Langimage
English

mean

|mean|

B1

/miːn/

convey intention

Etymology
Etymology Information

'mean' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'mǣnan,' where 'mǣnan' meant 'to intend or signify.'

Historical Evolution

'mǣnan' changed from Old English to the Middle English word 'mēnen' and eventually became the modern English word 'mean'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to intend or signify,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to convey an idea' and 'unkind.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the average value of a set of numbers.

The mean of the numbers 2, 3, and 4 is 3.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to convey or express a particular idea or concept.

What do you mean by that statement?

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Antonyms

Adjective 1

unkind or unpleasant in nature.

He was mean to his little sister.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35