Definition

A person or machine that combs something, like wool, or a type of wave in the sea that has reached its peak and is breaking into foam.

Example

The comber machine helped to prepare the wool for spinning.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a big comber at the beach?

Yeah, they look so majestic when they crash onto the shore.

I love watching them; it's like nature's own show.

Absolutely! They remind me of the power of the ocean.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'comber' originates from Old English 'cumb', meaning a valley or hollow, and the suffix '-er', which denotes a person associated with a specific action or place. A comber is thus a person associated with a valley or a hollow area, often referring to someone who combs or arranges something, like hair or wool.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who works in a 'valley' ('cumb') and is involved in 'combing' or arranging things — that's why a comber is someone who combs.

Visually Confused Words