seem

verb

ˈsēm 

seemed; seeming; seems

intransitive verb

1

: to appear to the observation or understanding

2

: to give the impression of being

Synonyms

• act
• appear
• come across (as)
• come off (as)
• feel
• look
• make
• sound

Examples of seem in a Sentence

What they're doing doesn't seem right to me.

I tried to cheer them up because they seemed depressed.

Recent Examples on the Web

Characterized by embracing your natural shape and texture—imperfections and all—the trend is a fitting one for 2025, as the year already seems to be celebrating a distinct come-as-you-are vibe as far as beauty goes. —Dulce Moncada, Glamour, 7 Apr. 2025

The odometer-like graphic seems to resonate with everyday readers. —Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 7 Apr. 2025

Given the Predator: Badlands director also helmed Prey, some story crossover seems likely. —John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025

While this role may seem simple, attention to detail is crucial for success. —Julia Korn, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English semen to appear to be, be fitting, of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse sœma to honor, sœmr fitting, samr same — more at same

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for seem

• beam
• bream
• cream
• creme
• deem
• dream
• gleam
• meme
• ream
• scheme
• scream
• seam

Kids Definition

seem

verb

ˈsēm 

1

: to give the impression of being : appear

the request seems reasonable

2

a

: to appear to a person's own mind or opinion

can't seem to solve the problem

b

: to appear to be

there seems no reason for worry