Appearing to be something, though not necessarily actually being that thing; apparent but possibly deceptive.
From 'seem' (to appear) + '-ing' (present participle). Seem comes from Old Norse 'soma' (to suit or befit), originally meaning to be fitting or appropriate, then shifted to 'appear.'
The word contains built-in skepticism—a 'seeming' advantage isn't guaranteed to be real. English speakers inherited from Norse ancestors a word that means 'looks like' but keeps doubt hidden inside it!
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