Langimage
English

seem

|seem|

B1

/siːm/

appear to be

Etymology
Etymology Information

'seem' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'semen,' where 'semen' meant 'to appear or be fitting.'

Historical Evolution

'semen' transformed into the modern English word 'seem' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to appear or be fitting,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to give the impression of being or doing something.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to give the impression of being or doing something.

He seems happy today.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to appear to exist or be true, or to have a particular quality.

It seems that she is not coming.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35