conform

Pronunciation: kun-FORM

verb

Difficulty: common

Definition of conform

To act in accordance with established standards, rules, or laws; to behave in a manner that aligns with the expectations or norms of a particular group or system.

Origin of conform

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: conformare

Original meaning: to form together

How it evolved: It originally referred to shaping something in a unified way, later extending to behavior aligning with societal norms.

The word 'conform' traces back to the Latin 'conformare,' meaning 'to form together' or 'to shape to a pattern.'

First known use: 14th century

How to Remember conform

Think of 'conform' as 'con' + 'form'—you 'form' yourself to fit 'with' ('con') the rules or expectations.

Synonyms for conform

Antonyms of conform

conform in a Sentence

  1. The company required all employees to conform to the new dress code policy to maintain a professional image.
  2. In the face of societal pressure, she struggled to conform to the traditional expectations placed upon her.
  3. To succeed in the highly structured program, students must conform to its rigorous academic standards.

conform in Literature & Culture

The idea of conformity has been a central theme in literature and philosophy, from George Orwell's '1984' to discussions of peer pressure in modern psychology.

Usage Notes

The word 'conform' often carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of individuality or personal choice when used in certain contexts. Be careful not to confuse it with 'reform,' which means to improve or change something for the better.

Why conform Matters for GRE & SAT

This word is frequently tested on the GRE as it relates to social and philosophical concepts, critical reasoning passages, and vocabulary in text completions.

Word Family

conformity (noun)
Compliance with standards, rules, or laws.
nonconformist (noun)
A person who refuses to conform to established customs or norms.
conforming (adjective)
In compliance with rules or standards.

Did You Know?

  • The concept of 'conformity' was famously explored in psychology experiments, such as Solomon Asch's studies on group behavior.
  • Ralph Waldo Emerson's essay 'Self-Reliance' argues strongly against conformity, emphasizing individuality.
  • The word 'conform' is often used in discussions of fashion, culture, and societal norms.
  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • calumny — slander and defamation

More Vocabulary Words Starting with C

  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cacophonous — extremely noisy; grating
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • cajole — persuade through flattery or gentle urging
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callous — emotionally unfeeling or insensitive
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • callow — young and inexperienced; immature
  • calumny — slander and defamation
  • calumny — slander and defamation