to come into sight after not being seen
After the heavy rain stopped, a bright rainbow began to appear in the sky.
The magician waved his wand, and a dove suddenly appeared from an empty hat.
✦ From Latin apparēre meaning “to become visible, to be evident.”
to seem or give the impression of being something
From his smile, it appears that he enjoyed the concert.
The task appeared easy at first, but it was actually quite tricky.
✦ Same origin as other senses: Latin apparēre.
to be printed, shown, or become available to read or use
Her article will appear in tomorrow’s newspaper.
A pop-up message appeared on the computer screen, asking me to update the software.
✦ Use developed with the rise of print media and later digital displays.
to take part in a public performance or to be present officially
The famous actor will appear in a new Broadway musical next month.
The band appeared on a late-night talk show to promote their album.
✦ Sense extended in Middle English to public performances and legal presence.
to suddenly go out of sight so that no longer anything can be seen
Watch the magician make the coin disappear right in front of you!
When the sun came out, the thick morning fog began to disappear.
✦ From French disparoir, from Latin disparēre (to vanish).
to stop existing or being available
Many small bookshops could disappear if people only shop online.
Over the years, the ancient language began to disappear from daily life.
✦ See primary sense etymology.
for a person or animal: to go somewhere secretly or be missing so that no one knows where they are
Our cat likes to disappear for hours and return just before dinner.
During the trek, one of the hikers suddenly disappears from view.
✦ Same historical origin as primary sense.
