Seeming
ˈsiːmɪŋ
Definitions
2 meaningsAppearing to be something, but not certainly so; giving the impression of being.
ˈsiːmɪŋ
Appearing to be something, though not necessarily the reality.
Her calm demeanor was just a seeming of control; inside she was anxious.
💡 Simply: When something *seems* a certain way, it's how it looks or feels at first, even if it might be different underneath, like a magic trick!
👶 For kids: When something *seems* like it's one thing, but maybe it's not really.
More Examples
The seeming simplicity of the puzzle actually masked a very complex solution.
The seeming endless rain finally stopped, and the sun came out.
How It's Used
"Despite the seeming chaos, the project was well-organized."
"The seemingly innocent act concealed a deeper motive."
The impression given or the act of appearing in a particular way.
ˈsiːmɪŋ
The act of giving an impression.
Her lack of response gave the seeming of disinterest.
💡 Simply: When we talk about the 'seeming' of something, we are talking about what it looks or feels like.
👶 For kids: The way something seems.
More Examples
The seeming of her anger was a bit overstated.
The seeming of confidence helped the student to do better on the test.
How It's Used
"The story was fraught with the seeming of impending doom."
Synonyms
Apparent
Likely
Plausible
Presumed
Appearance
Aspect
Impression
Idioms & expressions
seemingly harmless
Appearing to be harmless but potentially dangerous.
"The seemingly harmless game had a hidden addictive quality."
From Middle English *semynge*, present participle of *semen* ('to seem'), from Old English *sēman* ('to appear, seem').
The word 'seeming' has existed since Middle English times and was particularly common in literature to describe perceptions and appearances.
Memory tip
Think of a mask; what someone's *seeming* to be might hide what they truly are.