The concept of a couple is one that is widely recognized and understood in society. It is a term that is used to describe two people who are in a romantic relationship and are committed to each other. While the definition of a couple may seem straightforward, there are many nuances and variations to this term that are worth exploring.
Definitions
A couple is defined as two people who are in a romantic or sexual relationship with each other. This relationship can be formal or informal, and can be characterized by a variety of different factors, such as emotional intimacy, physical attraction, shared interests, and mutual support.
Origin
The word “couple” has its origins in the Latin word “copula,” which means “a bond” or “a tie.” This term was used to describe the connection between two things or people, and eventually came to be associated specifically with romantic relationships.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of a couple can vary slightly depending on the dictionary you consult. For example, the Oxford English Dictionary defines a couple as “two people who are married, engaged, or otherwise closely associated romantically or sexually.” Merriam-Webster, on the other hand, defines a couple as “two people who are married or who have a romantic or sexual relationship.”
Associations
The term “couple” is often associated with concepts like love, commitment, and partnership. It can also be associated with ideas like intimacy, trust, and loyalty.
Synonyms
There are many synonyms for the term “couple,” including pair, duo, twosome, and dyad. These terms all refer to two people who are closely associated with each other in some way.
Antonyms
The antonyms of a couple are terms like single, solo, and alone. These terms refer to individuals who are not in a romantic or sexual relationship with anyone else.
The same root words
The term “couple” shares its root with words like copulate, copulation, and copulative. These words all relate to the act of sexual intercourse or the connection between two things or people.
Example Sentences
- “John and Jane have been a couple for five years now.”
- “I saw a couple walking hand in hand down the street.”
- “They’re not just colleagues, they’re also a couple.”
- “I need a couple of hours to finish this project.”
- “The couple exchanged vows in a beautiful outdoor ceremony.”