Meaning & Definition
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Used before words that begin with a vowel sound, to indicate one of a kind or a single unit.
She adopted an orphaned puppy from the shelter.
Used before words that begin with a vowel sound, as a form of the indefinite article.
He wants to become an engineer.
Used to indicate any one of a group; similar to 'a' but used before vowel sounds.
Is there an apple on the table?
Etymology
Derived from the Old English 'ān', meaning 'one'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
an apple a day:
A phrase implying that eating healthily contributes to good health.
an arm and a leg:
Meaning something is very expensive.
Slang Meanings
A term used in informal speech for a person identified vaguely.
He's just an average guy.
Can be used to refer to a single item in a more casual way.
I'll take an of those, please.