semblable

1 of 2

adjective

sem·​bla·​ble ˈsem-blə-bəl How to pronounce semblable (audio)
1
: similar
2
: suitable
3
: apparent, seeming
semblably
ˈsem-blə-blē How to pronounce semblable (audio)
adverb

semblable

2 of 2

noun

1
archaic : something similar : like
2
: one that is like oneself : one's fellow

Examples of semblable in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The classic modern revolutionary idea has been to abolish privilege and create a world of similar, and similarly situated, people (best expressed by the French word semblable). —Pierre Rosanvallon, Foreign Affairs, 14 Dec. 2015

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English, "similar, analogous, identical, same," borrowed from Anglo-French, "similar, alike," from sembler "to resemble, seem, appear" + -able -able — more at semblance

Noun

Middle English, borrowed from Anglo-French, noun derivative of semblable, adjective, "similar, analogous" — more at semblable entry 1

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of semblable was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near semblable

sematology

semblable

semblance

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Semblable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semblable. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

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