compose
kuhm-POHZ
Compose (verb) means to make up or form the parts of something. Example: “Twelve members compose the committee.”
verb
1
To make up or form the parts of something.
"Twelve members compose the committee."
"Several small islands compose the northern part of the country."
"Fruit and nuts compose most of her breakfast."
2
To create a piece of music or writing.
"She composed a symphony in just three weeks."
"He sat down to compose a letter of apology."
"He likes to compose short poems for his children at bedtime."
3
To calm oneself or bring one's emotions under control.
"He took a deep breath to compose himself before the interview."
"She paused in the corridor to compose herself before walking on stage."
"Try to compose yourself, take a sip of water and start again."
How to use compose
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo create something by putting parts together, or to make up a whole, or to calm down.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
compose a piece
compose oneself
compose a message
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- composes
- Past tense
- composed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Twelve members _____ the committee.
Etymology
From Old French composer, adapted from Latin componere, "to put together," from com- ("together") + ponere ("to place").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for compose
See all rhymes for compose →Frequently asked questions
What does “compose” mean?
The word “compose” means to make up or form the parts of something. In plain terms, to create something by putting parts together, or to make up a whole, or to calm down.
How do you pronounce “compose”?
“Compose” is pronounced kuhm-POHZ (/kəmˈpoʊz/ in IPA).
How do you use “compose” in a sentence?
Here is “compose” used in a sentence: “Twelve members compose the committee.”
What is another word for “compose”?
Words with a similar meaning to “compose” include form, indite, compound, comprise, make up and represent.
What part of speech is “compose”?
“Compose” is a verb.
Where does the word “compose” come from?
The word “compose” comes from Latin. From Old French composer, adapted from Latin componere, "to put together," from com- ("together") + ponere ("to place").
Is “compose” a common word?
“Compose” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “compose” have?
“Compose” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make up or form the parts of something.
