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