An

/æn/

Meaning & Definition

article
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.

Related Words

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.