couple

"Couple" is a very common English word with a few closely related but distinct meanings. It can be a noun, a verb, or used like a determiner. Here are the most useful senses you will encounter.

1nountwo people in a relationship

When two people are romantically involved — dating, engaged, or married — you call them a couple. Think of it as two people who belong together as a pair.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The couple held hands as they walked through the park.

They have been a couple for three years before getting married.

The restaurant had a special table reserved for couples.

2nouna small number (around two)

In everyday speech, people use 'a couple' to mean 'a small number' — usually two, but sometimes just a few. It is a relaxed, informal way of saying 'not many'. For example, 'a couple of minutes' means just a short time.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

Can you wait a couple of minutes? I am almost ready.

I only had a couple of biscuits, so I am still hungry.

She called me a couple of times but I missed her calls.

3verbto connect or join two things together

When you couple two things, you physically or logically join them so they work together. Imagine connecting two train carriages — you are coupling them. This sense is common in technical or formal contexts.

technical / everyday language · Modern, widely used

The engineer coupled the two pipes together to complete the system.

The new device can be coupled with your smartphone for better control.

The trailer was carefully coupled to the back of the truck.

4verbfigurativeto combine one thing with another (figurative)

You can also use 'couple' figuratively to mean combining two ideas, qualities, or situations. The phrase 'coupled with' is very common — it means 'combined with' or 'together with'.

everyday language / writing · Modern, widely used · figurative

Her talent, coupled with hard work, made her very successful.

The cold weather, coupled with the heavy rain, made the journey difficult.

A good diet coupled with regular exercise will improve your health.