comprise

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to be composed of

   The land they conquered comprised several provinces.

2. 2
   verb

   To be made up of; to consist of (especially a comprehensive list of parts).

   Near-synonyms: subsume, contain, include, embrace, comprehend

3. 3
   verb

   To compose; to constitute.

   Near-synonym: make up

4. 4
   verb

   To include, contain, or be made up of, defining the minimum elements, whether essential or inessential to define an invention.

   (close-ended)

5. 5
   verb

   to form or compose

6. 6
   verb

   to include or contain

Etymology

From Middle English comprisen, from Old French compris, past participle of comprendre, from Latin comprehendere, contr. comprendere, past participle comprehensus (“to comprehend”); see comprehend. Compare apprise, reprise, surprise.