DictionaryRoot: con-
Latin

con-

together, with; sometimes thoroughly

Forms

  • con-
  • com- — Used before certain consonants, especially b, p, and m.
  • col- — The final consonant changed before l.
  • cor- — The final consonant changed before r.
  • co- — The final consonant was lost in some combinations.

Origin

From Latin cum, “with,” and an older form com-.

Note

Togetherness could extend to completeness. Not every word containing this prefix retains an obvious “with” meaning.

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noun

comforter

A person or thing that consoles someone.

Her sister is a patient comforter during the difficult week.

Etymology

Latin con- and fortis connect comfort with strengthening. A comforter strengthens someone emotionally through consolation, with -er identifying the person or thing that provides that support.

More examples

  • The old dog becomes his quiet comforter after the loss.
  • She is an awkward comforter but a loyal friend.
  • The nurse acts as a comforter to the frightened patient.

Forms

comforter · comforters

Similar words

consoler
Specifically someone who offers relief from sorrow.
supporter
A supporter offers aid or encouragement; a comforter specifically eases grief or distress.