Meaning & Definition of word "Mean"
to
Mean
/miːn/
noun:
- 1. the mathematical average of a set of values.
- Example: To find the mean of these numbers, add them together and divide by the total count.
verb:
- 1. to indicate or signify.
- Example: When I say 'leave now,' I mean you should go immediately.
- 2. to intend or have a purpose.
- Example: I mean to finish this project by next week.
adjective:
- 1. unkind or cruel.
- Example: That was a mean thing to say about her.
- 2. of average quality; not very good.
- Example: The food was just mean; I expected better.
Etymology
Old English 'mēnian', meaning 'to intend, signify'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
mean business:
To be serious about one's intentions.
mean the world to someone:
To be very important to someone.
in a mean way:
In a cruel or harsh manner.
Related Words
mean-spirited:
Having or showing a cruel or selfish disposition.
mean-spiritedness:
The quality of being mean-spirited.
meanness:
The state or quality of being mean; unkindness.
Slang Meanings of mean
Meaning: To be uncaring or rude.
Example Sentence: That was a mean thing to say.
Meaning: To be excellent or impressive.
Example Sentence: His performance was mean, really blew me away!