compose

[ kuhm-pohz ]

verb (used with object)

, com·posed, com·pos·ing.

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)

, com·posed, com·pos·ing.

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 Words From

• com·posa·ble adjective
• uncom·posa·ble 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

The trademark of Slot’s Liverpool has been a more measured, composed strategy when set against the wilder elements of Klopp’s emotion-charged approach.

From BBC

“I’m always composed. Confidence is key. I knew it was good right away … it came off my foot perfectly.”

From Los Angeles Times

Animal meats are composed primarily of protein, fat and water, with small amounts of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

From Salon

At his peak, Vardy was a composed finisher who caused problems with his pace, running in behind defences and forcing mistakes with his pressing.

From BBC

The emitter is composed of a tungsten metal sheet, a thin layer of a spacer material and a network of silicon nanocylinders.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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