Comfort

Definition

Comfort is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a state of physical ease and freedom from pain or stress, or a sense of emotional consolation. As a verb, it means to ease someone's pain or grief or to offer consolation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌmfərt/
• Respelling: KUM-furt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌmfət/
• Respelling: KUM-fut

Etymology

The word "comfort" originates from the Old French term "confort," meaning "strength" or "support," derived from the Latin "confortare," meaning "to strengthen greatly." The term evolved in Middle English to mean both physical ease and emotional consolation.

Derivatives

• Comfortable (adjective)
• Comforting (adjective)
• Comforter (noun)
• Uncomfortable (adjective)
• Comfortably (adverb)

Synonyms

• Ease
• Relief
• Consolation

Antonyms

• Discomfort
• Distress
• Pain

Usage

The term "comfort" is commonly used to describe a state of ease or a supportive action, either physically or emotionally. For example, "She found comfort in her family’s support," or "The couch offers great comfort after a long day."

Related Terms

• Ease: Freedom from pain or difficulty.
• Relief: A feeling of reassurance or alleviation of pain or distress.
• Consolation: The comfort received by a person after a loss or disappointment.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A state of physical ease and relaxation: Describes a condition in which there is minimal physical discomfort or pain.
  • Example: "The plush chair provided a sense of comfort."
• Emotional support or consolation: Refers to a sense of reassurance or relief from sadness or distress.
  • Example: "She sought comfort from her friends during hard times."

Verb

• To alleviate someone’s pain, grief, or distress: Used to describe the action of providing support or reassurance to someone in need.
  • Example: "He tried to comfort his sister after her loss."