mean Definition
- 1intend to convey or refer to (a particular thing); signify
- 2unkind, spiteful, or unfair
- 3low 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
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.
Example
He has a mean streak and often bullies his classmates.
Example
Winning the championship two years in a row is no mean feat.
Origins of mean
from Old English 'mǣnan', meaning 'to mean, signify'
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.
