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companionable

[kuhm-pan-yuh-nuh-buhl] / kəmˈpæn yə nə bəl /


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for companionable?
Describing someone as companionable means that they are pleasant to be with or be around. It often means that they are (or at least have the makings of) a good companion or friend. Words that suggest a similar sense of friendliness and comfort include congenial and affable. The word simpatico can mean the same thing. A person who is described as companionable is often compatible with their companion or friend. The word companionable isn’t only applied to people. The phrase companionable silence, for example, refers to the kind of silence that occurs between people who are comfortable enough with each other that they can be in each other’s presence without always needing to speak.
What is the opposite (antonym) of companionable?
Words that suggest the opposite of companionable include unfriendly and antagonistic. These suggest that a person is the opposite of what makes a good companion—that they are cold or perhaps even hostile. The opposite of a companionable silence is an awkward silence, which suggests a lack of closeness or ease.
How do you use companionable in a sentence?
Companionable isn’t used all that often, perhaps because it sounds a bit too formal to describe a person you’re familiar or comfortable with. Here are some examples of companionable in a sentence:
  • I did all I could to be friendly and companionable, but no one seemed to have any interest in talking with me.
  • We spent the plane ride in companionable silence, occasionally pointing out passages in the books we were reading. 
  • I had a most companionable conversation with the new principal—I think we’ll get on quite well.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is presumably because the Beeb doesn't have a department overseeing Companionable Chuntering.

From The Guardian • May 11, 2013

Companionable guide to the English countryside, by the author of Limehouse Nights.

From Time Magazine Archive

Unwearied still, lover by lover, They paddle in the cold, Companionable streams or climb the air; Their hearts have not grown old; Passion or conquest, wander where they will, Attend upon them still.

From The Wild Swans at Coole by Yeats, W. B. (William Butler)

Companionable and sociable refer to manner and behavior, cordial and genial express genuine kindliness of heart.

From English Synonyms and Antonyms With Notes on the Correct Use of Prepositions by Fernald, James Champlin

Companionable salmon-boilings round a common pot had no charms for him.

From In the Oregon Country Out-Doors in Oregon, Washington, and California Together with some Legendary Lore, and Glimpses of the Modern West in the Making by Putnam, George Palmer




Vocabulary lists containing companionable


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