meaning

[ˈmiːnɪŋ]

meaning Definition

  • 1what is meant by a word, text, concept, or action
  • 2implied or explicit significance
  • 3purpose or intention

Using meaning: Examples

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

  • Example

    The meaning of this word is unclear.

  • Example

    What is the meaning of life?

  • Example

    The meaning behind her words was not lost on him.

  • Example

    The meaning of the painting is open to interpretation.

meaning Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using meaning

  • understand the significance or implication of something

    Example

    It took me a while to get the meaning of what she was saying.

  • be pointless or without significance

    Example

    His words seemed to have no meaning.

  • cease to have significance or relevance

    Example

    Over time, the song's lyrics have lost their original meaning.

Phrases with meaning

  • meaning of the word

    the definition or sense of a particular word

    Example

    I looked up the meaning of the word in the dictionary.

  • the purpose or significance of human existence

    Example

    Many philosophers have pondered the meaning of life.

  • double meaning

    a word or phrase that has two interpretations, often one of which is risqué or humorous

    Example

    The comedian's jokes were full of double meanings.

Origins of meaning

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

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Summary: meaning in Brief

The term 'meaning' [ˈmiːnɪŋ] refers to what is implied or intended by a word, text, concept, or action. It encompasses the significance or purpose of something, as in 'What is the meaning of life?' and 'The meaning behind her words was not lost on him.' 'Meaning' can also be used in phrases like 'double meaning,' and idioms like 'get the meaning of something,' indicating understanding, and 'have no meaning,' implying pointlessness.

How do native speakers use this expression?