Word of the Day : January 5, 2021

comely \KUM-lee\ adjective

Definition

1 : pleasurably conforming to notions of good appearance, suitability, or proportion

2 : having a pleasing appearance : not homely or plain

Did You Know?

Although comely is now typically used to describe the appearance of human beings, it was once used more broadly of other appealing things, such as fine clothing. Comely can be traced back to Old English words variously meaning "glorious," "lively," or "fine." If you are looking to pretty up your prose or poetry with additional words meaning "beautiful," English is well-supplied with them. Aside from beautiful itself, we have lovely, handsome, pretty, fair, good-looking, gorgeous, ravishing, and even well-favored.

Aired January 5, 2021

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