compeer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Literary
Quick answer
What does “compeer” mean?
A person of equal status, rank, or ability.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person of equal status, rank, or ability; a peer or colleague.
A companion or associate, often used in literary contexts to denote friendship or equality. Can also be used as a verb (archaic/rare) meaning to be the equal of.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Slightly more likely to be recognized in UK literary contexts, but equally rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes a sense of classical education, formality, and antiquity. Can sound pretentious if used in modern casual speech.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both dialects. More common in 16th-19th century literature than in contemporary use.
Grammar
How to Use “compeer” in a Sentence
N of N (a compeer of the king)N and N (Shakespeare and his compeer, Marlowe)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “compeer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- In his own estimation, he compeered the masters of the Renaissance.
American English
- Few modern authors compeer the great satirists of the 18th century.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used. 'Counterpart' or 'peer' is preferred.
Academic
Possible in literary or historical analysis: 'The poet regarded his contemporary as his greatest compeer.'
Everyday
Extremely unlikely. Would confuse most listeners.
Technical
Not used in technical fields.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “compeer”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “compeer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “compeer”
- Using it to mean 'competitor' (confusion with 'compete'), 'boss', or simply 'friend'. Mispronouncing as /ˈkɒm.pi.ə/ (like 'company').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is extremely rare in modern English and is considered formal or archaic. You will primarily encounter it in older literature.
A 'compeer' is specifically an equal in status, rank, or ability. A 'friend' is someone you have a bond of affection with. A compeer may or may not be a friend.
Yes, but it is even rarer and considered archaic. It means 'to be the equal of' (e.g., 'He compeers the great masters').
'Peer' is the most direct and commonly used synonym. 'Counterpart' also works well in many contexts.
A person of equal status, rank, or ability.
Compeer is usually formal, literary in register.
Compeer: in British English it is pronounced /kəmˈpɪə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /kɑmˈpɪr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “have no compeer (to be unequalled)”
- “stand without compeer”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'COM' (together) + 'PEER' (equal). A compeer is someone you are together with as an equal.
Conceptual Metaphor
EQUALITY IS SIDE-BY-SIDE POSITION (as in 'peer' or 'counterpart').
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the use of 'compeer' be MOST appropriate?