significant roles in how we perceive comfort physically.

Literature

  • In many novels, characters find comfort in solitude or companionship during challenging times.
  • Poetry often uses descriptions of nature to evoke feelings of comfort and peace.
  • Classic literature frequently explores the theme of searching for a safe place as a metaphor for comfort.

Translations

Translations of the word "comfortable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 confortável

🇮🇳 आरामदायक

🇩🇪 bequem

🇮🇩 nyaman

🇺🇦 зручний

🇵🇱 wygodny

🇯🇵 快適な (かいてきな)

🇫🇷 confortable

🇪🇸 cómodo

🇹🇷 rahat

🇰🇷 편안한 (pyeonanhan)

🇸🇦 مريح (murīḥ)

🇨🇿 pohodlný

🇸🇰 pohodlný

🇨🇳 舒适的 (shūshì de)

🇸🇮 udoben

🇮🇸 þægilegur

🇰🇿 жайлы

🇬🇪 კომფორტული (komp’ort’uli)

🇦🇿 rahat

🇲🇽 cómodo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,450, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.