English Reference
noun · verb

comfort

n. · v.
US /ˈkəmfɝt/ UK /kˈʌmfət/ com·fort UK spelling comforts

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.a pleasant feeling of being relaxed and having no physical pain.

    n.a state of physical ease and freedom from pain or constraint.

    Simple

    The hotel bed was designed for maximum comfort after a long day of travel.

    In context

    Modern ergonomic chairs are engineered to provide sustained comfort for office workers who spend several hours at their desks.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.the feeling of being less sad or worried because of someone's help.

    n.the state of being consoled or the person/thing that provides such consolation during times of distress.

    Simple

    It was a great comfort to have my family nearby during the difficult week.

    In context

    The chaplain provided spiritual comfort to the families waiting in the hospital wing, offering a calm presence amidst the crisis.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.things that make your life easier and more pleasant.

    n.things that contribute to physical ease and well-being, often used in the plural to describe household amenities.

    Simple

    The small cabin lacked modern comforts like running water or electricity.

    In context

    After weeks of camping in the wilderness, the hikers truly appreciated the simple comforts of a hot shower and a soft mattress.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.to make someone feel better when they are sad, worried, or in pain.

    v.to alleviate the grief or distress of someone; to console.

    Simple

    The mother tried to comfort her crying child after he fell down.

    In context

    The therapist worked to comfort the survivors, helping them process their trauma in a safe and supportive environment.

    Usage

    This verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

    upsetdistressagitate

In a divided world, there is comfort in coming together in awe.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

No surprise that the sudden ability to watch the original cast perform the most talked-about Broadway show in years from the comfort of the couch became an at-home event.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated