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View synonyms for

compose

[kuhm-pohz]

verb (used with object)

composed, composing 
  1. to make or form by combining things, parts, or elements.

    He composed his speech from many research notes.

  2. to be or constitute a part or element of.

    a rich sauce composed of many ingredients.

  3. to make up or form the basis of.

    Style composes the essence of good writing.

  4. to put or dispose in proper form or order.

    to compose laws into a coherent system.

  5. Art.to organize the parts or elements of (a picture or the like).

  6. to create (a musical, literary, or choreographic work).

  7. to end or settle (a quarrel, dispute, etc.).

    The union and management composed their differences.

  8. to bring (oneself, one's mind, etc.) to a condition of calmness, repose, etc.; calm; quiet.

    Synonyms: ,
  9. Printing.

    1. to set (type).

    2. to set type for (an article, book, etc.).



verb (used without object)

composed, composing 
  1. to engage in composition, especially musical composition.

  2. to enter into composition; fall into an arrangement.

    a scene that composes well.

compose

/ əˈəʊ /

verb

  1. to put together or make up by combining; put in proper order

  2. to be the component elements of

  3. to produce or create (a musical or literary work)

  4. (intr) to write music

  5. to calm (someone, esp oneself); make quiet

  6. to adjust or settle (a quarrel, etc)

  7. to order the elements of (a painting, sculpture, etc); design

  8. printing to set up (type)

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Word Forms

  • composable adjective
  • uncomposable adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of compose1

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English word from Middle French word composer. See com-, pose 1
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Word History and Origins

Origin of compose1

C15: from Old French composer, from Latin dzōԱ to put in place; see component
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The usually composed Willie le Roux's bewildering chip in his own 22 did not cost his side at the time, but summed up their inefficiencies.

From

Those results suggest that ordinary citizens, in small groups composed of representative samples, can make sound, fact-based decisions — at the same public-spirited level that James Madison sought to ensure in his design of the U.S.

From

The Bruins composed themselves to sweep their regional and super regional to win something that had eluded them for more than a decade.

From

He had an amazing ability to compose, very simple things and very complex things, all at the same time.

From

Remaining composed down the finishing stretch in Atlanta, when he knew the goal of playing his maiden major was within touching distance, was proof of the rapid progress he is making.

From

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comportmentcomposed