compare

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to examine and note the similarities or differences of

   I compared my haircut to my friend's.

2. 2
   verb

   to consider or describe as similar, equal, or analogous

   We can compare the Han dynasty to the Romans

3. 3
   verb

   to form the comparative or superlative form on an adjective or adverb

   We compare "good" as "good", "better", "best".

4. 4
   verb

   to be akin or comparable

   This car does not compare with our line of far superior cars.

5. 5
   verb

   To assess the similarities and differences between two or more things ["to compare X with Y"]. Having made the comparison of X with Y, one might have found it similar to Y or different from Y.

   Compare the tiger's coloration with that of the zebra.

6. 6
   verb

   To declare two things to be similar in some respect ["to compare X to Y"].

   Astronomers have compared comets to dirty snowballs.

7. 7
   verb

   To form the three degrees of comparison of (an adjective).

   We compare "good" as "good", "better", "best".

8. 8
   verb

   To be similar (often used in the negative).

   A sapling and a fully-grown oak tree do not compare.

Etymology

From Middle English comparen, from Old French comparer, from Latin comparare (“to prepare, procure”), from compar (“like or equal to another”), from com- + par (“equal”). Displaced native Old English metan (“to compare,” also “to measure”).