DictionaryAI

seem

verb
SEEM/siːm/

Formsseems, seeming, seemed

3 meanings of seem

Practice

  1. 1
    appearverbintransitive
    To look or feel a certain way to someone, even when you cannot be sure it is true.

    Like guessing how someone feels just by looking at their face.

    The kids seem tired after the long trip.

    It seems like rain is coming this afternoon.

    UsageSay seem + a describing word or seem to + verb: seems tired, seems to like it.

    Similarappear, look, sound

  2. 2
    despite tryingverbintransitive
    Used after can't or couldn't when someone tries to do something but still fails.

    I can't seem to find my keys anywhere.

    He couldn't seem to stay awake during the movie.

    UsageOften shows you are a little annoyed after trying: I can't seem to find it.

    Similarmanage

    Note
  3. 3
    verbobsolete
    To be right or fitting for a person or situation.
    And all within were pathes and alleies wide, With footing worne, and leading inward farre: Faire harbour that them seemes; so in they entred arre.
    1590, Edmund Spenser, The Faerie QueeneHere, seemes means is fitting or right for them.
    Note

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of seem apart? Answer 4 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

It comes from Middle English "semen," from Old Norse "sœma," meaning to fit or be fitting.

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 3 facts