becoming

UK: bɪˈkʌmɪŋ | US: bɪˈkʌmɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. appropriate or suitable in appearance or behavior

  2. adj. (archaic) attractive or graceful

  3. v. (present participle of "become") the process of coming to be something

Structure
be <to cause to be>come <to move toward>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "becoming" originates from Old English becuman ("to come, arrive, happen"), combining be- (a prefix intensifying or completing the action) and cuman ("to come"). Over time, its participle form evolved to describe the process of transformation ("coming to be") and later acquired the adjectival sense of "fitting" or "attractive," likely influenced by the idea of something naturally "coming into" its proper state.

Examples

  1. Her modest dress was very becoming for the formal event.

  2. The sky’s colors at sunset are truly becoming.

  3. He is becoming more confident with each performance.

  4. The fabric has a becoming sheen under the light.

  5. Their friendship is becoming stronger over time.