Meaning & Definition of word "Mess"

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.