comfort
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈkʌmfərt/
KK: /ˈkʌmfərt/
noun
Definition
A state of feeling relaxed and free from pain or worry; a sense of ease and well-being.
Example
After a long day, I found comfort in my favorite chair with a good book.
Conversation
After a long day, I really need some comfort food.
I totally get that! What are you thinking of eating?
Maybe some pizza or a big bowl of pasta would do the trick.
Sounds perfect! Nothing like good food for comfort.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ease
solace
relief
Antonyms
discomfort
pain
suffering
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone feel better when they are sad or in pain.
Example
She tried to comfort her friend after the loss.
Tense Forms
Past: comforted
Past Participle: comforted
Conversation
I heard you were feeling down lately, is everything okay?
Not really, I've been struggling with some personal stuff.
If you want, I can comfort you by just hanging out and talking.
Root Explanation
Comfort → It is formed from "com-" (meaning with or together) and "fortis" (meaning strong or strength). The word "comfort" originally referred to providing strength or support to someone, thus meaning to ease someone's feelings or provide solace.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'with strength' ('com-') to help someone feel better — that's why comfort means to ease someone's feelings.
Visually Confused Words
uncomfort
recomfort
comport
discomfort
commorth