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: collect, settle

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

/ kəmˈpəʊz /

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)

Other Word Forms

• composable adjective
• uncomposable adjective

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of compose¹

C15: from Old French composer, from Latin compōnere to put in place; see _component

Example Sentences

In late 2022, after ChatGPT launched, many schools initially banned AI, fearing it would be used to churn out term papers, compose presentations and farm out math homework.

From Los Angeles Times

But, after the passing of the Tattooist Act by the General Assembly on Thursday, non-medical professionals - who compose most of the industry - will be able to obtain a licence.

From BBC

“He would write an entire album in his room, and I wouldn’t even hear him record it. And it would be fantastically composed,” Bellina said of his friend’s many talents.

From Los Angeles Times

It even has a name: The Second Immortal Dinner, in which Blundy for the first time read his corona, a poem composed as a sequence of sonnets, that had been lost long ago.

From Los Angeles Times

They each composed a new song for AKB48 as the group celebrated their 20th anniversary.

From BBC

Related Words

• conceive 
• design 
• devise 
• form 
• invent 
• orchestrate 
• pen 
• produce 
• set up 
• write