noun
semblance
SEHMB-luhns
Semblance (noun) means an outward appearance of something, especially one that may not match the reality underneath. Example: “They tried to maintain a semblance of normality during the crisis.”
noun
1
An outward appearance of something, especially one that may not match the reality underneath.
"They tried to maintain a semblance of normality during the crisis."
"There was barely a semblance of order in the classroom."
How to use semblance
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA surface impression of something, often used when the real thing is shaky or only partly true.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a semblance of order
a semblance of control
some semblance of normality
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Word forms
- Plural
- semblances
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
They tried to maintain a _____ of normality during the crisis.
Etymology
From Old French semblance, from sembler, "to seem or resemble," ultimately from Latin simulare, "to imitate."
Related words
Rhymes for semblance
See all rhymes for semblance →Frequently asked questions
What does “semblance” mean?
The word “semblance” means an outward appearance of something, especially one that may not match the reality underneath. In plain terms, a surface impression of something, often used when the real thing is shaky or only partly true.
How do you pronounce “semblance”?
“Semblance” is pronounced SEHMB-luhns (/ˈsɛmblən(t)s/ in IPA).
How do you use “semblance” in a sentence?
Here is “semblance” used in a sentence: “They tried to maintain a semblance of normality during the crisis.”
What part of speech is “semblance”?
“Semblance” is a noun.
Where does the word “semblance” come from?
The word “semblance” comes from Latin. From Old French semblance, from sembler, "to seem or resemble," ultimately from Latin simulare, "to imitate.".
