mean

A2
Pronunciation
/miːn/
Noun
7 definition(s)
1 Definition

(now chiefly in the plural) A method or course of action used to achieve some result.

2 Definition

(in the singular) An intermediate step or intermediate steps.

3 Definition

Something which is intermediate or in the middle; an intermediate value or range of values; a medium.

4 Definition

The middle part of three-part polyphonic music; now specifically, the alto part in polyphonic music; an alto instrument.

5 Definition

The average of a set of values, calculated by summing them together and dividing by the number of terms; the arithmetic mean.

6 Definition

Any function of multiple variables that satisfies certain properties and yields a number representative of its arguments; or, the number so yielded; a measure of central tendency.

7 Definition

Either of the two numbers in the middle of a conventionally presented proportion, as 2 and 3 in 1:2=3:6.

Verb
6 definition(s)
1 Definition

To lament.

2 Definition

To intend.

3 Definition

To convey (a meaning).

4 Definition

To have conviction in (something said or expressed); to be sincere in (what one says).

Example Sentences
  • Does she really mean what she said to him last night?
5 Definition

To cause or produce (a given result); to bring about (a given result).

Example Sentences
  • One faltering step means certain death.
6 Definition

(usually with to) To be of some level of importance.

Example Sentences
  • Formality and titles mean nothing in their circle.
Adjective
14 definition(s)
1 Definition

Common; general.

2 Definition

Of a common or low origin, grade, or quality; common; humble.

Example Sentences
  • a man of mean parentage / a mean abode
3 Definition

Low in quality or degree; inferior; poor; shabby.

Example Sentences
  • a mean appearance / mean dress
4 Definition

Without dignity of mind; destitute of honour; low-minded; spiritless; base.

Example Sentences
  • a mean motive
5 Definition

Of little value or worth; worthy of little or no regard; contemptible; despicable.

6 Definition

Ungenerous; stingy; tight-fisted.

Example Sentences
  • He's so mean. I've never seen him spend so much as five pounds on presents for his children.
7 Definition

Disobliging; pettily offensive or unaccommodating

8 Definition

Selfish; acting without consideration of others; unkind.

Example Sentences
  • It was mean to steal the girl's piggy bank, but he just had to get uptown and he had no cash of his own.
9 Definition

Intending to cause harm, successfully or otherwise; bearing ill will towards another

Synonyms
cruel malicious
Example Sentences
  • Watch out for her, she's mean. I said good morning to her, and she punched me in the nose.
10 Definition

Powerful; fierce; strong

Synonyms
damaging harsh
Example Sentences
  • It must have been a mean typhoon that levelled this town.
11 Definition

Accomplished with great skill; deft; hard to compete with.

Example Sentences
  • He hits a mean backhand.
12 Definition

Difficult, tricky.

Example Sentences
  • This problem is mean!
13 Definition

Having the mean (see noun below) as its value.

14 Definition

Middling; intermediate; moderately good, tolerable.