seem

[seem]

verb (used without object)

1. to appear to be, feel, do, etc..

   She seems better this morning.

2. to appear to one's own senses, mind, observation, judgment, etc..

   It seems to me that someone is calling.

3. to appear to exist.

   There seems no need to go now.

4. to appear to be true, probable, or evident.

   It seems likely to rain.

5. to give the outward appearance of being or to pretend to be.

   He only seems friendly because he wants you to like him.

seem

/ siːm /

verb

1. (copula) to appear to the mind or eye; look

   this seems nice

   the car seems to be running well

2. to give the impression of existing; appear to be

   there seems no need for all this nonsense

3. used to diminish the force of a following infinitive to be polite, more noncommittal, etc

   I can't seem to get through to you

Other Word Forms

• seemer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of seem¹

First recorded before 1150–1200; Middle English seme, from Old Norse sœma “to befit, beseem,” derivative of sœmr “fitting, seemly”; akin to sōmi “honor”

Word History and Origins

Origin of seem¹

C12: perhaps from Old Norse soma to beseem, from sœmr befitting; related to Old English sēman to reconcile; see _same

Synonym Study

Seem, appear, look refer to an outward aspect that may or may not be contrary to reality. Seem is applied to something that has an aspect of truth and probability: It seems warmer today. Appear suggests the giving of an impression that may be superficial or illusory: The house appears to be deserted. Look more vividly suggests the use of the eye (literally or figuratively) or the aspect as perceived by the eye: She looked very much frightened.

Example Sentences

"I just wondered if the baby was even alive because he seemed so small," she said.

From BBC

Despite his inconsistencies, England are loyal to Pope, and Bethell himself seems to have accepted his fate.

From BBC

The GOP-led Assembly seemed certain to pass it when Burton stood to speak.

From Los Angeles Times

This family was creating what seemed like the perfect memory at a ballpark.

From Salon

Some people did seem to experience problems with the test.

From BBC

Related Words

• imply 
• look 
• show 
• sound 
• suggest