mean

[miːn]

mean Definition

• 1. intend to convey or refer to (a particular thing); signify
• 2. unkind, spiteful, or unfair
• 3. low in quality or inferior in condition; poor

Using mean: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mean" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  What do you mean by that?

• Example

  I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

• Example

  That's a mean thing to say.

• Example

  The mean temperature for the month was 20 degrees Celsius.

mean Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mean

• signify
• denote
• indicate
• imply
• represent

Antonyms for mean

• kind
• nice
• generous

Phrases with mean

• mean business

  to be serious about something and intend to take action

  Example

  The boss said he means business about finishing the project on time.

• mean streak

  a tendency to be unkind or cruel

  Example

  He has a mean streak and often bullies his classmates.

• no mean feat

  something that is difficult to achieve

  Example

  Winning the championship two years in a row is no mean feat.

Origins of mean

from Old English 'mǣnan', meaning 'to mean, signify'

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Summary: mean in Brief

The verb 'mean' [miːn] can refer to intending to convey or signify something, as in 'What do you mean by that?' It can also describe someone who is unkind or cruel, as in 'He has a mean streak.' Additionally, it can describe something of low quality or poor condition, as in 'The mean temperature for the month was 20 degrees Celsius.' Phrases like 'mean business' and 'no mean feat' extend the term's usage.