Meaning & Definition of word "Mess"

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    Mess

    /mɛs/

    noun:

    • 1. A situation or condition that is confusing, chaotic, or full of problems.
      • Example: The office was a complete mess after the party.
    • 2. A dirty or untidy state.
      • Example: Her room is always a mess, with clothes scattered everywhere.
    • 3. A mixture of food, especially one that is not visually appealing.
      • Example: He served us a strange mess of vegetables and sauce.

    verb:

    • 1. To make a mess of; to dirty or disorder.
      • Example: Please don't mess the kitchen up while you're cooking.
    • 2. To damage or spoil something.
      • Example: He messed up the project by not following the instructions.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'mes', meaning 'a dish, food'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    make a mess:

    To create disorder or to cause something to be untidy.

    get in a mess:

    To become involved in a difficult or problematic situation.

    don’t mess with me:

    A warning not to provoke or bother someone.

    Related Words

    disorder:

    A state of confusion or lack of order.

    chaos:

    Complete disorder and confusion.

    clutter:

    A collection of things lying about in an untidy mass.

    Slang Meanings of mess

    Meaning: A situation that is problematic or embarrassing.

    Example Sentence: I really messed up that presentation.

    Meaning: To be intoxicated or under the influence.

    Example Sentence: He was such a mess last night at the bar.