Comely

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈkʌmɪli/

Definitions

• Attractive or pleasing in appearance, especially in a way that is graceful and elegant.
• Decent or morally acceptable, especially in the context of behavior or manners.

Usage Examples

• She had a comely figure, admired by everyone in the room.
• The comely decor of the restaurant made it a popular place for dinner parties.

Etymology

The word "comely" comes from Middle English "comely," derived from Old English "cōmlīc," meaning "beautiful" or "good-looking." The root word "cōm" is related to the modern English "comely," denoting someone or something that is well-formed or attractive. Its usage has evolved to include moral or decent behavior, alongside physical beauty.

Synonyms

• Attractive
• Beautiful
• Graceful
• Pretty
• Elegant
• Appealing

Antonyms

• Unattractive
• Ugly
• Unappealing
• Unseemly

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "comely" can vary slightly based on accent and regional speech patterns. For example, in American English, the stress is typically on the first syllable (/ˈkʌmɪli/), while in British English, there may be slight variations in vowel sounds.

Historical Usage

Historically, "comely" was used primarily to describe physical beauty, often in reference to women. Over time, the word expanded to include moral and virtuous qualities. In early literature, it was often used to characterize the ideal or virtuous appearance, suggesting purity and elegance. The word has evolved to encompass a broader sense of attractiveness, both in appearance and character.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the concept of "comeliness" may vary. In Western contexts, it often refers to physical beauty, while in other cultures, it can extend to include qualities such as gracefulness and moral integrity. For example, in some traditional Indian contexts, a comely appearance is not just about physical attractiveness but also about how well one adheres to social norms and values.

More Information

The word "comely" is often used in literature, particularly in classical works, to describe a person who is attractive in a natural and graceful way. It is considered a somewhat old-fashioned term today and is less commonly used in everyday speech, but it still appears in formal and literary contexts. "Comely" connotes an elegant or pleasant appearance that is wholesome and admirable, often evoking a sense of moral beauty or virtue as much as physical allure. The term remains significant in artistic descriptions and in the portrayal of beauty within literature, drama, and poetry.