Come

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/kʌm/

Definitions

1. To move toward or approach a particular place or person.
2. To arrive at a particular state or condition.
3. To be a part of or occur in a particular situation or event.
4. To reach or attain a specified position or situation.
5. To appear, occur, or happen as a result of a specific action or condition.

Usage Examples

• She will come to the meeting later this afternoon.
• He is coming back from his vacation tomorrow.
• Are you going to come to the party tonight?
• The flowers come in many different colors.
• What will come next in the series of events?

Etymology

The word "come" originates from the Old English word "cuman," which meant "to arrive, to approach." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*kuman" and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "quemen" and Dutch "komen." Over time, its meaning has expanded to include various senses of arrival, appearance, and occurrence.

Synonyms

• Arrive
• Reach
• Approach
• Appear
• Show up

Antonyms

• Leave
• Depart
• Exit
• Go

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /kʌm/
• American English: /kʌm/
• Australian English: /kʌm/

Historical Usage

The word "come" has been used in English since the 9th century, with its meaning evolving over time. It initially meant "to approach" or "to arrive," and over centuries it has been used in a variety of contexts to describe arrival, appearance, and occurrence. Its role in phrases such as "come to terms" or "come of age" reflects the development of figurative uses in modern English.

Cultural Nuances

The expression "come together" often signifies unity or collaboration, while "come apart" refers to disintegration or separation. In different cultures, the act of "coming" might symbolize more than physical arrival; it can imply emotional or spiritual arrival, as in "coming home" or "coming of age." The term is versatile across various languages and contexts, often with a figurative meaning beyond the literal sense of movement.

More Information

The verb "come" is one of the most commonly used and versatile verbs in the English language, with applications in many different idiomatic expressions. It can be used to describe physical movement or action, emotional or mental states, and even abstract concepts like changes in condition or situation. Whether in everyday language, literature, or formal speech, "come" remains a key term in English.