Compline meaning

Compline is the final church service of the day, focusing on reflection and preparation for sleep.


Compline definitions

Word backwards enilpmoc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division com-pline
Plural The plural of the word "compline" is "complines."
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) o,i,e
Consonants (5) c,m,p,l,n

Compline is a traditional Christian bedtime service that dates back to the early church. It is a form of night prayer that offers a peaceful way to end the day and prepare for rest. The word "compline" comes from the Latin word "completorium," meaning completion.

The History of Compline

Compline has its roots in the monastic tradition, where monks would gather for prayer at the end of the day before retiring to bed. Over time, this practice spread to the wider church, becoming a beloved part of daily worship for many Christians.

The Structure of Compline

Compline typically includes psalms, prayers, and readings from scripture. It is a time of quiet reflection and contemplation, allowing for personal prayer and meditation. The service often ends with a benediction, offering blessings for the coming night.

The Purpose of Compline

One of the main purposes of Compline is to acknowledge the presence of God in our lives, even as we sleep. It is a way to surrender our cares and worries to God, trusting in His protection and guidance through the night. By ending the day with prayer, we can find peace and rest in God's presence.

Compline is often sung or chanted, creating a soothing and meditative atmosphere. Many churches offer Compline services in the evening, providing a sacred space for worshippers to come together in prayer and fellowship.

In our busy and hectic world, taking time for Compline can be a grounding and comforting practice. It allows us to pause, reflect, and connect with the divine before we rest. Whether said individually or in community, Compline offers a sense of closure and peace at the end of the day.

Overall, Compline is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that can enrich our spiritual lives and bring us closer to God. It is a gentle reminder of God's presence in all aspects of our lives, including the quiet moments of the night.


Compline Examples

  1. She recited compline every evening before going to bed.
  2. The monks gathered in the chapel for the singing of compline.
  3. Attending compline was a calming way to end the day.
  4. The compline service included prayers and hymns.
  5. After compline, the lights in the monastery were dimmed for the night.
  6. Compline traditionally marks the end of the monastic day.
  7. The ancient ritual of compline has been preserved in many religious communities.
  8. The sound of Gregorian chants echoed through the church during compline.
  9. Singing compline together created a sense of unity among the worshippers.
  10. The simplicity of the compline service brought a sense of peace to all who attended.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 17/06/2024 - 17:31:33