Middle English Dictionary Entry
semble adj.
Entry Info
| Forms | semble adj. |
| Etymology | OF; for sense (b) cp. ME semblaunt n.1.(b) and F (16th cent.) semble or false gold. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) Similar; also, the same; in ~ wise, similarly, in like manner, likewise; (b) false, hypocritical.
Associated quotations
a
- (c1431) Let.Hen.VI in Archaeol.23341 : There is like to be a semble gaderyng in Cantebr[idge] Shire.
- ?1435 Lond.Chron.Jul.(Jul B.2)79 : In semble wise..Richard Wodeville..was depute..ffor to abyde ther Inne.
- (1436) in Rymer's Foedera (1709-10)10.635 : Semble Letters of Saufconduyt we wol gladly grante to Persones to be named be you, to come to oure Presence.
- (1449) MSS Verulam in HMC4 : He shall..say that in like manere as the seid oncle desireth the seide place without delaye to be abated in semble wyse.
- ?c1450 Knt.Tour-L.(Hrl 1764)87/14 : The quene..besought hym that men shulde do semble iustice to Amon.
- c1475 Libel EP (RwlPoet 32)224 : In semble wise [Warner: efte the duke in semblable wyse Wrote to the kynge as he fyrste dyd devyse].
b
- (a1470) Malory Wks.(Win-C)549/11 : False treson have ye wrought undir youre semble chere.