Langimage
English

mate

|mate|

B1

/meɪt/

companion

Etymology
Etymology Information

'mate' originates from Middle Low German, specifically the word 'gemate,' where 'ge-' meant 'together' and 'mate' meant 'food or meal.'

Historical Evolution

'gemate' transformed into the Old English word 'gemæta,' and eventually became the modern English word 'mate.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'one who eats with another,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'friend or companion.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a friend or companion.

He's my best mate from school.

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Antonyms

Noun 2

one of a pair, especially in animals.

The bird found its mate for the season.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to pair or join together, especially for breeding.

The animals mate during the spring.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to connect or join mechanically.

The parts are designed to mate perfectly.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/24 18:15