Meaning & Definition of word "Narrow"

Narrow

/ˈnɛr.oʊ/

noun:

  • 1. A narrow passage or route.
    • Example: The explorers found a narrow through the mountains that led to a hidden valley.

verb:

  • 1. To make or become narrow; to reduce in width or extent.
    • Example: The city plans to narrow the road to improve pedestrian safety.
  • 2. To limit or restrict (something) in scope or extent.
    • Example: They decided to narrow the choices down to just three finalists.

adjective:

  • 1. Limited in width; not wide.
    • Example: The street was so narrow that only one car could pass at a time.
  • 2. Not broad or wide in extent or scope.
    • Example: Her interests were quite narrow, focusing only on a few specific subjects.
  • 3. Tight or restricted in space.
    • Example: He squeezed through the narrow gap between the two buildings.

Etymology

Old English 'nearwe', related to 'narrow', possibly from Proto-Germanic.

Common Phrases and Expressions

narrow-minded:

Limited in perspective; unwilling to consider alternative ideas.

narrow escape:

A close call; nearly avoiding danger.

narrow down:

To reduce the scope or number of options.

narrow margin:

A small difference or distance separating two outcomes.

Related Words

narrowness:

The state or quality of being narrow.

narrowly:

In a limited manner; closely.

narrowing:

The process of making narrower.

Slang Meanings of narrow

Meaning: Tight situation

Example Sentence: He was in a narrow, having borrowed money.

Meaning: To be exclusive or selective

Example Sentence: They're narrow in their friends, only hanging out with a select few.