Person

Definition

Person is a noun that refers to a human being as an individual. It is used to describe someone with distinct identity, personality, and characteristics. In a legal context, it can also refer to an entity, such as a corporation, considered as having individual rights and responsibilities.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɝː.sən/
• Respelling: PUR-suhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɜː.sən/
• Respelling: PUR-suhn

Etymology

The word "person" originates from the Latin "persona," meaning "mask" or "character," which referred to the masks worn by actors in plays. It evolved through Old French into Middle English, acquiring the broader sense of an individual human being.

Derivatives

• Personal (adjective)
• Personality (noun)
• Personhood (noun)
• Personify (verb)
• Personable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Individual
• Human
• Being

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "person" is widely used in everyday language to refer to an individual. Examples include "The building can hold up to 500 persons" and "Each person has their own unique story."

Related Terms

• Individual: Refers to a single human being distinct from a group.
• Entity: Something that exists as a unit, including organizations or corporations.
• Human: A member of the species Homo sapiens.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A human being as an individual: Refers to someone with unique identity and characteristics.
  • Example: "Each person in the room contributed to the discussion."
• A legal entity: Used in law to refer to individuals or organizations with rights and responsibilities.
  • Example: "The corporation is considered a legal person."
• A character or role: Historically, it referred to a character in a play or literary work.
  • Example: "The person of Hamlet was played by a renowned actor."