Definition of compose

The word "compose" has a fascinating origin. It comes from the Latin "componere," which means "to put together" or "to combine." This Latin term is a combination of "com-" (meaning "together") and "ponere" (meaning "to put"). In the 14th century, the Latin "componere" was borrowed into Middle English as "compose," initially meaning "to combine or assemble" physical objects, such as pieces of art or elements of a whole. Over time, the meaning of "compose" expanded to include the idea of combining or arranging words, thoughts, or emotions to create something coherent or harmonious, such as music, literature, or poetry. Today, the word "compose" has multiple meanings, including not only its original sense of assembling physical objects but also the sense of creating artistic or literary works by combining elements, as well as the sense of calming or soothing one's emotions or thoughts through organization and arrangement.