a large amount or quantity of something, a coherent, typically large body of matter with no definite shape, the quantity of matter that a body contains, as measured by its acceleration under a given force or by the force exerted on it by a gravitational field

in the mass, mass hysteria, mass exodus

mass media, mass transit, mass production

Formal and Informal Expressions of mass

In different contexts, you can replace 'mass' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'quantity, magnitude' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'ton, load' is a commonplace synonym.

mass: Explore its Definition & Usage

mass Definition

1a large amount or quantity of something
2a coherent, typically large body of matter with no definite shape
3the quantity of matter that a body contains, as measured by its acceleration under a given force or by the force exerted on it by a gravitational field

Using mass: Examples

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

Example
There was a mass of people waiting outside the store.
Example
The asteroid was a massive chunk of rock.
Example
The mass of the object determines its weight.
Example
The mass of the crowd made it difficult to move.

mass Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for mass

Antonyms for mass

Idioms Using mass

in the mass
as a whole; collectively
Example
In the mass, the students were well-behaved.
mass hysteria
a condition in which a large group of people exhibit similar irrational behavior or emotions, often triggered by fear or panic
Example
The rumor caused mass hysteria among the population.
mass exodus
a situation in which a large number of people leave a place at the same time, often due to a crisis or disaster
Example
The war caused a mass exodus of refugees from the country.

Phrases with mass

mass media
the means of communication that reach large numbers of people in a short time, such as television, newspapers, magazines, and radio
Example
The story was covered by the mass media.
mass transit
public transportation systems that carry large numbers of passengers, such as buses, trains, and subways
Example
The city is investing in mass transit to reduce traffic congestion.
mass production
the manufacture of goods in large quantities, often using assembly line techniques
Example
The company uses mass production to keep costs low.

Origins of mass

from Old English 'mæsse', meaning 'religious service'

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Summary: mass in Brief

The term 'mass' [mæs] refers to a large amount or quantity of something, such as 'There was a mass of people waiting outside the store.' It can also refer to a large, coherent body of matter with no definite shape, like 'The asteroid was a massive chunk of rock.' Additionally, 'mass' is used to describe the quantity of matter that a body contains, as measured by its acceleration under a given force or by the force exerted on it by a gravitational field. Phrases like 'mass media,' 'mass transit,' and 'mass production' extend the term's usage into specific contexts.