Meaning & Definition of word "Near"

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    Near

    /nɪr/

    adjective:

    • 1. Close to someone or something.
      • Example: They are close friends and have a near relationship.
    • 2. Almost or nearly; approaching.
      • Example: The near future holds many opportunities.

    adverb:

    • 1. At or to a short distance away.
      • Example: The school is located near the park.
    • 2. Close in time or degree.
      • Example: The deadline is near, so we need to finish the project soon.
    • 3. In a nearby place.
      • Example: She lives near the beach.

    preposition:

    • 1. At a point that is close to.
      • Example: He stood near the entrance of the building.
    • 2. In proximity to.
      • Example: The store is near my house.

    Etymology

    Middle English nere, from Old English nēah; akin to Old High German nēh, Old Norse ná, and Latin prope.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    near and dear:

    Close and beloved.

    near miss:

    An incident where something almost happened.

    near the bone:

    Close to something distressing or offensive.

    near at hand:

    Close in terms of time or space.

    near enough:

    Sufficiently close to meet a requirement.

    Related Words

    nearness:

    The quality of being near.

    nearly:

    Almost; very close to a specified state.

    neighbour:

    A person living near another.

    Slang Meanings of near