Appear

Definition

Appear is a verb that means to come into sight or become visible, to seem to be a certain way, or to be present in a specific place or situation. It can also mean to take on an external impression or to perform in a role or event.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈpɪr/
• Respelling: uh-PEER

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈpɪə/
• Respelling: uh-PEER

Etymology

The word "appear" originates from the Latin word "apparere," meaning "to come into view" or "to make oneself visible." It came into Old French as "apareir," eventually entering Middle English in the 13th century as "apere," meaning "to come into sight or become visible."

Derivatives

• Appearance (noun)
• Disappear (verb)
• Reappear (verb)
• Apparent (adjective)
• Appearing (verb)

Synonyms

• Show
• Seem
• Manifest

Antonyms

• Disappear
• Hide
• Vanish

Usage

The term "appear" is often used to describe the process of something becoming visible or seeming to be a certain way. For example, "The sun began to appear over the horizon," or "She appeared happy despite the challenges."

Related Terms

• Presence: The state of being present or visible in a place.
• Manifest: To show or display something clearly.
• Emergence: The process of coming into view or becoming known.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To come into view or become visible: Refers to the act of something or someone being seen.
  • Example: "The stars appear in the night sky as the sun sets."
• To seem or look a certain way: Used to indicate how something looks or the impression it gives.
  • Example: "He appears confident before the presentation."
• To take part in a public event or show up in a place: Refers to an individual’s participation or presence in a particular situation.
  • Example: "The actor will appear in the upcoming film."