mate

[meɪt]

mate Definition

  • 1a friend or companion
  • 2a sexual partner
  • 3a spouse or romantic partner

Using mate: Examples

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

  • Example

    He's been my best mate since childhood.

  • Example

    They were looking for a mate for their male dog.

  • Example

    She's my soul mate and we've been together for years.

mate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mate

Antonyms for mate

Idioms Using mate

  • to be a reliable and supportive friend or partner

    Example

    He's always there for me when I need him. He's a good mate.

  • pick up the check (or tab) / pay the mate

    to pay for a meal or drinks shared with friends or colleagues

    Example

    Don't worry about the bill, I'll pick up the check this time. Or, let's pay the mate and get out of here.

  • make (both) ends meet

    to have enough money to cover expenses

    Example

    It's tough to make ends meet on a minimum wage job.

Phrases with mate

  • a move in chess that puts the opponent's king in a position of being taken

    Example

    He won the game with a checkmate.

  • the officer on a commercial ship who is second in command to the captain

    Example

    The first mate is responsible for the safety of the crew and the cargo.

  • a candidate for political office who runs for election alongside the main candidate, typically for the position of vice president

    Example

    The presidential nominee announced his running mate for the upcoming election.

Origins of mate

from Middle Low German 'māt', meaning 'comrade'

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Summary: mate in Brief

The word 'mate' [meɪt] refers to a friend, companion, sexual partner, spouse, or romantic partner. It can also be used in phrases like 'checkmate' in chess, 'first mate' on a commercial ship, and 'running mate' in politics. Idioms include 'be a good mate,' meaning a reliable and supportive friend, 'pick up the check,' meaning to pay for a shared meal or drinks, and 'make ends meet,' meaning to have enough money to cover expenses.

How do native speakers use this expression?