up-and-comer
up-and-comer
UK[ˌʌp ən ˈkʌmə]US[ˌʌp ən ˈkʌmər]
n
a person who is making good progress and is likely to become successful.
Morpheme Breakdown
up
and
comer
up
and
comer
Etymology
the term "up-and-comer" is a modern english compound, originating in the early 20th century. it is built from three common english words: the directional adverb "up", the connective "and", and the agent noun "comer" from the verb "to come". the phrase "coming up" has long signified advancement or rising in status. by combining these elements into a hyphenated noun, the term creates a vivid image of a person actively "coming up" in the world, progressing towards success. it functions as a fixed idiom, where the literal sense of moving upward is metaphorically applied to social, professional, or economic advancement.
Analysis
Structure: up + and + comer
up (old english) - an adverb/particle indicating upward direction or increase.
and (old english) - a conjunction used to connect words or clauses.
comer (english) - a noun derived from the verb 'come', meaning one who comes or arrives.
Examples
the young actress is considered a real up-and-comer in hollywood.
the company is known for hiring ambitious up-and-comers straight out of college.
he was identified as an up-and-comer in the political scene years before his election.