/seem/ , v.i.
1. to appear to be, feel, do, etc.: She seems better this morning.
2. to appear to one's own senses, mind, observation, judgment, etc.: It seems to me that someone is calling.
3. to appear to exist: There seems no need to go now.
4. to appear to be true, probable, or evident: It seems likely to rain.
5. to give the outward appearance of being or to pretend to be: He only seems friendly because he wants you to like him.
[ 1150-1200; ME seme soema to befit, beseem, deriv. of soemr fitting, seemly; akin to somi honor ]
Syn. 4. SEEM, APPEAR, LOOK refer to an outward aspect that may or may not be contrary to reality. SEEM is applied to something that has an aspect of truth and probability: It seems warmer today. APPEAR suggests the giving of an impression that may be superficial or illusory: The house appears to be deserted. LOOK more vividly suggests the use of the eye (literally or figuratively) or the aspect as perceived by the eye: She looked very much frightened.