Couple

Definition

Couple refers to two people or things that are paired or associated together, often in a romantic or functional relationship. It can also imply a small indefinite number, typically around two.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌp.əl/
• Respelling: KUP-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌp.əl/
• Respelling: KUP-uhl

Etymology

The word "couple" originates from the Latin "copula," meaning "a bond or connection," which evolved in Old French as "cople," denoting a pair or union. In English, it took on the modern meaning of a pair or grouping, often used to describe romantic partners or objects associated together.

Derivatives

• Coupling (noun)
• Coupled (adjective)
• Coupledom (noun)
• Uncouple (verb)
• Decouple (verb)

Synonyms

• Pair
• Duo
• Twosome

Antonyms

• Single
• Individual
• One

Usage

The term "couple" is widely used to describe a pair of two items or individuals, often in a romantic relationship. For example, "The couple celebrated their anniversary." It can also refer to a small, approximate number when used in a casual sense, as in "a couple of days."

Related Terms

• Pair: Two associated items or people.
• Partner: A person who shares a relationship with another.
• Union: A state of being joined or associated.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Two individuals in a romantic relationship: Refers to people who are romantically paired.
  • Example: "The married couple went on vacation."
• Two items grouped together: Describes two objects or items linked as a set.
  • Example: "A couple of chairs were set by the window."
• A small, indefinite number: Used to indicate a few, typically around two.
  • Example: "It will take a couple of minutes."

Verb

• To join or link together: Describes the action of connecting or associating things.
  • Example: "The two devices were coupled to work in tandem."
• To form a romantic or sexual relationship: Refers to two people becoming partners in a romantic context.
  • Example: "They eventually coupled after years of friendship."