Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
Somerset Maugham

Somerset Maugham

2 7.5
An English writer of novels, short stories and plays known for clear prose
  • proper noun
: Somerset Maugham
  • Many consider Somerset Maugham one of the greatest English writers.

Examples

  • The works of Somerset Maugham continue to influence writers around the world.

  • Have you read any works by Somerset Maugham?

  • Somerset Maugham is often praised for his clear and unadorned prose style.

  • Many critics consider Somerset Maugham's 'Of Human Bondage' to be his masterpiece.

  • The play 'The Letter' was written by W. Somerset Maugham, showcasing his talent for drama.

  • Many literary scholars analyze the themes present in Somerset Maugham's works, particularly in 'Of Human Bondage'.

  • In his autobiography, Somerset Maugham reflects on his experiences as a writer and the influences on his storytelling.

Synonyms

W. Somerset Maugham
vsSomerset Maugham
  • Literature
1 8.4

An English writer famous for novels, short stories, and plays

uses the shorter name form without the initial

Surface Forms

Somerset Maugham main

Morphology

Somerset + Maugham

This is a personal name (a proper noun) rather than a compositional phrase; knowing 'Somerset' (a place) and the surname 'Maugham' does not allow a learner to infer that the phrase refers to an English novelist and playwright. Proper names are arbitrary and require cultural or encyclopedic knowledge, so the meaning is not derivable from the constituent words.

Etymology

Somerset Maugham was born William Somerset Maugham and used his middle name Somerset as his author name. He became famous for clear, simple stories about people's lives, such as 'Of Human Bondage', so when you see Somerset Maugham think of a writer known for honest, plain storytelling.