Meaning & Definition of word "Mete"

Mete

/miːt/

verb:

  • 1. To distribute or apportion by measure; to give out, usually in a specific amount.
    • Example: The teacher decided to mete out the assignments evenly among all the students.
  • 2. To impose or administer, especially in relation to punishment.
    • Example: The judge was known to mete out harsh sentences to repeat offenders.
  • 3. To measure or allocate something, often in a careful or deliberate manner.
    • Example: They had to mete out the supplies carefully to ensure everyone had enough.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'meter', which means 'to put, place'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

mete out:

to give or distribute something, especially punishment.

mete justice:

to administer justice or punishment.

Related Words

measure:

to determine the size, amount, or degree of something.

distribute:

to give out or spread over a wide area.

Slang Meanings of mete

Meaning: to give out or distribute in a casual way

Example Sentence: He just meted out some advice to his friends without thinking.