adjective
comely
KUM-lee/ˈkʌmli/
Pleasantly attractive in appearance.
The portrait shows a comely middle-aged man with a welcoming smile.
Etymology
Comely probably continues an Old English word meaning “lovely, finely made,” though a word meaning “becomely” is another possible source. Its early English meaning, “suitable or proper,” shifted toward what is pleasing in appearance.
In context
with a smile of friendly welcome on her comely face and looking so sweet and Charming that I yearned then and there to take her in my arms and kiss her
More examples
- The novel describes its hero as comely and courteous.
- She admires the cottage's comely proportions.
- His comely appearance attracts attention at the gathering.
Forms
comely · comelier · comeliest
Similar words
- attractive
- Attractive is broad; comely is a more literary word for pleasing physical appearance.
- beautiful
- Beautiful is a broad strong compliment; comely is a restrained or literary description of pleasing appearance.