De

/deɪ/

Meaning & Definition

abbreviation
Short form for 'Doctor of Education'.
She holds a de in Educational Leadership.
Often used in online communication to denote 'definitely'.
I'll be there de latest by 3 PM.
preposition
A prefix or particle used in some languages (e.g., French, Spanish) indicating descent, possession, or separation.
L'homme de la maison est très sage.
Used in some languages to represent 'of' or 'from'.
El libro de Juan es interesante.
As part of compound words in various languages indicating a relationship.
Déjà vu is a French term meaning 'already seen'.

Etymology

From Latin 'de', meaning 'from' or 'down from'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

de facto
in fact, whether by right or not
de jure
by law
de novo
anew; from the beginning

Related Words

deduct
to take away from a total
degrade
to lower in dignity or quality
deconstruct
to analyze a concept or structure critically

Slang Meanings

To diminish or lessen in quality.
That performance really de'd the whole event.
To express disdain or belittlement.
Stop de-ing my efforts; I'm trying my best.