May

/meɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The fifth month of the year in the Gregorian calendar.

Her birthday is in May.

modal verb

Used to express possibility or permission.

You may leave the table when you finish your meal.

Used to indicate a wish or hope.

May you have good fortune in your new job.

Used in a formal or polite request.

May I assist you with your luggage?

Used to indicate that something is allowed or permissible.

Students may submit their projects by Friday.

Middle English: from Old English ‘mæg’, of Germanic origin.

may I

a polite way to ask for permission.

may as well

used to suggest that it's reasonable to do something.

may the force be with you

a phrase expressing good wishes, especially in difficult situations.

might

used as the past tense of may, indicating a lesser degree of possibility.

permit

to allow someone to do something.