Appearance

/əˈpɪərəns/

nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The way someone or something looks; outward look or aspect.

/əˈpɪərəns/

nounneutralBeginner
General

The way someone or something looks

His appearance suggested wealth.

💡 Simply: How something looks.

More Examples

2

The appearance of the cake was delicious.

How It's Used

Everyday Life

"Her appearance was striking."

Fashion

"The model's appearance was carefully curated."

2

The act or fact of something becoming visible or known.

/əˈpɪərəns/

nounneutralIntermediate
General

The act of appearing or becoming visible

The appearance of the rainbow was a joyful sight.

💡 Simply: The moment something becomes visible.

More Examples

2

Her unexpected appearance surprised everyone.

How It's Used

Science

"The sudden appearance of the comet was unexpected."

Theatre

"The actor's appearance on stage was met with applause."

Tip:Think of something suddenly 'appearing' before you.

Idioms & expressions

make an appearance

To be present at an event.

"The celebrity made a surprise appearance at the party."

From Old French *apparence, from Latin *apparēre "to appear," from ad- "to" + parēre "to appear, seem."

The word 'appearance' has maintained consistent usage throughout history, mainly referring to outward looks and the act of appearing.

Memory tip

Think of 'appearing' – how something presents itself to others.

apparanceapearenceapperance

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written