Person — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈpər-sᵊn/ per·son

Meaning & Definition of Person

Person (noun)

  1. human, individual —sometimes used in combination to avoid man in compounds applicable to anyone
  2. a person who likes or enjoys a specified thing
  3. the personality of a human being, self

Word Forms of Person

Derived words: personhood (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Person

Middle English, from Anglo-French persone, from Latin persona actor's mask, character in a play, person, probably from Etruscan phersu mask, from Greek prosōpa, plural of prosōpon face, mask prosopopoeia

First known use: 13th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Person

Words & Phrases Containing Person

Frequently Asked Questions about Person

What does "Person" mean?

"Person" means human, individual —sometimes used in combination to avoid man in compounds applicable to anyone. As a noun, it is defined as: human, individual —sometimes used in combination to avoid man in compounds applicable to anyone. It has 3 distinct senses.

Is "Person" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Person" is a noun.

Is "Person" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As an A1-level word, "Person" is typical of Cambridge A1 Movers (Young Learners), TOEIC Listening & Reading 120+.

How do you pronounce "Person"?

"Person" is pronounced /ˈpər-sᵊn/ and divided into syllables as per·son.

What is the origin of the word "Person"?

"Person" comes from Middle English, from Anglo-French persone, from Latin persona actor's mask, character in a play, person, probably from Etruscan phersu mask, from Greek prosōpa, plural of prosōpon face, mask prosopopoeia. First known use: 13th century.

What CEFR level is "Person"?

"Person" is an A1-level word in SophDict's CEFR vocabulary lists, which group English words from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

What topics is "Person" used in?

"Person" is commonly used in topics such as Family & People.

What words are derived from "Person"?

Words derived from "Person" include personhood (noun).