Comprise

Definition

Comprise means to include or contain; it refers to the makeup or constitution of something, where parts come together to form a whole. It is used to describe what components or elements a whole entity is made of.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈpraɪz/
• Respelling: kuhm-PRYZ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈpraɪz/
• Respelling: kuhm-PRYZ

Etymology

The word "comprise" originates from the French word "compris," meaning "to contain or include." This comes from the Latin "comprehendere," which means "to grasp, include, or understand." The term has been in use in English since the 15th century, and it continues to refer to how parts come together to form a whole.

Derivatives

• Comprised (verb, past tense)
• Comprising (verb, present participle)
• Comprehensive (adjective)
• Comprehension (noun)
• Recomprise (verb)

Synonyms

• Include
• Contain
• Incorporate

Antonyms

• Exclude
• Omit
• Neglect

Usage

The verb "comprise" is used to describe the makeup of a whole entity by its components. It is commonly used in formal and academic contexts. For example, "The committee comprises five members," or "The United States comprises 50 states." It is important to note that "comprise" is used correctly when the whole is mentioned first, followed by its parts.

Related Terms

• Compose: To make up or form the substance of something.
• Constitute: To be a part of a whole or to create or establish something.
• Contain: To hold or include within something larger.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To include or contain as part of a whole: Describes how different elements or components come together to form a complete entity.
  • Example: "The book comprises 20 chapters."
• To consist of: Another usage that indicates the structure or constitution of something.
  • Example: "The team comprises athletes from various countries."