Part 13

lyricism noun [ U ]
the beautiful expression of personal thoughts and feelings in writing or music

The harshness of the book's subject is softened by a certain lyricism in the
writing.
lyricist noun [ C ]
someone who writes words for songs, especially pop songs
M noun LETTER
1. ( ALSO m ) the 13th letter of the English alphabet
M noun NUMBER
2. ( ALSO m ) [ C ] the sign used in the Roman system for the number 1000
M noun ROAD
3. [ U ] UK ABBREVIATION FOR motorway
The M4 goes from London to Bristol.
M adjective
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR medium (VALUE) : used on clothes to show that they are
of medium size
m noun AMOUNT
1. [ C ] WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR million
The new library cost £5m to build.
m noun LENGTH
2. [ C ] WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR metre (MEASUREMENT)
Jeff is 1.8 m tall.
She's the women's 1500 m champion (= the winner of a race run over that
distance) .
m noun DISTANCE
3. WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR mile
m adjective
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR male (SEX) (especially on forms)
'm short form of
am, used in spoken and informal written English
I'm sorry I'm late.
ma noun [ C ]
1. INFORMAL OLD-FASHIONED a mother
As my old ma used to say, you can't spend what you ain't got.
2. MAINLY US a title for an old woman
Ma Johnson always used to bake the best cookies.
MA noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Master of Arts
Julia Richards, MA
My brother has an MA in linguistics.
She's studying for/doing an MA in French literature.
ma'am noun [ as form of address ]
1. madam (WOMAN)
2. in some parts of the US, used as a polite way of talking to a woman
How can I help you, ma'am?
3. in Britain, used to address the Queen, or a woman of high rank in particular
organizations, such as the army or the police
4. in the past, used to talk to a woman of high social class
mac , mack noun [ C ] UK
a waterproof (= not allowing rain to pass through) coat
a plastic mac
lyricism noun [ U ]
the beautiful expression of personal thoughts and feelings in writing or music
The harshness of the book's subject is softened by a certain lyricism in the
writing.
lyricist noun [ C ]
someone who writes words for songs, especially pop songs
M noun LETTER
1. ( ALSO m ) the 13th letter of the English alphabet
M noun NUMBER
2. ( ALSO m ) [ C ] the sign used in the Roman system for the number 1000
M noun ROAD
3. [ U ] UK ABBREVIATION FOR motorway
The M4 goes from London to Bristol.
M adjective
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR medium (VALUE) : used on clothes to show that they are
of medium size
m noun AMOUNT
1. [ C ] WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR million
The new library cost £5m to build.
m noun LENGTH
2. [ C ] WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR metre (MEASUREMENT)
Jeff is 1.8 m tall.
She's the women's 1500 m champion (= the winner of a race run over that
distance) .
m noun DISTANCE
3. WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR mile
m adjective
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR male (SEX) (especially on forms)
'm short form of
am, used in spoken and informal written English
I'm sorry I'm late.
ma noun [ C ]
1. INFORMAL OLD-FASHIONED a mother
As my old ma used to say, you can't spend what you ain't got.
2. MAINLY US a title for an old woman
Ma Johnson always used to bake the best cookies.
MA noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Master of Arts
Julia Richards, MA
My brother has an MA in linguistics.
She's studying for/doing an MA in French literature.
ma'am noun [ as form of address ]
1. madam (WOMAN)
2. in some parts of the US, used as a polite way of talking to a woman
How can I help you, ma'am?
3. in Britain, used to address the Queen, or a woman of high rank in particular
organizations, such as the army or the police
4. in the past, used to talk to a woman of high social class
mac , mack noun [ C ] UK
a waterproof (= not allowing rain to pass through) coat
a plastic mac
Mac noun COMPUTER
1. [ C ] ( ALSO (Apple) Macintosh ) TRADEMARK a common type of computer
You can write up your report on the Mac.
Mac noun MAN
2. [ as form of address ] US INFORMAL used when speaking to a man whose name
you do not know
Hey, Mac, watch where you're going!
macabre adjective
describes something that is very strange and unpleasant because it is connected
with death or violence
Even the police were horrified at the macabre nature of the killings.
She has a rather macabre sense of humour.
macaroni noun [ U ]
a type of pasta in the shape of small tubes
maca ˌ roni ˈ cheese noun [ U ] UK ( US macaroni and cheese )
a dish made from macaroni and cheese sauce
macaroon noun [ C ]
a small light biscuit made from eggs, sugar and almonds or coconut
macaroon noun [ C ]
a small light biscuit made from eggs, sugar and almonds or coconut
macaw noun [ C ]
a brightly coloured bird of the parrot family found in Central and South America
macchiato noun [ C or U ]
strong coffee with warm milk that has bubbles in it, or a cup of this
mace noun SPICE
1. [ U ] a spice made from the dried shell of nutmeg
mace noun ROD
2. [ C ] a decorated rod that is carried by or put in front of particular public
officials as a symbol of their authority
Mace noun [ U ] TRADEMARK
a chemical in a container which, when sprayed into a person's face, causes their
eyes to sting and become full of tears
Macedonia noun [ U ] ( ALSO The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia )
See table of Geographical names .
Macedonian noun [ C ] , adjective
macerate verb [ I or T ] SPECIALIZED
to leave food in a liquid so that it absorbs the liquid and becomes soft, or to
become soft in this way
Mix together all the ingredients and leave them to macerate in the fridge
overnight.
Mach , noun [ U ]
a measurement of speed which is calculated by dividing the speed of an object,
often an aircraft, by the speed of sound
machete noun [ C ]
machete
a large knife with a wide blade, used for cutting trees and plants or as a weapon
machete noun [ C ]
machete
Machiavellian adjective
using clever but often dishonest methods which deceive people so that you can
win power or control
machinate , verb [ I or T ]
to make secret plans in order to get an advantage
machinations , plural noun
complicated and secret plans to get power or control
Despite a commitment to more open government, the public are still being kept in
the dark about the inner machinations of the Cabinet.
machine noun [ C ] PIECE OF EQUIPMENT
1. a piece of equipment with several moving parts which uses power to do a
particular type of work
Eggs are sorted into different sizes by a machine.
If I'm not home when you call, leave a message on the machine (= answering
machine) .
Don't forget to put the towels in the machine (= washing machine) before you go
out.
I got some chocolate from a vending machine.
machine noun [ C ] COMPUTER
2. SPECIALIZED a computer
You'll need a powerful machine for editing videos.
machine noun [ C ] VEHICLE
3. INFORMAL a vehicle, often a motorcycle
APPROVING That's a mean (= powerful) machine you've got there, Bill.
machine noun [ C ] GROUP OF PEOPLE
4. a group of people who control and organize something
Churchill's war machine
The party machine has swung into action with its preparation for the election.
It's now up to the government's propaganda machine to restore the prime
minister's image.
machine verb [ T ]
to stitch cloth with a sewing machine
I've almost finished making the curtains - I just have to machine the hem.
ma ˈ chine ˌ code noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a set of numbers that gives instructions to a computer
machete noun [ C ]
machete
Machiavellian adjective
using clever but often dishonest methods which deceive people so that you can
win power or control
machinate , verb [ I or T ]
to make secret plans in order to get an advantage
machinations , plural noun
complicated and secret plans to get power or control
Despite a commitment to more open government, the public are still being kept in
the dark about the inner machinations of the Cabinet.
machine noun [ C ] PIECE OF EQUIPMENT
1. a piece of equipment with several moving parts which uses power to do a
particular type of work
Eggs are sorted into different sizes by a machine.
If I'm not home when you call, leave a message on the machine (= answering
machine) .
Don't forget to put the towels in the machine (= washing machine) before you go
out.
I got some chocolate from a vending machine.
machine noun [ C ] COMPUTER
2. SPECIALIZED a computer
You'll need a powerful machine for editing videos.
machine noun [ C ] VEHICLE
3. INFORMAL a vehicle, often a motorcycle
APPROVING That's a mean (= powerful) machine you've got there, Bill.
machine noun [ C ] GROUP OF PEOPLE
4. a group of people who control and organize something
Churchill's war machine
The party machine has swung into action with its preparation for the election.
It's now up to the government's propaganda machine to restore the prime
minister's image.
machine verb [ T ]
to stitch cloth with a sewing machine
I've almost finished making the curtains - I just have to machine the hem.
ma ˈ chine ˌ code noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a set of numbers that gives instructions to a computer
ma ˈ chine ˌ gun noun [ C ]
an automatic gun which can fire a lot of bullets one after the other very quickly
Several journalists were caught in machine-gun fire .
machine-gun verb [ T ]
to shoot someone with a machine gun
The raiders machine-gunned everyone in the bank before escaping in a van.
machine-readable adjective SPECIALIZED
able to be understood by a computer
a machine-readable book/dictionary
machinery noun [ U ] MACHINES
1. a group of large machines or the parts of a machine which make it work
industrial/farm machinery
His hand was injured when he got it caught in the machinery.
machinery noun [ U ] PROCESS/ORGANIZATION
2. the structure and systems of an organization or process
bureaucratic/political/decision-making machinery
the machinery of government
ma ˈ chine ˌ tool noun [ C ]
a tool which uses power to cut and shape metal or other strong materials
The car industry uses machine tools for cutting car body parts.
ma ˌ chine trans ˈ lation noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the process of changing text from one language into another language using a
computer
machinist noun [ C ]
a person whose job is operating a machine
She works as a machinist in a clothing factory.
machismo noun [ U ] OFTEN DISAPPROVING
male behaviour which is strong and forceful and in which someone has very
traditional ideas about how men and women should behave
macho adjective INFORMAL MAINLY DISAPPROVING
behaving forcefully or showing no emotion in a way traditionally thought to be
typical of a man
He's too macho to admit he was hurt when his girlfriend left him.
I can't stand macho men.
macho adjective INFORMAL MAINLY DISAPPROVING
behaving forcefully or showing no emotion in a way traditionally thought to be
typical of a man
He's too macho to admit he was hurt when his girlfriend left him.
I can't stand macho men.
Macintosh noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a Mac
mackerel noun [ C or U ]
a sea fish that can be eaten and which has a strong taste
smoked mackerel
mackintosh noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED
a mac (= a coat that does not let rain through)
macramé noun [ U ]
the art of weaving pieces of string together in knots to form a decorative pattern,
or something made this way
a macramé wall-hanging
macro- prefix
large; relating to the whole of something, rather than its parts
macroscopic (= large enough to be seen by the human eye)
macroeconomics (= the study of financial systems at a national level)
Compare micro-
macro noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a single instruction given to a computer which produces a set of instructions for
the computer to perform a particular piece of work
I've created a macro to spell check all the files at the same time.
macrobiotic adjective
describes food that is arranged into groups according to special principles, grown
without chemicals, and is thought to be very healthy
A macrobiotic diet consists mainly of whole grains and certain kinds of vegetables.
macrocosm noun [ C ]
1. any large organized system considered as a whole, rather than as a group of
smaller systems
Compare microcosm
2. the macrocosm
the universe
macroeconomics noun [ U ]
the study of financial systems at a national level
macroeconomics noun [ U ]
the study of financial systems at a national level
mad adjective MENTALLY ILL
1. OFFENSIVE mentally ill, or unable to behave in a reasonable way; insane
I think I must be going mad.
Do I look like some mad old woman in this hat?
See also madhouse ; madman
mad adjective SILLY
2. MAINLY UK INFORMAL extremely silly or stupid; crazy
[ + to infinitive ] You're mad to walk home alone at this time of night.
He must be mad spending all that money on a coat.
Some of the things she does are completely mad.
See also madcap
mad adjective ANGRY
3. [ after verb ] INFORMAL very angry or annoyed
He's always complaining and it makes me so mad.
MAINLY US Are you still mad at me?
MAINLY UK Kerry got really mad with Richard for not doing the washing up.
Bill's untidiness drives me mad.
mad adjective HURRYING
4. [ before noun ] hurrying or excited and not having time to think or plan
We made a mad dash for the train.
I was in a mad panic/rush trying to get everything ready.
mad adjective ENTHUSIASTIC
5. be mad about sb/sth INFORMAL
to love someone or something
He's the first real boyfriend she's had and she's mad about him.
He's mad about football.
6. be mad for sb/sth UK INFORMAL
to want someone or something very much, or to be very interested in them
Everyone's mad for him and I just don't see the attraction.
(as) mad as a hatter/March hare
extremely silly or stupid
Don't get mad, get even.
something that you say in order to tell someone not to be angry when someone
has upset them, but to do something that will upset them as much
This is my advice to wives whose husbands have left them for a younger woman -
don't get mad, get even!
like mad INFORMAL
If you do something like mad, you do it very enthusiastically, quickly or a lot
She's been saving like mad because she wants to buy a car.
-mad suffix UK
-mad suffix UK
car-/clothes-/sex-, etc. mad

extremely interested in cars/clothes/sex, etc
She's sixteen and clothes-mad.
Madagascar noun [ U ]
madam noun WOMAN
1. ( USUALLY Madam ) [ S ] a formal and polite way of speaking to a woman
[ as form of address ] May I carry your cases for you, Madam?
2. Dear Madam
the usual way of beginning a formal letter to a woman whose name you do not
know
3. [ S ] DISAPPROVING a young girl who behaves like an older woman, expecting

others to obey her
She's turning into a proper little madam.
madam noun SEX
4. [ C ] a woman who is in charge of a group of prostitutes who live or work in the

same house
madcap adjective [ before noun ] OLD-FASHIONED
describes mad behaviour or a plan which is very silly and unlikely to succeed
the madcap antics of the clowns
ˌ mad ˈ cow dis ˌ ease noun [ U ] UK INFORMAL
another name for BSE
madden verb [ T ]
to make someone very angry or annoyed
It maddens me to see how unfairly Jon has been treated.
maddened adjective LITERARY
He was standing in the path of the maddened bull.
maddening adjective
making you angry
She has a maddening habit of interrupting me when I'm talking to her.
maddeningly adverb
made verb
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF make
He was wearing a suit made from pure silk.
The house was made of wood with an iron roof.
have (got) it made INFORMAL
to be certain to be successful and have a good life, often without much effort
With his father at the head of the firm, he's got it made.
car-/clothes-/sex-, etc. mad

extremely interested in cars/clothes/sex, etc
She's sixteen and clothes-mad.
-made suffix
produced in the stated way or place
On the bottom of the watch it said 'Swiss-made'.
made-to-measure adjective
made specially to fit a particular person, room, etc
made-to-measure curtains
made-up adjective APPEARANCE
1. [ after verb ] wearing make-up
She's always very heavily made-up (= wearing a lot of make-up) .
See make-up
made-up adjective INVENTED
2. [ before noun ] describes a story or report that has been invented and is untrue
made-up stories
made-up adjective HAPPY
3. [ after verb ] NORTHERN INFORMAL very happy about something good which has
happened
I was made-up when she offered me the job.
madhouse noun
1. [ S ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING a place where there is no order and control
With four small children running around, the place is a madhouse.
He called the government's policy 'the economics of the madhouse'.
2. [ C ] OLD USE a mental hospital
madly adverb QUICKLY
1. If you do something madly, you do it very quickly because you have little time
I was rushing around madly tidying up the flat before they arrived.
madly adverb ENTHUSIASTICALLY
2. with a lot of energy and enthusiasm
We cheered madly as the team came out onto the field.
She's madly (= extremely) in love with David.
madman , noun [ C ] STRANGE/DANGEROUS MAN
1. DISAPPROVING a man who behaves in a very strange and uncontrolled or
dangerous way
I drove like a madman to get there in time.
madman , noun [ C ] MENTALLY ILL
2. OLD USE OR OFFENSIVE a man who is mentally ill
madman , noun [ C ] STRANGE/DANGEROUS MAN
1. DISAPPROVING a man who behaves in a very strange and uncontrolled or
dangerous way
I drove like a madman to get there in time.
madman , noun [ C ] MENTALLY ILL
2. OLD USE OR OFFENSIVE a man who is mentally ill
madness noun [ U ] STUPID BEHAVIOUR
1. stupid or dangerous behaviour
To begin a war would be sheer madness.
madness noun [ U ] MENTAL ILLNESS
2. the state of being mentally ill, or unable to behave in a reasonable way
She felt as if she were sliding into madness.
Madonna noun
1. the Ma ˈ donna
[ S ] Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ
a picture of the Madonna
2. [ C ] a picture or statue that represents Mary
madrasa , ALSO madrasah noun [ C ]
a school where people go to learn about the religion of Islam
madrigal noun [ C ]
a song performed without musical instruments in which several singers sing
different notes at the same time
madwoman noun [ C ] STRANGE WOMAN
1. DISAPPROVING a woman who behaves in a very strange and uncontrolled or
dangerous way
madwoman noun [ C ] MENTALLY ILL
2. OLD USE OR OFFENSIVE a woman who is mentally ill
maelstrom noun SITUATION
1. [ C usually singular ] a situation in which there is great confusion, violence and
destruction
The country is gradually being sucked into the maelstrom of civil war.
maelstrom noun WATER
2. [ C ] an area of water which moves with a very strong circular movement and
sucks in anything that goes past
maestro noun [ C ]
a man who is very skilled at playing or conducting (= directing the performance
of) music
maestro noun [ C ]
a man who is very skilled at playing or conducting (= directing the performance
of) music
mafia noun [ + sing/pl verb ]
1. the Mafia
a criminal organization which began in Sicily and is active in Italy and the US
2. [ C ] a close group of people who are involved in similar activities and who help
and protect each other, sometimes to the disadvantage of others
mafioso noun [ C ]
a member of the Mafia
magazine noun [ C ] BOOK
magazine
1. ( INFORMAL mag ) a type of thin book with large pages and a paper cover which
contains articles and photographs and is published every week or month
She has written articles for several women's magazines.
a glossy magazine
men's mags
a magazine rack
magazine noun [ C ] GUN PART
2. a part of a gun in which cartridges are stored, or a building in which explosives,
weapons and supplies are kept
magenta adjective
of a dark reddish purple colour
maggot noun [ C ]
a creature like a very small worm which later develops into a fly and is found in
decaying meat and other foods
the Magi plural noun
in the Bible, the three men, thought to be kings or astrologers , who followed a
star to visit Jesus Christ when he was a baby and give him presents. They are also
called the Three Kings or the Three Wise Men.
magic noun [ U ] SPECIAL POWER
1. the use of special powers to make things happen which would usually be
impossible, such as in stories for children
The group are known for their belief in witchcraft and magic.
As if by magic/ Like magic, the car changes into a boat when it hits the water.
2. the skill of performing tricks to entertain people, such as making things appear
and disappear and pretending to cut someone in half
He's a comedian who also does magic.
magic noun [ U ] SPECIAL QUALITY
3. a special and exciting quality that makes something seem different from
ordinary things
Although the film was made fifty years ago, it has lost none of its magic.
No one could fail to be charmed by the magic of this beautiful city.
magic adjective
1. with special powers
The witch put a magic spell on the prince and turned him into a frog.
I'll show you a magic trick .
2. happening in an unusual or unexpected way, or easily or quickly
There's no magic solution to the problem.
There's no magic formula for winning - just lots of hard work.
a magic touch
a special ability to do something very well
The film's great success will no doubt please the 46-year-old director, who was
rumoured to have lost his magic touch.
magic exclamation UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
used when you think something is very good and you like it a lot
"Kate's having a party on Saturday night." "Magic!"
magic noun [ U ] SPECIAL POWER
1. the use of special powers to make things happen which would usually be
impossible, such as in stories for children
The group are known for their belief in witchcraft and magic.
As if by magic/ Like magic, the car changes into a boat when it hits the water.
2. the skill of performing tricks to entertain people, such as making things appear
and disappear and pretending to cut someone in half
He's a comedian who also does magic.
magic noun [ U ] SPECIAL QUALITY
3. a special and exciting quality that makes something seem different from
ordinary things
Although the film was made fifty years ago, it has lost none of its magic.
No one could fail to be charmed by the magic of this beautiful city.
magic adjective
1. with special powers
The witch put a magic spell on the prince and turned him into a frog.
I'll show you a magic trick .
2. happening in an unusual or unexpected way, or easily or quickly
There's no magic solution to the problem.
There's no magic formula for winning - just lots of hard work.
a magic touch
a special ability to do something very well
The film's great success will no doubt please the 46-year-old director, who was
rumoured to have lost his magic touch.
magic exclamation UK OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
used when you think something is very good and you like it a lot
"Kate's having a party on Saturday night." "Magic!"
magical adjective OF MAGIC
1. produced by or using magic
Diamonds were once thought to have magical powers .
magical adjective SPECIAL/EXCITING
2. describes something with a special and exciting quality
We walked home arm-in-arm in the magical moonlight.
magically adverb
ˌ magic ˈ carpet noun [ C ]
in children's stories, a special carpet that you can sit on as it flies through the air
magician noun [ C ]
a person who has magic powers in stories, or who performs tricks for
entertainment
Merlin was the magician in the stories of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round
Table.
There'll be a magician at the kids' Christmas party.
ˌ magic ˈ wand noun [ C ]
1. a small stick used by people who perform tricks for entertainment
He waved his magic wand and a rabbit appeared.
2. a quick and easy solution
She warned that she had no magic wand to solve the problem.
ˌ magic ˈ word noun [ C usually singular ]
a word said by someone performing a trick to help it work successfully
I'll just say the magic word and the rabbit will disappear - Abracadabra!
What's the magic word?
said to a child who has not said 'please' when asking for something
"Can I have another chocolate?" "What's the magic word?" "Please."
magisterial adjective FORMAL
having or seeming to have complete authority
his magisterial presence
Jenkins's magisterial biography of Gladstone
magisterial adjective FORMAL
having or seeming to have complete authority
his magisterial presence
Jenkins's magisterial biography of Gladstone
magistracy noun SPECIALIZED
1. [ U ] the position of being a magistrate
2. the magistracy
[ S + singular or plural verb ] magistrates considered as a group
magistrate , noun [ C ]
a person who acts as a judge in a law court that deals with crimes that are not
serious
He will appear before the magistrates tomorrow.
Greenway appeared at Bow Street Magistrates' Court to face seven charges of
accepting bribes.
magma noun [ U ]
hot liquid rock found just below the surface of the Earth
magnanimous adjective FORMAL
very kind and generous towards an enemy or someone you have defeated
Arsenal's manager was magnanimous in victory, and praised the losing team.
magnanimity noun [ U ]
magnanimously adverb
"The best man won," he said, magnanimously conceding defeat.
magnate noun [ C ]
a person who is very rich and successful in business or industry
a well-known shipping magnate
magnesia noun [ U ]
a white substance used in stomach medicines
magnesium noun [ U ]
a silver-white metal element that burns very brightly and is used in making
fireworks
magnet noun [ C ] OBJECT
magnet
1. an object that is able both to attract iron and steel objects and also push them
away
magnet noun [ C ] ATTRACTION
2. a person, place or thing that other people feel strongly attracted to
The United States has always acted as a magnet for people seeking fame and
fortune.
magnet noun [ C ] OBJECT
magnet
1. an object that is able both to attract iron and steel objects and also push them
away
magnet noun [ C ] ATTRACTION
2. a person, place or thing that other people feel strongly attracted to
The United States has always acted as a magnet for people seeking fame and
fortune.
magnetic adjective OBJECT
1. with the power of a magnet
magnetic adjective ATTRACTIVE
2. describes someone whose personality attracts a lot of people
mag ˌ netic ˈ field noun [ C ]
an area around a magnet or something magnetic, in which its power to attract
objects to itself can be felt
mag ˌ netic ˈ head noun [ C ]
a head (DEVICE)
mag ˌ netic ˈ north/ ˈ south noun [ U ]
the direction towards north/south which the pointer of a compass shows
mag ˌ netic ˈ pole noun [ C ]
a point on the Earth near the North pole or the South pole which the pointer of a
compass shows as north or south
mag ˌ netic ˈ resonance ˌ imaging noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
MRI
mag ˌ netic ˈ tape noun [ U ]
a plastic strip covered with a magnetic substance on which sound, images or
computer information can be recorded
magnetism noun [ U ] ATTRACTIVE QUALITY
1. a quality that makes someone very attractive to other people
The actress has a personal magnetism that is rare in someone so young.
magnetism noun [ U ] OBJECT
2. the power of being able to attract iron and steel objects and also push them
away
magnetize , UK USUALLY magnetise verb [ T ]
to make an object magnetic
Each worker has to carry a magnetized plastic entry card.
magnetize , UK USUALLY magnetise verb [ T ]
to make an object magnetic
Each worker has to carry a magnetized plastic entry card.
magnification noun [ U ]
the process of making something look bigger than it is, for example by using a
magnifying glass
Magnification of the leaf allows us to see it in detail.
These binoculars have x10 magnification (= they magnify 10 times) .
magnificent adjective
very good, beautiful or deserving to be admired
a magnificent view
a magnificent piece of writing
They live in a magnificent Tudor house.
magnificence noun [ U ]
the splendour and magnificence of the pyramids
magnificently adverb
I thought she coped magnificently.
magnify verb [ T ]
1. to make something look larger than it is, especially by looking at it through a
specially cut piece of glass
Although our skin looks smooth, when magnified it is full of bumps and holes.
2. DISAPPROVING to make a problem bigger and more important than it really is
The hot summer magnified the racial tensions in the community.
ˈ magnifying ˌ glass noun [ C ]
magnifying glass
a piece of curved glass which makes objects look larger than they are
He uses a magnifying glass to read tiny print.
magnitude noun [ U ]
the large size or importance of something
They don't seem to grasp the magnitude of the problem .
magnitude noun [ U ]
the large size or importance of something
They don't seem to grasp the magnitude of the problem .
magnolia noun TREE
1. [ C ] a type of tree with large, usually white or pink flowers
magnolia noun COLOUR
2. [ U ] UK a pale cream colour
magnum noun [ C ] WINE
1. 1.5 litres of wine, or a bottle containing this
She won a magnum of champagne .
magnum noun [ C ] GUN
2. TRADEMARK a type of gun with bullets which are fired with more power than is
usual for a gun of that size
ˌ magnum ˈ opus noun [ S ] FORMAL
the most important piece of work done by a writer or artist
Picasso's Guernica is considered by many to be his magnum opus.
magpie noun [ C ]
1. a bird with black and white feathers and a long tail
Magpies are attracted to small shiny objects which they carry away to their nests.
2. someone who likes to collect many different types of objects, or use many
different styles
maharaja , ALSO maharajah noun [ C ]
in the past, the male ruler of an Indian state
maharani noun [ C ]
a female maharaja or the wife of a maharaja
mah-jong , ALSO mah-jongg noun [ U ]
a Chinese game in which players pick up and put down small painted pieces of
wood or other material until they have the combination they want in order to win
mahogany noun [ U ]
a dark red-brown wood used to make furniture
a handsome mahogany desk.
mahogany noun [ U ]
maid noun [ C ] SERVANT
1. a woman who works as a servant in a hotel or in someone's home
In the beach resort, the apartments and villas have daily maid service .
In California many illegal immigrants work as maids, nannies and gardeners.
maid noun [ C ] GIRL
2. OLD USE a girl or young woman who is not married, or has not had sex
maiden noun [ C ] WOMAN
1. LITERARY a girl or young woman
In the story, the prince woos and wins the fair maiden.
maiden noun [ C ] CRICKET
2. ( ALSO maiden over ) an over in cricket in which no runs are scored
maiden adjective [ before noun ]
of or about the first of its type
The Titanic sank on her maiden voyage .
ˌ maiden ˈ aunt noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
an aunt who is not married and is no longer young
maidenhead noun [ U ] OLD USE OR LITERARY
a woman's virginity
ˈ maiden ˌ name noun [ C ]
A woman's maiden name is the family name she has before she gets married.
ˌ maiden ˈ speech noun [ C ]
the first formal speech made by a British Member of Parliament in the House of
Commons or by a member of the House of Lords
ˌ maid of ˈ honour noun [ C ] MAINLY US
the most important bridesmaid at a marriage ceremony
mahogany noun [ U ]
maid noun [ C ] SERVANT
1. a woman who works as a servant in a hotel or in someone's home
In the beach resort, the apartments and villas have daily maid service .
In California many illegal immigrants work as maids, nannies and gardeners.
maid noun [ C ] GIRL
2. OLD USE a girl or young woman who is not married, or has not had sex
maiden noun [ C ] WOMAN
1. LITERARY a girl or young woman
In the story, the prince woos and wins the fair maiden.
maiden noun [ C ] CRICKET
2. ( ALSO maiden over ) an over in cricket in which no runs are scored
maiden adjective [ before noun ]
of or about the first of its type
The Titanic sank on her maiden voyage .
ˌ maiden ˈ aunt noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
an aunt who is not married and is no longer young
maidenhead noun [ U ] OLD USE OR LITERARY
a woman's virginity
ˈ maiden ˌ name noun [ C ]
A woman's maiden name is the family name she has before she gets married.
ˌ maiden ˈ speech noun [ C ]
the first formal speech made by a British Member of Parliament in the House of
Commons or by a member of the House of Lords
ˌ maid of ˈ honour noun [ C ] MAINLY US
the most important bridesmaid at a marriage ceremony
mail noun POST
1. [ S or U ] ( MAINLY UK post ) the letters and parcels which are sent by post, or
the postal system itself
She spent the morning reading and answering her mail.
All of our customers will be contacted by mail.
The book came in yesterday's mail.
Some strange things get sent through the mail.
mail noun COVERING
2. [ U ] chain mail
mail verb [ T ] MAINLY US ( MAINLY UK post )
to send a letter or parcel or email something
She mailed it last week but it still hasn't arrived.
[ + two objects ] I promised to mail him the article/mail the article to him.
Mail noun
used in the name of some newspapers
the Daily Mail
the Hull Mail
Mail noun
used in the name of some newspapers
the Daily Mail
the Hull Mail
mailbag noun
1. [ C ] ( UK ALSO postbag ) a large strong bag used by the post office for
transporting and carrying letters and parcels
2. [ C usually singular ] the number of letters received at one time or on one
subject
Since the controversial programme was broadcast, the BBC's mailbag has been
bulging.
mailbox noun [ C ]
in the US, a box outside a person's house where letters are put, or a postbox
ˈ mail ˌ carrier noun [ C ] ( ALSO letter carrier )
US FOR postman
Mailgram noun [ C ]
US TRADEMARK FOR Telemessage
ˈ mailing ˌ list noun [ C usually singular ]
a list of names and addresses kept by an organization so that it can send
information and advertisements to the people on the list
I asked to be put on their mailing list.
mailman noun [ C ] ( ALSO mail carrier )
US FOR postman
ˈ mail ˌ merge noun [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED
the use of a computer to produce many copies of a letter, each copy with a
different name and address stored on file, or a computer program that does this
ˈ mail ˌ order noun [ U ]
a way of buying goods in which you choose what you want, usually from a
catalogue , and it is sent to you
I often buy clothes by mail order.
a mail-order catalogue/company
mailshot noun [ C ] MAINLY UK ( US USUALLY mass mailing )
the posting of advertising or similar material to a lot of people at one time
ˈ mail ˌ slot noun [ C ] US ( UK letterbox )
a rectangular hole in the door or in a wall near the entrance of a house or other
building, through which letters, etc. are put
maim verb [ I or T ]
to injure a person so severely that a part of their body will no longer work as it
should
Many children have been maimed for life by these bombs.
main adjective [ before noun ]
larger, more important, or having more influence than others of the same type
The main thing is not to worry.
One of the main reasons I came to England was to study the language.
You'll find the main points of my proposal in the report.
Our main aim/objective is to improve the company's productivity.
The main problem in the health service is lack of resources.
My main concern about moving to London is the cost of housing.
be sb's main squeeze US INFORMAL
to be the person that someone has a romantic or sexual relationship with
main noun PIPE
1. [ C ] a large pipe which carries water or gas, or a wire carrying electricity, from
one place to another, to which a house can be connected
a gas main
The severe cold caused a water main to burst and flood the street.
2. mains
[ plural ] UK the system of pipes or wires which carry water or electricity into a
house, or the pipes which carry sewage away from a house
The house isn't on the mains.
They bought a house with no mains supply .
mains electricity
3. the mains
UK the place at which outside pipes or wires carrying water, electricity, etc.
connect with the system inside a house or building
Switch off the electricity at the mains before starting work.
main noun MOSTLY
4. in the main
generally or mostly
Her friends are teachers in the main.
ˈ main ˌ course noun [ C ]
the largest or most important part of a meal in which there are different parts
served separately
I had salmon for my main course.
ˈ mail ˌ slot noun [ C ] US ( UK letterbox )
a rectangular hole in the door or in a wall near the entrance of a house or other
building, through which letters, etc. are put
maim verb [ I or T ]
to injure a person so severely that a part of their body will no longer work as it
should
Many children have been maimed for life by these bombs.
main adjective [ before noun ]
larger, more important, or having more influence than others of the same type
The main thing is not to worry.
One of the main reasons I came to England was to study the language.
You'll find the main points of my proposal in the report.
Our main aim/objective is to improve the company's productivity.
The main problem in the health service is lack of resources.
My main concern about moving to London is the cost of housing.
be sb's main squeeze US INFORMAL
to be the person that someone has a romantic or sexual relationship with
main noun PIPE
1. [ C ] a large pipe which carries water or gas, or a wire carrying electricity, from
one place to another, to which a house can be connected
a gas main
The severe cold caused a water main to burst and flood the street.
2. mains
[ plural ] UK the system of pipes or wires which carry water or electricity into a
house, or the pipes which carry sewage away from a house
The house isn't on the mains.
They bought a house with no mains supply .
mains electricity
3. the mains
UK the place at which outside pipes or wires carrying water, electricity, etc.
connect with the system inside a house or building
Switch off the electricity at the mains before starting work.
main noun MOSTLY
4. in the main
generally or mostly
Her friends are teachers in the main.
ˈ main ˌ course noun [ C ]
the largest or most important part of a meal in which there are different parts
served separately
I had salmon for my main course.
ˌ main ˈ drag noun [ C usually singular ] US INFORMAL
the largest or most important road in a town
There's a great little restaurant just off the main drag.
mainframe noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a very large powerful computer with a lot of memory which many people can use
at the same time
the mainland noun [ S ]
the main part of a country or continent, not including the islands around it
He lives on an island off Scotland, but travels to the mainland once a month.
mainland adjective [ before noun ]
mainland Europe
mainline adjective COMMON
1. USUALLY US involving beliefs, methods, etc. which are most common
mainline churches
the rivalry between catalog companies and mainline stores
mainline adjective RAILWAY
2. relating to an important railway route between large towns or cities
Three mainline railway stations were closed because of bomb threats.
mainline verb [ I or T ]
INFORMAL to inject (= put into the body through a needle) drugs directly into the
blood
Several of her friends were mainlining heroin.
By now she was mainlining.
ˌ main ˈ line noun [ C ]
an important railway route between large towns or cities
the main line between Belfast and Dublin
mainly adverb
usually or to a large degree
I mainly go to bed around midnight.
The group is made up of mainly young people.
They argued that the tax will mainly benefit the rich.
ˌ main ˈ road noun [ C ]
a large road which goes from one town to another
Stick to the main roads and you won't get lost.
They live on the main road out of town.
mainspring noun [ C usually singular ] FORMAL
the most important reason for something; the thing that makes something else
happen
Work was the mainspring of his life.
mainstay noun
the mainstay of sth
the most important part of something, providing support for everything else
Cattle farming is the mainstay of the country's ecomony.
The white blouse will be the mainstay of your wardrobe this summer.
mainstream adjective
considered normal, and having or using ideas, beliefs, etc which are accepted by
most people
This is the director's first mainstream Hollywood film.
mainstream noun
the mainstream
the way of life or set of beliefs accepted by most people
The new law should allow more disabled people to enter the mainstream of
American life.
mainstream verb [ T ]
US to teach children with physical or mental problems in the same class as
children without problems
ˌ main ˈ street noun [ C ]
US FOR high street
mainly adverb
usually or to a large degree
I mainly go to bed around midnight.
The group is made up of mainly young people.
They argued that the tax will mainly benefit the rich.
ˌ main ˈ road noun [ C ]
a large road which goes from one town to another
Stick to the main roads and you won't get lost.
They live on the main road out of town.
mainspring noun [ C usually singular ] FORMAL
the most important reason for something; the thing that makes something else
happen
Work was the mainspring of his life.
mainstay noun
the mainstay of sth
the most important part of something, providing support for everything else
Cattle farming is the mainstay of the country's ecomony.
The white blouse will be the mainstay of your wardrobe this summer.
mainstream adjective
considered normal, and having or using ideas, beliefs, etc which are accepted by
most people
This is the director's first mainstream Hollywood film.
mainstream noun
the mainstream
the way of life or set of beliefs accepted by most people
The new law should allow more disabled people to enter the mainstream of
American life.
mainstream verb [ T ]
US to teach children with physical or mental problems in the same class as
children without problems
ˌ main ˈ street noun [ C ]
US FOR high street
maintain verb [ T ] CONTINUE TO HAVE
1. to continue to have; to keep in existence, or not allow to become less
The army has been brought in to maintain order in the region.
We have standards to maintain.
Despite living in different countries, the two families have maintained close links .
The film has maintained its position as the critics' favourite for another year.
maintain verb [ T ] KEEP IN GOOD CONDITION
2. to keep a road, machine, building, etc. in good condition
A large house costs a lot to maintain.
The roads around the town have been very poorly maintained.
maintain verb [ T ] EXPRESS
3. to express firmly your belief that something is true
Throughout his prison sentence Dunn has always maintained his innocence .
[ + that ] He maintains that he has never seen the woman before.
maintain verb [ T ] PROVIDE
4. to provide someone with food and whatever is necessary for them to live on
They barely earn enough to maintain themselves and their four children.
maintenance noun [ U ] WORK
1. the work needed to keep a road, building, machine, etc. in good condition
Old houses need a lot of maintenance.
There are thorough maintenance checks on each plane before take-off.
The magazine offers tips on cutting your house maintenance costs.
maintenance noun [ U ] MONEY
2. money that a person must pay regularly by law in order to support their child
or previous marriage partner after a divorce (= official end to a marriage)
He refused to pay maintenance for his three children.
maintenance noun [ U ] CONTINUE TO HAVE
3. when something continues to exist or is not allowed to become less
the maintenance of living standards
ˈ maintenance ˌ order noun [ C ] UK
an order made by a court of law that a person must pay maintenance
ˌ main ˈ verb noun [ C ]
in a clause, the verb that contains the meaning, compared with any auxiliary
verbs that go with it
In 'I should have been studying', 'studying' is the main verb.
maisonette noun [ C ] UK
a small apartment on two levels which is part of a larger building but has its own
entrance
maitre d' (hotel) noun [ C ] FORMAL
the person in charge of a restaurant or of the people who bring food to your table
in a restaurant
maize noun [ U ] UK ( US corn )
a tall plant grown in many parts of the world for its yellow seeds which are eaten
as food, made into flour or fed to animals
majestic adjective
beautiful, powerful or causing great admiration and respect
The majestic Montana scenery will leave you breathless.
majestically adverb
The white cliffs rise majestically from the sea.
Majesty noun [ C ]
the title used to speak to or about a king or queen
I was invited to tea with Her Majesty the Queen.
their Majesties, the King and Queen of Spain
[ as form of address ] The performance begins at 8.30, (Your) Majesty.
majesty noun [ U ]
If something has majesty, it causes admiration and respect for its beauty
This music has majesty, power and passion.
The photograph captures the sunset in all its majesty.
ˈ maintenance ˌ order noun [ C ] UK
an order made by a court of law that a person must pay maintenance
ˌ main ˈ verb noun [ C ]
in a clause, the verb that contains the meaning, compared with any auxiliary
verbs that go with it
In 'I should have been studying', 'studying' is the main verb.
maisonette noun [ C ] UK
a small apartment on two levels which is part of a larger building but has its own
entrance
maitre d' (hotel) noun [ C ] FORMAL
the person in charge of a restaurant or of the people who bring food to your table
in a restaurant
maize noun [ U ] UK ( US corn )
a tall plant grown in many parts of the world for its yellow seeds which are eaten
as food, made into flour or fed to animals
majestic adjective
beautiful, powerful or causing great admiration and respect
The majestic Montana scenery will leave you breathless.
majestically adverb
The white cliffs rise majestically from the sea.
Majesty noun [ C ]
the title used to speak to or about a king or queen
I was invited to tea with Her Majesty the Queen.
their Majesties, the King and Queen of Spain
[ as form of address ] The performance begins at 8.30, (Your) Majesty.
majesty noun [ U ]
If something has majesty, it causes admiration and respect for its beauty
This music has majesty, power and passion.
The photograph captures the sunset in all its majesty.
major adjective IMPORTANT
1. [ before noun ] more important, bigger or more serious than others of the
same type
All of her major plays have been translated into English.
Sugar is a major cause of tooth decay.
There are two problems with this situation, one major, one minor.
Citrus fruits are a major source of vitamin C.
There has been a major change in attitudes recently.
The United States is a major influence in the United Nations.
Compare minor
major adjective MUSIC
2. [ after noun ] SPECIALIZED (of music) based on a scale in which there is a whole
tone between the second and third notes and a half tone between the third and fourth
notes
the key of C major
a concerto in A major
Compare minor
major noun [ C ] OFFICER
1. an officer of middle rank in the British, US and many other armed forces such
as the US Air Force
Her father was a major in the Scots Guards.
I met Major Jones last year.
[ as form of address ] Thank you, Major Jones.
2. the rank above captain in the armed forces
major noun [ C ] SPECIAL SUBJECT
3. US the most important subject that a college or university student is studying,
or the student himself or herself
What is your major, English or French?
She was a philosophy major at an Ivy League college.
major verb
major in sth US
to study something as your main subject at university
She majored in philosophy at Harvard.
majordomo noun [ C ]
1. OLD USE the most important servant in a house, in charge of the other servants
2. US a person whose job is to make arrangements or organize things for other
people
Can you ask the majordomo in the hotel to get tickets for the tennis match?
people
majorette noun [ C ] ( ALSO drum majorette )
a young woman or girl who wears a uniform and makes a pattern of movements
with a baton (= stick) by spinning it and throwing it into the air, as part of a group of
girls who do this or as the leader of a musical group
major-general noun [ C ]
an officer of high rank in the British Army, US Army and many other armed forces
such as the US Air Force
majority noun NUMBER
1. [ S ] the larger number or part of something
The majority of the employees have university degrees.
A large majority of people approve of the death sentence.
In Britain women are in the/a majority.
Compare minority
2. [ C ] in an election, the difference in the number of votes between the winning
person or group and the one that comes second
The Socialists won by a narrow/large majority.
majority noun AGE
3. [ U ] SPECIALIZED the age when you legally become an adult
the age of majority
She will inherit her father's estate when she reaches her majority.
ma ˈ jority ˌ rule noun [ U ]
the system of giving the largest group in a particular place or area the power to
make decisions for everyone
Government by majority rule can be a threat to minority rights.
majorly adverb MAINLY US SLANG
very or extremely
Have you seen Chrissie's new leather jacket? It's majorly cool.
make verb PRODUCE
1. [ T ] to produce something, often using a particular substance or material
Shall I make some coffee?
He'd made a chocolate cake.
She makes all her own clothes.
[ + two objects ] He made us some coffee./He made some coffee for us.
The pot is made to withstand high temperatures.
He works for a company that makes garden furniture.
The label on the box said 'made in Taiwan'.
Butter is made out of/from milk.
earrings made of gold
Her new trainer has promised to make an olympic athlete of her.
2. [ T ] To make a film or television programme is to direct , produce it, or act in
it
John Huston made some great films.
The film was made by Goldcrest Productions.
So why didn't Garbo make any films after 1941?
make verb CAUSE
3. [ T ] to cause something
The kids made such a mess in the kitchen.
The bullet made a hole right through his chest.
[ + infinitive without to ] The wind is making my eyes water.
What made you change your mind?
Just seeing Woody Allen's face is enough to make me laugh.
The photograph makes me look about 80!
make verb CAUSE TO BE
4. [ T ] to cause to be, to become or to appear as
[ + noun ] It's the good weather that makes Spain such a popular tourist
destination.
[ R + past participle ] She had to shout to make herself heard above the sound of
the music.
I can make myself understood in French, but I'm not fluent.
They went up to the Ambassador and made themselves known (to her).
[ + adjective ] The company accounts have not yet been made public.
The book's advertised as "navigation made easy ".
The President has made Henry Paulson his Secretary of the Treasury.
I'll have a steak - no, make that chicken.
5. make certain/sure
to take action so that you are certain that something happens, is true, etc
I'll just make sure I've turned the oven off.
Make certain (that) we have enough drink for the party.
Make sure you're home by midnight.
Jones made sure of his place in the side with three fine goals.
I think I locked the door but I'll go back and check just to make sure.
make verb PERFORM
6. [ T ] to perform an action
I must make a telephone call.
Somebody has made a donation of £1 million to Oxfam.
I need to make a trip to the shops.
On foot they could only make about 20 miles a day.
We must make a decision by tomorrow.
You're not making any effort .
Someone has made a mistake/an error .
We're making good progress .
She has made a request for a new car.
We made an offer of £150 000 for the house.
She made a short speech .
Shall we make a start on the work?
Can I make a suggestion ?
We made good time getting across town.
There's a drunk at the door making trouble .
7. make room/space/way
If you make room/space/way for something or someone, you move or move other
things, so that there is space for them.
make verb FORCE
8. make sb do sth
to force someone or something to do something
You can't make him go if he doesn't want to.
The vet put something down the dog's throat to make it vomit.
9. be made to do sth
to be forced to do something
The prisoners are made to dig holes and fill them in again.
make verb BE OR BECOME
10. [ L only + noun ] to be or become something, usually by having the necessary
characteristics
I don't think he will ever make a (good) lawyer.
He's a competent enough officer, but I doubt he'll ever make general.
It's a story that would make a great film.
She decided the back room would make a good study.
Champagne and caviar make a wonderful combination.
The story makes fascinating reading.
11. [ L only + noun ] If people or things make a particular pattern, they are
arranged in that way
Let's make a circle.
Those seven bright stars make the shape of a saucepan.
make verb TOTAL
12. [ L only + noun T ] to produce a total when added together
12 and 12 make 24.
Today's earthquake makes five since the beginning of the year.
[ + object + noun ] I've got 29 different teapots in my collection - if I buy this
one that'll make it 30.
make verb CALCULATE
13. [ T + object + noun ] to calculate as
How much do you make the total?
I make the answer (to be) 105.6.
What do you make the time?/What time do you make it?
make verb EARN/GET
14. [ T ] to earn or get
She makes $100 000 a year as a doctor.
How do you make a living as a painter?
The company has made huge profits/losses.
He's very good at making new friends.
make verb ARRIVE
15. [ T ] INFORMAL to arrive at or reach, especially successfully
She made it to the airport just in time to catch her plane.
He made it to the bed and then collapsed.
Could you make a meeting at 8 am?/Could you make 8 am for the meeting?
make verb PERFECT
16. [ T ] INFORMAL to cause to be perfect
Those little bows round the neck really make the dress!
be made for sb/sth
to be exactly suitable for someone or something
Paul and Ann were made for each other .
This wallpaper's just made for my bedroom.
be made of money
to be rich
No you can't have another bike - I'm not made of money!
Do you want to make something/anything of it? INFORMAL
something that you say to someone as a way of threatening or offering to fight
them when they disagree with you
make sth up as you go along
to invent a story or a tune without having thought before about how it will end
make a day/night/evening/weekend of it
to make an activity longer or combine a series of activities so that they last for
the whole of that particular period of time
Let's make an evening of it and catch the last train home.
We don't get out often so we thought we'd make a day of it.
make as if to do sth
If you make as if to do something, you seem as if that is what you are going to do
He made as if to speak.
make do
to manage to live without things that you would like to have or with things of a
worse quality than you would like
We didn't have cupboards so we made do with boxes.
make it (to the top)
to be very successful
She's very ambitious but I doubt she'll ever make it to the top.
make it up to sb
to do something good for someone you have upset, in order to become friends
with them again
I'm sorry we can't take you with us, but I promise I'll make it up to you somehow.
make it with sb US INFORMAL
to have sex with someone
make like US
to pretend
She made like she was about to leave, but then stayed for hours.
Stop making like you know everything, OK?
make much/a lot of sb INFORMAL
to treat someone very well
His mother used to make much of him when he went home for holidays.
make or break sth
to make something a success or a failure
Recognition by this organization can make or break a career.
be make or break for sb/sth
to make someone or something a success or a failure
The Milan show will be make or break for his new designs.
make time
to make certain you have some time when you are not busy in order to do
something you think you should do
It's important to make time to read to your children.
In a relationship you have to make time for each other.
make to do sth FORMAL
If you make to do something, you are just going to do it when something
interrupts you
I made to leave but she called me back.
what sb is (really) made of
how strong, clever or brave someone is
The 1500 metres race next week will be a chance for her to show what she's
made of.
make for somewhere/sth phrasal verb
to go in the direction of a place or thing
They made for the centre of town.
See also make towards sth/sb
make for sth phrasal verb
to result in or make possible
Having faster computers would make for a more efficient system.
make sth into sth phrasal verb
to change something into something else
They've made the spare room into an office.
make of sth/sb phrasal verb
If you ask someone what they make of someone or something, you want to know
their opinion about that person or thing, often because there is something strange
about them
Can you make anything of this information?
What do you make of the new boss?
I don't know what to make of it.
make sth of sth phrasal verb
make enough/much/more, etc. of sth
to give a particular level of value or importance to something
You should make more of your IT skills on the application form.
I think we make too much of the benefits of Western society.
Compare make light of
make off phrasal verb INFORMAL
to leave quickly, usually in order to escape
The burglars made off before the police arrived.
make off with sth phrasal verb INFORMAL
to steal something
Somebody broke into the shop and made off with several TVs and videos.
make sth/sb out phrasal verb [ M ]
to see, hear or understand something or someone with difficulty
The numbers are too small - I can't make them out at all.
I can't make out your writing.
She's a strange person - I can't make her out at all.
[ + question word ] Nobody can make out why you should have been attacked.
make sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to write all the necessary information on an official document
I made a cheque out for £20 to 'Henry's Supermarket'.
make out sth phrasal verb INFORMAL
to state, usually falsely, that something is true
[ R + to infinitive ] He made himself out to be a millionaire.
[ + to be ] The British weather is not always as bad as it is made out to be .
[ + ( that ) ] He made out (that) he had been living in Paris all year.
make out phrasal verb US INFORMAL SUCCEED
1. to deal with a situation, usually in a successful way
How is Frances making out in her new job?
The business made out better than expected in 1992 and profits were slightly up.
make out phrasal verb US INFORMAL HAVE SEX
2. to kiss and touch in a sexual way, or to succeed in having sex with someone
Boys at that age are only interested in making out with girls.
make sth over to sb phrasal verb [ M ]
to give something, such as money or land, to someone so that they legally own it
Just before her death, she had made over $100 000 to her new husband.
make towards sth/sb phrasal verb MAINLY UK
to go in the direction of something or someone
He made towards the door, but stopped and turned to face me.
See also make for somewhere/sth
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] INVENT
1. to invent something, such as an excuse or a story, often in order to deceive
I made up an excuse about having to look after the kids.
My dad was always really good at making up stories .
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] PREPARE
2. to prepare or arrange something by putting different things together
Could you make up a list of all the things that need to be done?
He asked the man behind the counter to make up a box with a mixed selection of
chocolates.
The maid will make up your room later.
3. SPECIALIZED to produce or prepare something from cloth
We could use the rest of the material to make up some curtains.
4. SPECIALIZED If you make up a page, book or newspaper, you arrange the text
and pictures in the form in which they will be printed.
5. If you make up a bed for someone, you put sheets and covers on a bed so that
they have a place to sleep in your home.
6. UK If you make up a fire, you prepare it or put more wood or coal on it when it
is burning.
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] COMPLETE
7. to make an amount of something complete or correct
I have £20 000 and I need £25 000 but my parents have promised to make up
the difference .
UK I suspect we were only invited to make up numbers (= to provide enough
people) .
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] REPLACE
8. to reduce or replace something, usually an amount of time or work, that has
been lost
We're hoping to make up time on the return journey by not stopping at night.
You'll have to make up the work you've missed while you were away.
make (sb/sth) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to put make-up on your face, or on another person's face, to improve or change
its appearance
She takes ages to make up in the mornings.
For the film, they made him up as an Indian.
make up sth phrasal verb
to form a particular thing, amount or number as a whole
Road accident victims make up almost a quarter of the hospital's patients.
The book is made up of a number of different articles.
make up phrasal verb ( ALSO make it up )
to forgive someone and be friendly with them again after an argument or
disagreement
They kissed and made up, as usual.
We often quarrel but we always make it up soon after.
make up for sth phrasal verb
to take the place of something lost or damaged or to compensate for something
bad with something good
No amount of money can make up for the death of a child.
This year's good harvest will make up for last year's bad one.
[ + -ing verb ] He bought me dinner to make up for be ing so late the day before.
make up for lost time
to enjoy an experience as much as possible because you did not have the
opportunity to do it earlier in life
I didn't travel much in my twenties but I'm certainly making up for lost time now.
make up to sb phrasal verb UK DISAPPROVING
to be too friendly to someone or to praise them in order to get advantages
Have you seen the disgusting way she makes up to the boss?
make with sth phrasal verb US OLD-FASHIONED SLANG
to give, bring or do something
He pointed a gun and said "Make with the money bags, baby!"
make noun [ C ]
a type of product or the name of the company which made it
What make is your stereo?
be on the make DISAPPROVING
to be trying very hard to get more money and power
make-believe noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
believing in things that you want to believe because they are easy or exciting, but
which are not real
The ideal of a perfectly fair society is just make-believe.
He lives in a world of make-believe/make-believe world .
people
majorette noun [ C ] ( ALSO drum majorette )
a young woman or girl who wears a uniform and makes a pattern of movements
with a baton (= stick) by spinning it and throwing it into the air, as part of a group of
girls who do this or as the leader of a musical group
major-general noun [ C ]
an officer of high rank in the British Army, US Army and many other armed forces
such as the US Air Force
majority noun NUMBER
1. [ S ] the larger number or part of something
The majority of the employees have university degrees.
A large majority of people approve of the death sentence.
In Britain women are in the/a majority.
Compare minority
2. [ C ] in an election, the difference in the number of votes between the winning
person or group and the one that comes second
The Socialists won by a narrow/large majority.
majority noun AGE
3. [ U ] SPECIALIZED the age when you legally become an adult
the age of majority
She will inherit her father's estate when she reaches her majority.
ma ˈ jority ˌ rule noun [ U ]
the system of giving the largest group in a particular place or area the power to
make decisions for everyone
Government by majority rule can be a threat to minority rights.
majorly adverb MAINLY US SLANG
very or extremely
Have you seen Chrissie's new leather jacket? It's majorly cool.
make verb PRODUCE
1. [ T ] to produce something, often using a particular substance or material
Shall I make some coffee?
He'd made a chocolate cake.
She makes all her own clothes.
[ + two objects ] He made us some coffee./He made some coffee for us.
The pot is made to withstand high temperatures.
He works for a company that makes garden furniture.
The label on the box said 'made in Taiwan'.
Butter is made out of/from milk.
earrings made of gold
Her new trainer has promised to make an olympic athlete of her.
2. [ T ] To make a film or television programme is to direct , produce it, or act in
it
John Huston made some great films.
The film was made by Goldcrest Productions.
So why didn't Garbo make any films after 1941?
make verb CAUSE
3. [ T ] to cause something
The kids made such a mess in the kitchen.
The bullet made a hole right through his chest.
[ + infinitive without to ] The wind is making my eyes water.
What made you change your mind?
Just seeing Woody Allen's face is enough to make me laugh.
The photograph makes me look about 80!
make verb CAUSE TO BE
4. [ T ] to cause to be, to become or to appear as
[ + noun ] It's the good weather that makes Spain such a popular tourist
destination.
[ R + past participle ] She had to shout to make herself heard above the sound of
the music.
I can make myself understood in French, but I'm not fluent.
They went up to the Ambassador and made themselves known (to her).
[ + adjective ] The company accounts have not yet been made public.
The book's advertised as "navigation made easy ".
The President has made Henry Paulson his Secretary of the Treasury.
I'll have a steak - no, make that chicken.
5. make certain/sure
to take action so that you are certain that something happens, is true, etc
I'll just make sure I've turned the oven off.
Make certain (that) we have enough drink for the party.
Make sure you're home by midnight.
Jones made sure of his place in the side with three fine goals.
I think I locked the door but I'll go back and check just to make sure.
make verb PERFORM
6. [ T ] to perform an action
I must make a telephone call.
Somebody has made a donation of £1 million to Oxfam.
I need to make a trip to the shops.
On foot they could only make about 20 miles a day.
We must make a decision by tomorrow.
You're not making any effort .
Someone has made a mistake/an error .
We're making good progress .
She has made a request for a new car.
We made an offer of £150 000 for the house.
She made a short speech .
Shall we make a start on the work?
Can I make a suggestion ?
We made good time getting across town.
There's a drunk at the door making trouble .
7. make room/space/way
If you make room/space/way for something or someone, you move or move other
things, so that there is space for them.
make verb FORCE
8. make sb do sth
to force someone or something to do something
You can't make him go if he doesn't want to.
The vet put something down the dog's throat to make it vomit.
9. be made to do sth
to be forced to do something
The prisoners are made to dig holes and fill them in again.
make verb BE OR BECOME
10. [ L only + noun ] to be or become something, usually by having the necessary
characteristics
I don't think he will ever make a (good) lawyer.
He's a competent enough officer, but I doubt he'll ever make general.
It's a story that would make a great film.
She decided the back room would make a good study.
Champagne and caviar make a wonderful combination.
The story makes fascinating reading.
11. [ L only + noun ] If people or things make a particular pattern, they are
arranged in that way
Let's make a circle.
Those seven bright stars make the shape of a saucepan.
make verb TOTAL
12. [ L only + noun T ] to produce a total when added together
12 and 12 make 24.
Today's earthquake makes five since the beginning of the year.
[ + object + noun ] I've got 29 different teapots in my collection - if I buy this
one that'll make it 30.
make verb CALCULATE
13. [ T + object + noun ] to calculate as
How much do you make the total?
I make the answer (to be) 105.6.
What do you make the time?/What time do you make it?
make verb EARN/GET
14. [ T ] to earn or get
She makes $100 000 a year as a doctor.
How do you make a living as a painter?
The company has made huge profits/losses.
He's very good at making new friends.
make verb ARRIVE
15. [ T ] INFORMAL to arrive at or reach, especially successfully
She made it to the airport just in time to catch her plane.
He made it to the bed and then collapsed.
Could you make a meeting at 8 am?/Could you make 8 am for the meeting?
make verb PERFECT
16. [ T ] INFORMAL to cause to be perfect
Those little bows round the neck really make the dress!
be made for sb/sth
to be exactly suitable for someone or something
Paul and Ann were made for each other .
This wallpaper's just made for my bedroom.
be made of money
to be rich
No you can't have another bike - I'm not made of money!
Do you want to make something/anything of it? INFORMAL
something that you say to someone as a way of threatening or offering to fight
them when they disagree with you
make sth up as you go along
to invent a story or a tune without having thought before about how it will end
make a day/night/evening/weekend of it
to make an activity longer or combine a series of activities so that they last for
the whole of that particular period of time
Let's make an evening of it and catch the last train home.
We don't get out often so we thought we'd make a day of it.
make as if to do sth
If you make as if to do something, you seem as if that is what you are going to do
He made as if to speak.
make do
to manage to live without things that you would like to have or with things of a
worse quality than you would like
We didn't have cupboards so we made do with boxes.
make it (to the top)
to be very successful
She's very ambitious but I doubt she'll ever make it to the top.
make it up to sb
to do something good for someone you have upset, in order to become friends
with them again
I'm sorry we can't take you with us, but I promise I'll make it up to you somehow.
make it with sb US INFORMAL
to have sex with someone
make like US
to pretend
She made like she was about to leave, but then stayed for hours.
Stop making like you know everything, OK?
make much/a lot of sb INFORMAL
to treat someone very well
His mother used to make much of him when he went home for holidays.
make or break sth
to make something a success or a failure
Recognition by this organization can make or break a career.
be make or break for sb/sth
to make someone or something a success or a failure
The Milan show will be make or break for his new designs.
make time
to make certain you have some time when you are not busy in order to do
something you think you should do
It's important to make time to read to your children.
In a relationship you have to make time for each other.
make to do sth FORMAL
If you make to do something, you are just going to do it when something
interrupts you
I made to leave but she called me back.
what sb is (really) made of
how strong, clever or brave someone is
The 1500 metres race next week will be a chance for her to show what she's
made of.
make for somewhere/sth phrasal verb
to go in the direction of a place or thing
They made for the centre of town.
See also make towards sth/sb
make for sth phrasal verb
to result in or make possible
Having faster computers would make for a more efficient system.
make sth into sth phrasal verb
to change something into something else
They've made the spare room into an office.
make of sth/sb phrasal verb
If you ask someone what they make of someone or something, you want to know
their opinion about that person or thing, often because there is something strange
about them
Can you make anything of this information?
What do you make of the new boss?
I don't know what to make of it.
make sth of sth phrasal verb
make enough/much/more, etc. of sth
to give a particular level of value or importance to something
You should make more of your IT skills on the application form.
I think we make too much of the benefits of Western society.
Compare make light of
make off phrasal verb INFORMAL
to leave quickly, usually in order to escape
The burglars made off before the police arrived.
make off with sth phrasal verb INFORMAL
to steal something
Somebody broke into the shop and made off with several TVs and videos.
make sth/sb out phrasal verb [ M ]
to see, hear or understand something or someone with difficulty
The numbers are too small - I can't make them out at all.
I can't make out your writing.
She's a strange person - I can't make her out at all.
[ + question word ] Nobody can make out why you should have been attacked.
make sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to write all the necessary information on an official document
I made a cheque out for £20 to 'Henry's Supermarket'.
make out sth phrasal verb INFORMAL
to state, usually falsely, that something is true
[ R + to infinitive ] He made himself out to be a millionaire.
[ + to be ] The British weather is not always as bad as it is made out to be .
[ + ( that ) ] He made out (that) he had been living in Paris all year.
make out phrasal verb US INFORMAL SUCCEED
1. to deal with a situation, usually in a successful way
How is Frances making out in her new job?
The business made out better than expected in 1992 and profits were slightly up.
make out phrasal verb US INFORMAL HAVE SEX
2. to kiss and touch in a sexual way, or to succeed in having sex with someone
Boys at that age are only interested in making out with girls.
make sth over to sb phrasal verb [ M ]
to give something, such as money or land, to someone so that they legally own it
Just before her death, she had made over $100 000 to her new husband.
make towards sth/sb phrasal verb MAINLY UK
to go in the direction of something or someone
He made towards the door, but stopped and turned to face me.
See also make for somewhere/sth
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] INVENT
1. to invent something, such as an excuse or a story, often in order to deceive
I made up an excuse about having to look after the kids.
My dad was always really good at making up stories .
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] PREPARE
2. to prepare or arrange something by putting different things together
Could you make up a list of all the things that need to be done?
He asked the man behind the counter to make up a box with a mixed selection of
chocolates.
The maid will make up your room later.
3. SPECIALIZED to produce or prepare something from cloth
We could use the rest of the material to make up some curtains.
4. SPECIALIZED If you make up a page, book or newspaper, you arrange the text
and pictures in the form in which they will be printed.
5. If you make up a bed for someone, you put sheets and covers on a bed so that
they have a place to sleep in your home.
6. UK If you make up a fire, you prepare it or put more wood or coal on it when it
is burning.
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] COMPLETE
7. to make an amount of something complete or correct
I have £20 000 and I need £25 000 but my parents have promised to make up
the difference .
UK I suspect we were only invited to make up numbers (= to provide enough
people) .
make sth up phrasal verb [ M ] REPLACE
8. to reduce or replace something, usually an amount of time or work, that has
been lost
We're hoping to make up time on the return journey by not stopping at night.
You'll have to make up the work you've missed while you were away.
make (sb/sth) up phrasal verb [ M ]
to put make-up on your face, or on another person's face, to improve or change
its appearance
She takes ages to make up in the mornings.
For the film, they made him up as an Indian.
make up sth phrasal verb
to form a particular thing, amount or number as a whole
Road accident victims make up almost a quarter of the hospital's patients.
The book is made up of a number of different articles.
make up phrasal verb ( ALSO make it up )
to forgive someone and be friendly with them again after an argument or
disagreement
They kissed and made up, as usual.
We often quarrel but we always make it up soon after.
make up for sth phrasal verb
to take the place of something lost or damaged or to compensate for something
bad with something good
No amount of money can make up for the death of a child.
This year's good harvest will make up for last year's bad one.
[ + -ing verb ] He bought me dinner to make up for be ing so late the day before.
make up for lost time
to enjoy an experience as much as possible because you did not have the
opportunity to do it earlier in life
I didn't travel much in my twenties but I'm certainly making up for lost time now.
make up to sb phrasal verb UK DISAPPROVING
to be too friendly to someone or to praise them in order to get advantages
Have you seen the disgusting way she makes up to the boss?
make with sth phrasal verb US OLD-FASHIONED SLANG
to give, bring or do something
He pointed a gun and said "Make with the money bags, baby!"
make noun [ C ]
a type of product or the name of the company which made it
What make is your stereo?
be on the make DISAPPROVING
to be trying very hard to get more money and power
make-believe noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
believing in things that you want to believe because they are easy or exciting, but
which are not real
The ideal of a perfectly fair society is just make-believe.
He lives in a world of make-believe/make-believe world .
make-or-break adjective
describes a situation that will bring great success or complete failure
makeover noun [ C ]
a set of changes that are intended to make a person or place more attractive
One of the prizes was a makeover at a top beauty salon.
-maker suffix
a person or machine which makes the stated thing
a film-maker
a dressmaker
a watchmaker
car-makers
policy-makers
a coffee/tea-maker
an ice-maker
See also bookmaker ; holidaymaker ; homemaker ; icemaker ; kingmaker ;
matchmaker ; pacemaker ; peacemaker ; troublemaker
maker noun [ C ]
1. the people or company that make something
They're the biggest maker of fast-food products in the UK.
The makers of the film will want to see a decent return on their investment.
2. your Maker
God
HUMOROUS He's gone to meet his Maker (= He has died) .
maker noun [ C ]
1. the people or company that make something
They're the biggest maker of fast-food products in the UK.
The makers of the film will want to see a decent return on their investment.
2. your Maker
God
HUMOROUS He's gone to meet his Maker (= He has died) .
makeshift adjective
temporary and of low quality, but used because of a sudden need
Thousands of refugees are living in makeshift camps .
make-up noun [ U ] FOR FACE
1. coloured substances used on your face to improve or change your appearance
I put on a little eye make-up.
She wears a lot of make-up.
make-up noun [ U ] PARTS
2. The make-up of something or someone is the combination of things that form it
They argue that the membership of the Council does not reflect the racial make-
up of the city.
Organizational ability is not one of the most obvious parts of his make-up.
makeweight noun [ C ]
something or someone, without much value of its own, that is added so that there
is the correct amount or number
She may be the youngest member of the team, but she's no makeweight.
making noun [ U ]
the activity or process of producing something
the art of film making
There's an article on the making of the series.
be an actor/athlete/chef, etc. in the making
to have the ability and interest to become an actor/athlete, etc. in the future
be the making of sb
If something is the making of someone, it develops in them good qualities and
characteristics which might not have developed without it
Five years in the army - that'll be the making of him!
have (all) the makings of sth
to seem likely to develop into something
She has the makings of a great violinist.
in the making
If something was a period of time in the making, it took that amount of time to
make
The film was several years in the making.
of your own making
your own fault
Any problems she has with that child are of her own making.
mal- prefix FORMAL
badly or wrongly
The disease rubella can cause pregnant women to have malformed babies.
mal- prefix FORMAL
badly or wrongly
The disease rubella can cause pregnant women to have malformed babies.
malachite noun [ U ]
a green stone used in jewellery and decoration
maladjusted adjective
describes a person, usually a child, who has been raised in a way that does not
prepare them well for the demands of life, which often leads to problems with behaviour
in the future
a residential school for disturbed and maladjusted children
maladjustment noun [ U ]
anti-social behaviour and other signs of maladjustment
maladministration noun [ U ] FORMAL
lack of care, judgment or honesty in the management of something
Thousands of refugees are dying because of the incompetence and
maladministration of local officials.
maladroit adjective FORMAL
awkward in movement or unskilled in behaviour or action
She can be a little maladroit in social situations.
maladroitly adverb
maladroitness noun [ U ]
malady noun [ C ] FORMAL DISEASE
1. a disease
All the rose bushes seem to be suffering from the same mysterious malady.
malady noun [ C ] FORMAL PROBLEM
2. a problem within a system or organization
Apathy is one of the maladies of modern society.
Malagasy noun [ C ] , adjective
malaise noun [ S or U ] FORMAL
a general feeling of being ill or having no energy, or an uncomfortable feeling that
something is wrong, especially with society, and that you cannot change the situation
They claim it is a symptom of a deeper and more general malaise in society.
We were discussing the roots of the current economic malaise.
malapropism noun [ C ]
the wrong use of one word instead of another word because they sound similar to
each other, and which is funny as a result
malaria noun [ U ]
a disease that you can get from the bite of a particular type of mosquito (= a
small flying insect) which causes periods of fever and makes you feel very cold and
shake. It is common in many hotter parts of the world.
malarkey noun [ U ] INFORMAL
silly behaviour or nonsense
I like the socializing but I can't be bothered with the dressing up and all that
malarkey.
Malawi noun [ U ]
Malawian noun [ C ] , adjective
Malaysia noun [ U ]
Malaysian noun [ C ] , adjective
malcontent noun [ C ] LITERARY
a person who is not satisfied with the way things are, and who complains a lot
and is unreasonable and difficult to deal with
the Maldives noun [ + sing/pl verb ]
Maldivian noun [ C ] , adjective
male adjective SEX
1. describes men or boys, or the sex that fertilizes eggs, and does not produce
babies or eggs itself
male students
a male giraffe
IT is very much a male-dominated industry.
What percentage of the adult male population is unemployed?
The male parts of the flower are the stamens and the anthers.
See also masculine
male adjective CONNECTING PART
2. SPECIALIZED describes a piece of equipment that has a part which sticks out and
can be fitted into a hollow part in another piece of equipment
a male plug
Compare female
maleness noun [ U ]
male noun [ C ]
a boy, man, or male animal
The male of the species is less aggressive.
Among the bodies are two unidentified British males.
malaria noun [ U ]
malarkey.
Malawi noun [ U ]
Malaysia noun [ U ]
male adjective SEX
male students
a male giraffe
See also masculine
a male plug
Compare female
maleness noun [ U ]
male noun [ C ]
ˌ male ˈ bonding noun [ U ]
the forming of close friendships between men
ˌ male ˌ chauvinist ( ˈ pig) noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a man who believes that women are naturally less important, intelligent or able
than men, and so does not treat men and women equally
male chauvinism noun [ U ]
a bastion of male chauvinism
malaria noun [ U ]
malarkey.
Malawi noun [ U ]
Malaysia noun [ U ]
male adjective SEX
male students
a male giraffe
See also masculine
a male plug
Compare female
maleness noun [ U ]
male noun [ C ]
ˌ male ˈ bonding noun [ U ]
the forming of close friendships between men
ˌ male ˌ chauvinist ( ˈ pig) noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a man who believes that women are naturally less important, intelligent or able
than men, and so does not treat men and women equally
male chauvinism noun [ U ]
a bastion of male chauvinism
malefactor noun [ C ] FORMAL
a person who does bad or illegal things
ˌ male ˈ menopause noun [ U ] MAINLY HUMOROUS
a state of mind experienced by some men about 40 or 50 years old in which they
start to worry that they are not successful enough, and start to want suddenly to find a
new job or a new partner
ˌ male ˈ organ noun [ C ]
POLITE EXPRESSION FOR penis
malevolent adjective LITERARY
causing or wanting to cause harm or evil
The central character is a malevolent witch out for revenge.
I could feel his malevolent gaze as I walked away.
malevolence noun [ U ]
It was an act of great malevolence.
malevolently adverb
malfeasance noun [ U ] LEGAL
an example of dishonest and illegal behaviour, especially by a person in authority
Several cases of malpractice and malfeasance in the financial world are currently
being investigated.
malformation noun [ C or U ]
the condition of being wrongly formed, or a part of something, such as part of the
body, that is wrongly formed
Exposure to radiation can lead to malformation of the embryo.
She was born critically ill with a severe malformation of the heart.
malformed adjective
malfunction verb [ I ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
to fail to work or operate correctly
malfunction noun [ C ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
a failure to work or operate correctly
Shortly before the crash the pilot had reported a malfunction of the aircraft's
navigation system.
Mali noun [ U ]
Malian noun [ C ] , adjective
malice noun [ U ]
1. the wish to harm or upset other people
There certainly wasn't any malice in her comments.
FORMAL I bear him no malice (= do not want to harm or upset him) .
2. with malice aforethought LEGAL
To illegally harm someone with malice aforethought is to have thought about it
and planned it before acting.
malicious adjective
intended to harm or upset other people
malicious gossip
a malicious look in his eyes
He complained that he'd been receiving malicious telephone calls.
LEGAL He was charged with malicious wounding .
maliciously adverb
malign adjective FORMAL
causing or intending to cause harm or evil
Foreign domination had a malign influence on local politics.
She describes pornography as 'a malign industry'.
malignity noun [ U ]
malign verb [ T often passive ]
to say false and unpleasant things about someone or to unfairly criticize them
She has recently been maligned in the gossip columns of several newspapers.
Much- maligned for their derivative style, the band are nevertheless enduringly
popular.
malignancy noun [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED
a growth that is likely to get uncontrollably worse and lead to death; the state of
being malignant
The malignancy of these tumours makes them difficult to treat.
Tests revealed a malignancy that had to be removed.
malignant adjective DISEASE
1. describes a disease or a growth that is likely to get uncontrollably worse and
lead to death
The process by which malignant cancer cells multiply isn't fully understood.
Is the tumour malignant or benign?
Compare benign
malignant adjective EVIL
2. FORMAL evil: having a strong wish to do harm
He developed a malignant hatred for the land of his birth.
malignantly adverb
malinger verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING
to pretend to be ill in order to avoid having to work
And is he really ill or just malingering?
malingerer noun [ C ]
I'm sure she thinks I'm a malingerer.
mall noun [ C ] ( ALSO shopping mall )
a large, usually covered, shopping area where cars are not allowed
There are plans to build a new mall in the middle of town.
mallard noun [ C ]
a wild duck that is common in Europe and North America
The male mallard has a green head and reddish-brown chest.
malleable adjective
1. describes a substance that is easily changed into a new shape
Lead and tin are malleable metals.
2. easily influenced, trained or controlled
He had an actor's typically malleable features.
Europe saw its colonies as a source of raw material and a malleable workforce.
malleability noun [ U ]
mallee noun [ C ]
a tree of the eucalyptus group which does not grow tall and is found in desert
areas of Australia
mallet noun [ C ]
mallet
a tool like a hammer with a large flat end made of wood or rubber, or a wooden
hammer with a long handle used in sports such as croquet and polo
See also hammer
malleus noun [ C usually sing ] SPECIALIZED
one of three very small bones that carry sound from the eardrum to the inner ear
See also incus , stapes
ˈ mall ˌ rat noun [ C ] US SLANG
a young person who goes to shopping malls (= large covered shopping areas) to
spend time with their friends
malnourished adjective
weak and in bad health because of having too little food or too little of the types
of food necessary for good health
malnutrition noun [ U ]
physical weakness and bad health caused by having too little food, or too little of
the types of food necessary for good health
Many of the refugees are suffering from severe malnutrition.
malodorous adjective FORMAL
having an unpleasant smell
The town is built on a malodorous swamp.
malpractice noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
failure to act correctly or legally when doing your job, often causing injury or loss
They are accused of medical/financial/electoral malpractice.
malt noun [ U ]
grain, usually barley , that has been left in water until it starts to grow and is then
dried. It is used in the making of alcoholic drinks such as beer and whisky
malt verb [ T ]
Malta noun [ U ]
ˌ malted ˈ milk noun [ U ]
a drink made from milk and malt
Maltese noun [ C ]
Maltese cross noun [ C ]
a cross with four equal parts that get wider further from the centre
ˌ malt ˈ extract noun [ U ]
a sweet dark sticky substance made from malt and used in food
maltose noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a type of sugar made in the body from starch by enzymes (= substances that
cause chemical change)
maltreat verb [ T ] FORMAL
to treat someone cruelly or violently
He had been badly maltreated as a child.
maltreatment noun [ U ]
They complained about the physical and psychological maltreatment of prisoners.
ˌ malt ˈ whisky noun [ C or U ] ( ALSO malt )
whisky made using malt rather than ordinary grain
a fine Highland malt
malware noun [ U ]
computer software that is designed to damage the way a computer works
mam noun [ C ]
NORTHERN INFORMAL FOR mum (MOTHER)
mama noun [ C ]
1. UK OLD USE OR US INFORMAL another word for mother
2. US SLANG a woman, especially an attractive one
There's a good-looking mama sitting at the bar.
mama's boy noun [ C ]
US FOR mummy's boy
mamba noun [ C ]
a very poisonous snake that lives mainly in caves or trees in parts of Africa
mammal noun [ C ]
any animal of which the female gives birth to babies, not eggs, and feeds them on
milk from her own body
Humans, dogs, elephants and dolphins are all mammals, but birds, fish and
crocodiles are not.
mammalian adjective SPECIALIZED
mammalian evolution
mammalian species
mammary adjective SPECIALIZED
relating to the breasts or milk organs
ˈ mammary ˌ gland noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an organ in a woman's breast that produces milk to feed a baby, or a similar
organ in a female animal
ˌ malt ˈ whisky noun [ C or U ] ( ALSO malt )
whisky made using malt rather than ordinary grain
a fine Highland malt
malware noun [ U ]
computer software that is designed to damage the way a computer works
mam noun [ C ]
NORTHERN INFORMAL FOR mum (MOTHER)
mama noun [ C ]
1. UK OLD USE OR US INFORMAL another word for mother
2. US SLANG a woman, especially an attractive one
There's a good-looking mama sitting at the bar.
mama's boy noun [ C ]
US FOR mummy's boy
mamba noun [ C ]
a very poisonous snake that lives mainly in caves or trees in parts of Africa
mammal noun [ C ]
any animal of which the female gives birth to babies, not eggs, and feeds them on
milk from her own body
Humans, dogs, elephants and dolphins are all mammals, but birds, fish and
crocodiles are not.
mammalian adjective SPECIALIZED
mammalian evolution
mammalian species
mammary adjective SPECIALIZED
relating to the breasts or milk organs
ˈ mammary ˌ gland noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an organ in a woman's breast that produces milk to feed a baby, or a similar
organ in a female animal
mammogram noun [ C ] ( ALSO mammograph )
an X-ray photograph of the breasts
mammography noun [ U ]
the use of X-ray photographs of the breasts to help discover possible cancers
Mammon noun [ U ] LITERARY
the force which makes people try to become as rich as possible and the belief that
this is the most important thing in life
mammoth adjective
extremely large
Cleaning up the city-wide mess is going to be a mammoth task .
It's a mammoth undertaking - are you sure you have the resources to cope?
mammoth noun [ C ]
a type of large elephant covered in hair that had tusks and no longer exists
mammy noun [ C ]
1. MAINLY US OR IRISH CHILD'S WORD mother
2. US OFFENSIVE OLD-FASHIONED a black woman whose job is to take care of white
children
mammy noun [ C ]
1. MAINLY US OR IRISH CHILD'S WORD mother
2. US OFFENSIVE OLD-FASHIONED a black woman whose job is to take care of white
children
man noun MALE
1. [ C ] an adult male human being
a young/tall man
men and women
the man in the green jacket
the men's 400 metres champion
Steve can solve anything - the man's a genius.
2. [ C ] a male employee, without particular rank or title
The gas company said they would send some men to fix the heating system.
The man from the BBC wrote some positive things about the film.
The military expedition was made up of 100 officers and men.
Our man in Washington sent us the news by fax yesterday.
OLD USE My man (= male servant) will show you to the door.
3. a marketing/advertising, etc. man
a man typical of or involved in marketing/advertising, etc.
4. [ C ] INFORMAL a woman's husband or male partner
I hear she's got a new man.
Is there a man in her life?
5. MAINLY US INFORMAL used when talking to someone, especially a man
Hey, man, how are you doing?
6. man and wife OLD-FASHIONED
If a man and a woman are man and wife, they are married to each other.
7. the man
US SLANG the police
man noun PEOPLE
8. [ U ] the human race
Man is still far more intelligent than the cleverest robot.
Man is rapidly destroying the Earth.
This is one of the most dangerous substances known to man.
Try to imagine what life must have been like for Neolithic man 10 000 years ago.
9. [ C ] LITERARY OR OLD-FASHIONED a person of either sex
All men are equal in the sight of the law.
man noun OBJECT
10. [ C ] any of the objects that are moved or played with in games such as chess
as one man FORMAL
If a group of people do something as one man they do it together at exactly the
same time
As one man, the delegates made for the exit.
It's every man for himself.
something that you say which means that everyone in a particular situation is
trying to do what is best for themselves and no one is trying to help anyone else
It might be a civilized place to shop at other times but come the January sales,
it's every man for himself.
make a man (out) of sb
to cause a young man or boy to act like an adult and take responsibility
A couple of years in the army should make a man of him.
man and boy UK OLD-FASHIONED
all a man's life
From 1910 to 1970 he worked in that factory, man and boy.
be man enough to do sth
to be brave enough to do something
He was man enough to admit he had made a mistake.
the man in the moon
(in children's stories) the human face that you can imagine you see when you
look at the moon
(as) man to man
If two men talk (as) man to man, they talk seriously and honestly together as
equals.
man's best friend
a dog
man's inhumanity to man
the cruelty which people show to each other
Man's inhumanity to man never fails to shock me.
a man's man
a man who enjoys men's activities and being with other men
Terry's what you'd call a man's man - I don't expect you'd find him at the ballet
too many nights a week.
to a man
every person in a group
There were 400 people at the meeting and they all, to a man, voted in favour.
You the man! US NOT STANDARD
used to praise a man who has done something well
man verb [ T ]
To man something such as a machine or vehicle is to be present in order to
operate it
The phones are manned 24 hours a day.
Barricades were erected against the advancing government troops and they were
manned throughout the night.
Man the pumps!
See also overmanned ; undermanned ; unmanned
man exclamation INFORMAL
used as an exclamation, especially when you are expressing a strong emotion
Man, we had a good time - we drank all through the night!
-man , suffix
having the nationality or job mentioned, or (of a group or vehicle) containing the
number of people mentioned
an Irishman
a policeman
businessmen
a five-man team
a two-man helicopter
-man , suffix
having the nationality or job mentioned, or (of a group or vehicle) containing the
number of people mentioned
an Irishman
a policeman
businessmen
a five-man team
a two-man helicopter
man-about-town noun [ S ]
a man who spends a lot of time in fashionable places, doing fashionable things
manacle verb [ T ]
to put manacles around a person's legs or arms
They had manacled her legs together .
His arm was manacled to a ring on the wall.
manacles plural noun
two metal rings joined by a chain, used to prevent a prisoner from escaping by
fastening the legs or arms
See picture manacles
manage verb SUCCEED
1. [ I or T ] to succeed in doing something, especially something difficult
[ + to infinitive ] Did you manage to get any bread?
I only just managed to finish on time.
A small dog had somehow managed to survive the fire.
I can't manage all this work on my own.
Don't worry about us - we'll manage!
Can you manage dinner on Saturday (= Will you be able to come to dinner) ?
MAINLY UK I'm afraid I can't manage the time (= I'm too busy) to see you at the
moment.
2. [ I ] to succeed in living on a small amount of money
After she lost her job, they had to manage on his salary.
manage verb CONTROL
3. [ T ] to be responsible for controlling or organizing someone or something
especially a business
Has she had any experience of managing large projects?
He's not very good at managing people.
His job involved managing large investment funds.
When you have a job as well as children to look after, you have to learn how to
manage your time.
See also mismanage
manageable adjective
easy or possible to deal with
The work has been divided into smaller, more manageable sections.
Government targets for increased productivity are described as "tough but
manageable".
management noun
1. [ U ] the control and organization of something
The company has suffered from several years of bad management.
There is a need for stricter financial management.
a management training scheme
2. [ C + singular or plural verb ] the group of people responsible for controlling
and organizing a company
Management has/have offered staff a 3% pay increase.
management noun
1. [ U ] the control and organization of something
The company has suffered from several years of bad management.
There is a need for stricter financial management.
a management training scheme
2. [ C + singular or plural verb ] the group of people responsible for controlling
and organizing a company
Management has/have offered staff a 3% pay increase.
ˌ management con ˈ sultant noun [ C ]
someone whose job is to give advice to companies about the best way of
managing and improving their businesses
management consultancy noun
1. [ U ] the job of being a management consultant
2. [ C ] a company that offers other companies advice about the best way of
managing and improving their businesses
manager noun [ C ]
1. the person who is responsible for managing an organization
a bank manager
a station manager
the production manager
I wish to speak to the manager.
2. the person whose job is to organize and sometimes train a sports team
a football manager
3. The manager of a singer, actor or other performer is a person whose job is to
arrange the business part of their work.
manageress noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a female manager
managerial adjective
relating to a manager or management
managerial responsibilities/decisions/skills
ˌ managing di ˈ rector noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MD ) UK
the person in charge of the way a company operates
There's a board of five directors, but she is the Managing Director.
mañana adverb INFORMAL
some time in the future; later
"When will you do it?" "Oh, mañana!"
ˈ man ˌ bag noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a bag that a man uses for carrying his money, keys, mobile phone, etc
ˈ man ˌ bag noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a bag that a man uses for carrying his money, keys, mobile phone, etc
ˈ man ˌ breasts , man-breasts plural noun INFORMAL
fat on a man's chest that makes it look as though he has a woman's breasts
Mancunian noun [ C ]
a person from Manchester, a city in the north of England
Mancunian adjective
mandarin noun [ C ] FRUIT
1. ( ALSO mandarin orange ) a small sweet type of orange but with a thinner,
looser skin
mandarin noun [ C ] OFFICIAL
2. MAINLY DISAPPROVING a person who has a very important job in the government,
and who is sometimes considered to be too powerful
It often seems that true power lies with the Civil Service mandarins, rather than
MPs and cabinet ministers.
Mandarin (Chinese) noun [ U ]
one of the two main types of the Chinese language and the official language in
China and Taiwan
mandate noun [ C usually singular ] AUTHORITY
1. the authority given to an elected group of people, such as a government, to
perform an action or govern a country
At the forthcoming elections, the government will be seeking a fresh mandate
from the people.
[ + to infinitive ] The president secured the Congressional mandate to go to war
by three votes.
mandate noun [ C usually singular ] AREA NAME
2. SPECIALIZED the name of an area of land which has been given to a country by
the UN , following or as part of a peace agreement
mandate verb [ T ] GIVE PERMISSION
1. to give official permission for something to happen
The UN rush to mandate war totally ruled out any alternatives.
mandate verb [ T ] ORDER
2. MAINLY US to order someone to do something
[ + to infinitive ] Our delegates have been mandated to vote against the proposal
at the conference.
mandatory adjective FORMAL
describes something which must be done, or which is demanded by law
The minister is calling for mandatory prison sentences for people who assault
police officers.
Athletes must undergo a mandatory drugs test before competing in the
championship.
In 1991, the British government made it mandatory to wear rear seat belts in
cars.
police officers.
championship.
cars.
mandible noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
1. in a person or animal, the lower jaw bone
2. in insects, one of the two parts of the mouth used for biting and cutting food
mandolin , mandoline noun [ C ]
a musical instrument with four pairs of metal strings and a round back
mandrake noun [ C ]
a plant with purple flowers and a root which is divided into two parts
mandrill noun [ C ]
a large West African monkey which has a red and blue face and a very short tail
mane noun [ C ]
1. the long thick hair that grows along the top of a horse's neck or around the
face and neck of a lion
See picture animals 1
2. thick long hair on a person's head
The painting depicts a beautiful young man with a flowing mane of red hair.
man-eater noun [ C ] WOMAN
1. HUMOROUS a woman who uses men to have a series of sexual relationships
without loving them
man-eater noun [ C ] ANIMAL
2. an animal that can kill and eat a person
man-eating adjective [ before noun ]
a man-eating tiger
maneuver noun [ C ] , verb , [ I or T ]
US FOR manoeuvre
ˌ man ˈ Friday noun [ C usually singular ]
a male helper who is loyal and can be trusted
police officers.
championship.
cars.
mandrake noun [ C ]
mandrill noun [ C ]
mane noun [ C ]
without loving them
a man-eating tiger
US FOR manoeuvre
manfully adverb
with determination and bravery, despite great problems
The actors struggled manfully with some of the worst lines of dialogue ever
written.
manga noun [ C or U ]
Japanese comic books that tell stories in pictures
manganese noun [ U ]
a grey-white metallic element, used in the process of making steel
mange noun [ U ]
an infectious disease in animals that have hair, such as dogs and cats, which
makes hair fall out and causes areas of rough skin
manger noun [ C ] OLD USE
an open box from which cattle and horses feed
mangetout noun [ C usually plural ] UK ( US snow pea )
the sweet flat pods of a particular type of pea which are picked and eaten whole
mangle verb
1. [ T often passive ] to destroy something by twisting it with force or tearing it
into pieces so that its original form is completely changed
My sweater got mangled in the washing machine.
His arm was mangled in the machine.
2. [ T ] If you mangle a speech or a piece of written work, you make so many
mistakes that you completely spoil it
As he read the poem out loud, he mangled the rhythm so badly that it scarcely
made any sense.
mangled adjective
All that remains of yesterday's car crash is a pile of mangled metal.
mangle noun [ C ] ( ALSO wringer )
a machine used for pressing water out of clothes by putting the clothes between
two heavy smooth round bars
police officers.
championship.
cars.
mandrake noun [ C ]
mandrill noun [ C ]
mane noun [ C ]
without loving them
a man-eating tiger
US FOR manoeuvre
manfully adverb
with determination and bravery, despite great problems
The actors struggled manfully with some of the worst lines of dialogue ever
written.
manga noun [ C or U ]
Japanese comic books that tell stories in pictures
manganese noun [ U ]
a grey-white metallic element, used in the process of making steel
mange noun [ U ]
an infectious disease in animals that have hair, such as dogs and cats, which
makes hair fall out and causes areas of rough skin
manger noun [ C ] OLD USE
an open box from which cattle and horses feed
mangetout noun [ C usually plural ] UK ( US snow pea )
the sweet flat pods of a particular type of pea which are picked and eaten whole
mangle verb
1. [ T often passive ] to destroy something by twisting it with force or tearing it
into pieces so that its original form is completely changed
My sweater got mangled in the washing machine.
His arm was mangled in the machine.
2. [ T ] If you mangle a speech or a piece of written work, you make so many
mistakes that you completely spoil it
As he read the poem out loud, he mangled the rhythm so badly that it scarcely
made any sense.
mangled adjective
All that remains of yesterday's car crash is a pile of mangled metal.
mangle noun [ C ] ( ALSO wringer )
a machine used for pressing water out of clothes by putting the clothes between
two heavy smooth round bars
mango noun [ C or U ]
mango
an oval tropical fruit with a smooth skin, juicy orange-yellow flesh and a large
hard seed in the middle
ˌ mango ˈ chutney noun [ U ]
a sweet pickle eaten with South Asian food
mangrove noun [ C ]
a tropical tree, found near water, whose twisted roots grow partly above ground
a mangrove swamp
mangrove noun [ C ]
a tropical tree, found near water, whose twisted roots grow partly above ground
a mangrove swamp
mangy adjective ANIMAL
1. suffering from mange
a thin mangy dog
mangy adjective OLD/DIRTY
2. INFORMAL describes something that is old and dirty and has been used a lot
We need to get rid of that mangy old carpet in the bedroom.
manhandle verb [ T ] HANDLE ROUGHLY
1. to touch or hold someone roughly and with force, often when taking them
somewhere
There were complaints that the police had manhandled some of the
demonstrators.
manhandle verb [ T ] MOVE
2. to move something using the physical strength of the body
Several pieces of heavy equipment had to be manhandled into the lorry.
manhattan noun [ C ]
a type of alcoholic drink
A manhattan contains whisky and vermouth.
manhole noun [ C ]
manhole
a covered opening in a road which a worker can enter in order to reach
underground pipes, wires or drains which need to be examined or repaired
a manhole cover
manhood noun
1. [ U ] the state of being a man
The story is seen through the eyes of a boy on the verge of manhood.
A celebration is held for the boy at the age when he is considered to have reached
manhood.
2. [ U ] the qualities that are considered typical of a man
Tall, square-jawed and handsome, this young actor is Hollywood's ideal of
manhood.
3. [ U ] LITERARY men, especially all the men of a particular country
The flower of the nation's manhood (= the best young men in the country) was
killed in the war.
4. [ U ] MAINLY HUMOROUS a man's ability to express or experience sexual feelings
Why do you think he needs to have so many women around him - is it just a way
of proving his manhood?
5. [ S ] HUMOROUS penis
Careful you don't trap your manhood in your zip!
manhour noun [ C ] ( ALSO person hour )
the amount of work done by one person in one hour
Just think how many manhours we could save if we computerized the system.
manhour noun [ C ] ( ALSO person hour )
the amount of work done by one person in one hour
Just think how many manhours we could save if we computerized the system.
manhunt noun [ C ]
an organized search for a person, especially a criminal
The police have launched a manhunt after the body of a six-year-old boy was
found last night.
mania noun [ C or U ] STRONG INTEREST
1. DISAPPROVING a very strong interest in something which fills a person's mind or
uses up all their time
So why your sudden mania for exercise?
The article describes the religious mania which is sweeping the US.
mania noun [ C or U ] MENTAL ILLNESS
2. a state in which someone directs all their attention to one particular thing
Van Gogh suffered from acute persecution mania.
She's always cleaning - it's like a mania with her.
3. SPECIALIZED a state of extreme physical and mental activity, often involving a
loss of judgment and periods of euphoria
-mania suffix
a very strong interest in the stated thing, especially among a large group of
people
Beatle-mania swept Britain in the 1960s.
See also kleptomania ; nymphomania ; pyromania
maniac noun [ C ] STRONG INTEREST
1. INFORMAL a person who has a very strong interest in a particular activity
a football/sex maniac
maniac noun [ C ] MENTALLY ILL PERSON
2. a person who behaves in an uncontrolled way, not worrying about risks or
danger
Some maniac was running down the street waving a massive metal bar.
INFORMAL I won't get in the car with Richard - he drives like a maniac!
like a maniac
If someone works or exercises like a maniac, they work or exercise extremely
hard.
maniacal adjective
describes a cry or laugh that is loud and wild
He suddenly exploded into maniacal laughter .
maniacal adjective
describes a cry or laugh that is loud and wild
He suddenly exploded into maniacal laughter .
manic adjective
very excited or anxious (= worried and nervous) in a way that causes you to be
very physically active
He's a bit manic - I wish he'd calm down.
ˌ manic de ˈ pression noun [ U ]
a mental illness causing someone to change from being extremely happy and
excited to being extremely sad
He suffers from manic depression.
ˌ manic de ˈ pressive noun [ C ]
a person who has manic depression
manicure noun [ C or U ]
(a) treatment for the hands which involves softening the skin and making the
nails look better by cutting, smoothing and possibly painting them
Compare pedicure
manicure verb [ T ]
manicured adjective HANDS
1. having had a manicure
He has very well- manicured hands.
manicured adjective TIDY
2. If something, such as a garden, is manicured, it is well cared for and looks very
tidy
The hotel is surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens.
ˈ manicure ˌ set noun [ C ]
a set of small tools which are used for cutting and smoothing the nails
manicurist noun [ C ]
a person whose job it is to give people manicures
manifest verb [ T ] FORMAL
to show something clearly, through signs or actions
The workers chose to manifest their dissatisfaction in a series of strikes.
The illness first manifested itself in/as severe stomach pains.
Lack of confidence in the company manifested itself in a fall in the share price.
manifest adjective FORMAL
easily noticed or obvious
manifest relief
manifest lack of interest
manifest verb [ T ] FORMAL
to show something clearly, through signs or actions
The workers chose to manifest their dissatisfaction in a series of strikes.
The illness first manifested itself in/as severe stomach pains.
Lack of confidence in the company manifested itself in a fall in the share price.
manifest adjective FORMAL
easily noticed or obvious
manifest relief
manifest lack of interest
manifestation noun FORMAL
1. [ C ] a sign of something existing or happening
She claimed that the rise in unemployment was just a further manifestation of the
government's incompetence.
2. [ U ] appearance
Unlike acid rain or deforestation, global warming has no visible manifestation .
manifestly adverb FORMAL
very obviously
He claims that he is completely committed to the project and yet this is manifestly
untrue .
The government has manifestly failed to raise educational standards, despite its
commitment to do so.
manifesto noun [ C ]
a written statement of the beliefs, aims and policies of an organization, especially
a political party
In their election manifesto, the Liberal Democrats proposed increasing taxes to
pay for improvements in education.
manifold adjective FORMAL
many and of several different types
Despite her manifold faults, she was a strong leader.
manifold noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a pipe or closed space in a machine which has several openings, allowing liquids
and gases to enter and leave
manikin , mannikin noun [ C ] MODEL
1. a model of the human body, used for teaching medical or art students
manikin , mannikin noun [ C ] MAN
2. OLD-FASHIONED a very short man
Manikins often appear in children's stories.
manila , manilla adjective
made of strong brown paper
manila envelopes
manioc noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a South American plant with large roots, or a type of flour made from these roots;
cassava
manioc noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a South American plant with large roots, or a type of flour made from these roots;
cassava
manipulate verb [ T ] INFLUENCE
1. MAINLY DISAPPROVING to control something or someone to your advantage, often
unfairly or dishonestly
Throughout her career she has very successfully manipulated the media.
The opposition leader accused government ministers of manipulating the statistics
to suit themselves.
manipulate verb [ T ] USE HANDS
2. to control something using the hands
The wheelchair is designed so that it is easy to manipulate.
3. to treat a part of the body, using the hands to push back bones into the correct
position and put pressure on muscles
The doctor manipulated the base of my spine and the pain disappeared
completely.
manipulation noun [ C or U ] INFLUENCE
1. MAINLY DISAPPROVING controlling someone or something to your own advantage,
often unfairly or dishonestly
They have been accused of fraud and stock market manipulations.
There's been so much media manipulation of the facts that nobody knows the
truth of the matter.
The opposition party claims the president returned to power through political
manipulation.
manipulation noun [ C or U ] BODY TREATMENT
2. treatment of a part of the body using the hands
Osteopathy involves massage and manipulation of the bones and joints.
manipulative adjective MAINLY DISAPPROVING
describes someone who tries to control people to their advantage
Even as a child she was manipulative and knew how to get her own way.
manipulator noun [ C ] MAINLY DISAPPROVING
a person who controls people to their own advantage, often unfairly or dishonestly
She was, said the judge, a ruthless and scheming manipulator.
mankind noun [ U ] ( ALSO humankind )
the whole of the human race, including both men and women
Mankind has always been obsessed by power.
Compare womankind
mankind noun [ U ] ( ALSO humankind )
the whole of the human race, including both men and women
Mankind has always been obsessed by power.
Compare womankind
manky adjective UK INFORMAL
describes an object that is unpleasantly dirty, usually because it is old or has been
used a lot
a manky tissue
manky old carpets
manly adjective APPROVING
having the qualities which people think a man should have
He has such a manly voice.
My mother used to tell me it wasn't manly for little boys to cry.
manliness noun [ U ]
man-made adjective
artificial rather than natural
man-made fibres
It's a man-made lake.
manna noun [ U ]
(in the Bible) a food which dropped from heaven and prevented Moses and his
people from dying of hunger in the desert
manna from heaven
help that you get when you need it but are not expecting it
mannequin noun [ C ]
1. a large model of a human being, used to show clothes in the window of a shop
2. OLD-FASHIONED FOR model (PERSON)
manner noun WAY
1. [ S ] the way in which something is done
She stared at me in an accusing manner.
He was elected in the normal manner.
It was the manner of her death that stuck in the public's mind.
2. in the manner of sth
in the style of something
Her latest film is a suspense thriller very much in the manner of Hitchcock.
manner noun BEHAVIOUR
3. [ S ] the usual way in which you behave towards other people, or the way you
behave on a particular occasion
She has a rather cold, unfriendly manner.
As soon as he realized that we weren't going to buy anything, his whole manner
changed.
manner noun POLITE BEHAVIOUR
4. manners
[ plural ] polite ways of treating other people and behaving in public
He needs to be taught some manners.
It's bad manners to eat with your mouth open.
It's considered good manners in some societies to leave a little food on your
plate.
manner noun TYPE
5. [ U ] FORMAL a type
Very little is known about the new candidate - what manner of man is he?
all manner of sth
a lot of different types
There are all manner of architectural styles in the capital.
as (if) to the manner born FORMAL
If you do something as (if) to the manner born, you do it very well and very
naturally as if it is usual and easy for you.
in a manner of speaking FORMAL
used for saying that something is partly true
She's his partner, in a manner of speaking.
not by any manner of means UK OLD-FASHIONED
not in any way
I'm not satisfied with his excuse - not by any manner of means.
mannered adjective DISAPPROVING
describes a style of speech or behaviour that is artificial, or intended to achieve a
particular effect
His performance as Hamlet was criticized for being very mannered.
-mannered suffix
describes a person with the behaviour or character of the stated type
an ill/bad -mannered boy
He was a mild- mannered (= gentle and calm) young man.
I noticed how well -mannered her children were.
mannerism noun [ C ]
something that a person does repeatedly with their face, hands or voice, and
which they may not be realise they are doing
He's got some very strange mannerisms.
We've spent so much time together that we've picked up each other's
mannerisms.
Mannerism noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a style of 16th century art, common in Italy, France and Spain, which did not
follow traditional rules of painting and tried to represent an image of beauty that was
perfect rather than natural
Mannerism is characterized by a distortion of proportions and perspective.
Mannerist noun [ C ]
Leading Mannerists include Parmigiano and Giulio Romano, whose pictures are
painted in deep, rich colours.
mannikin noun [ C ]
a manikin
mannish adjective DISAPPROVING
If you describe a woman as mannish, you mean that her appearance or behaviour
are too much like a man's
her mannish voice
She wondered if short hair made her look a bit mannish.
mano a mano noun [ C ] MAINLY US
1. a bullfight (= fight between men and male cows) in which two people each
fight several bulls
2. a competition, argument or fight between two people
a mano a mano between the two presidential candidates
mano a mano adverb
If someone goes mano a mano, they compete, argue or fight with someone
a loudmouthed woman going mano a mano with officials
manoeuvrable UK , US maneuverable adjective
easy to move and direct
The new missile is faster and more manoeuvrable than previous models.
manoeuvrability UK , US maneuverability noun [ U ]
Power-assisted steering improves a car's manoeuvrability.
-mannered suffix
describes a person with the behaviour or character of the stated type
an ill/bad -mannered boy
He was a mild- mannered (= gentle and calm) young man.
I noticed how well -mannered her children were.
mannerism noun [ C ]
something that a person does repeatedly with their face, hands or voice, and
which they may not be realise they are doing
He's got some very strange mannerisms.
We've spent so much time together that we've picked up each other's
mannerisms.
Mannerism noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a style of 16th century art, common in Italy, France and Spain, which did not
follow traditional rules of painting and tried to represent an image of beauty that was
perfect rather than natural
Mannerism is characterized by a distortion of proportions and perspective.
Mannerist noun [ C ]
Leading Mannerists include Parmigiano and Giulio Romano, whose pictures are
painted in deep, rich colours.
mannikin noun [ C ]
a manikin
mannish adjective DISAPPROVING
If you describe a woman as mannish, you mean that her appearance or behaviour
are too much like a man's
her mannish voice
She wondered if short hair made her look a bit mannish.
mano a mano noun [ C ] MAINLY US
1. a bullfight (= fight between men and male cows) in which two people each
fight several bulls
2. a competition, argument or fight between two people
a mano a mano between the two presidential candidates
mano a mano adverb
If someone goes mano a mano, they compete, argue or fight with someone
a loudmouthed woman going mano a mano with officials
manoeuvrable UK , US maneuverable adjective
easy to move and direct
The new missile is faster and more manoeuvrable than previous models.
manoeuvrability UK , US maneuverability noun [ U ]
Power-assisted steering improves a car's manoeuvrability.
manoeuvre UK , US maneuver noun MOVEMENT
1. [ C ] a movement or set of movements needing skill and care
Reversing round a corner is one of the manoeuvres you are required to perform
in a driving test.
manoeuvre UK , US maneuver noun MILITARY OPERATION
2. [ C usually plural ] a planned and controlled movement or operation by the
armed forces for training purposes and in war
military /naval manoeuvres
We saw the army on manoeuvres in the mountains.
manoeuvre UK , US maneuver noun CLEVER ACTION
3. [ C ] a cleverly planned action which is intended to get an advantage
A series of impressive manoeuvres by the chairman had secured a lucrative
contract for the company.
room for manoeuvre
the opportunity to change your plans or choose between different ways of doing
something
The law in this area is very strict and doesn't allow us much room for manoeuvre.
manoeuvre UK , US maneuver verb MOVE
1. [ I or T ] to turn and direct an object
Loaded supermarket trolleys are often difficult to manoeuvre.
This car manoeuvres well at high speed.
manoeuvre UK , US maneuver verb MAKE SB DO STH
2. [ T ] to try to make someone act in a particular way
The other directors are trying to manoeuvre her into resigning.
manoeuvring UK , US maneuvering noun CLEVER ACTION
1. [ C or U ] when you cleverly plan something to get an advantage
The directors managed to secure a good deal for the company with a bit of subtle
manoeuvring.
He claimed he knew nothing about the political manoeuvrings which had got him
into power.
manoeuvring UK , US maneuvering noun MOVEMENT
2. [ U ] when you move or move something with skill and care
With some careful manoeuvring, I was able to get the car into the narrow space.
manoeuvring UK , US maneuvering noun CLEVER ACTION
1. [ C or U ] when you cleverly plan something to get an advantage
The directors managed to secure a good deal for the company with a bit of subtle
manoeuvring.
He claimed he knew nothing about the political manoeuvrings which had got him
into power.
manoeuvring UK , US maneuvering noun MOVEMENT
2. [ U ] when you move or move something with skill and care
With some careful manoeuvring, I was able to get the car into the narrow space.
ˌ man of ˈ God noun [ C ] ( ALSO man of the cloth ) MAINLY HUMOROUS
a priest
ˌ man of ˈ letters noun [ C ] FORMAL
a man, usually a writer, who knows a lot about literature
ˌ man of ˈ straw noun [ C ] WEAK
1. MAINLY UK someone who has a weak character
He was accused by his opponents of being a man of straw and lacking in
decisiveness.
ˌ man of ˈ straw noun [ C ] IMAGINARY
2. a straw man
manometer noun [ C ]
a device for measuring the pressure of gases and liquids
manor noun LARGE HOUSE
1. [ C ] ( ALSO manor house ) a large old house in the country with land belonging
to it
manor noun AREA
2. [ C usually singular ] UK SLANG the area in which a person works or which they
are responsible for
manpower noun [ U ]
the supply of people who are able to work
The industry has suffered from a lack of manpower.
manpower shortages
manqué adjective FORMAL
an artist/poet/writer, etc. manqué
someone who has not had the opportunity to do a particular job, despite having
the ability to do it
manservant noun [ C ] OLD USE
a male servant with responsibility for the personal needs of his employer, such as
preparing his food and clothes
manservant noun [ C ] OLD USE
a male servant with responsibility for the personal needs of his employer, such as
preparing his food and clothes
mansion noun [ C ]
a very large expensive house
The street is lined with enormous mansions where the rich and famous live.
Mansions plural noun UK
used in the name of some buildings that contain apartments
Her new address is 12 Warwickshire Mansions.
man-sized adjective [ before noun ] OLD-FASHIONED
big
man-sized tissues
manslaughter noun [ U ] LEGAL
the crime of killing a person by someone who did not intend to do it or who
cannot be responsible for their actions
She was sentenced to five years imprisonment for manslaughter.
He denies murder but admits manslaughter on the grounds of diminished
responsibility.
Compare murder ; suicide
manta ray noun [ C ]
a very large flat sea fish with triangular fins , the largest type of ray
mantelpiece noun [ C ] ( US ALSO mantel )
mantelpiece
a shelf above a fireplace , usually part of a frame which surrounds the fireplace
She's got photographs of all her grandchildren on the mantelpiece.
mantis noun [ C ] ( ALSO praying mantis )
a large green insect that holds its front legs in a way that makes it look as if it is
praying when it is waiting to catch another insect
mantle noun RESPONSIBILITY
1. [ S ] FORMAL the responsibilities of an important position or job, especially as
given from the person who had the job to the person who replaces them
She unsuccessfully attempted to assume the mantle of presidency.
He has been asked to take on the mantle of managing director in the New York
office.
mantle noun LAYER
2. [ C ] LITERARY a layer of something which covers a surface
A thick mantle of snow lay on the ground.
We watched the building vanish under a mantle of thick grey smoke as the fire
swiftly moved through it.
3. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the part of the Earth that surrounds the central core
4. [ C ] in the past, a piece of clothing without sleeves which was worn over other
clothes
mantle noun RESPONSIBILITY
1. [ S ] FORMAL the responsibilities of an important position or job, especially as
given from the person who had the job to the person who replaces them
She unsuccessfully attempted to assume the mantle of presidency.
He has been asked to take on the mantle of managing director in the New York
office.
mantle noun LAYER
2. [ C ] LITERARY a layer of something which covers a surface
A thick mantle of snow lay on the ground.
We watched the building vanish under a mantle of thick grey smoke as the fire
swiftly moved through it.
3. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the part of the Earth that surrounds the central core
4. [ C ] in the past, a piece of clothing without sleeves which was worn over other
clothes
man-to-man adjective [ before noun ] , adverb
describes an honest and direct conversation between two men
a man-to-man discussion
We talked man-to-man.
mantra noun [ C ]
1. (especially in Hinduism and Buddhism) a word or sound which is believed to
have a special spiritual power
A personal mantra is sometimes repeated as an aid to meditation or prayer.
2. a word or phrase which is often repeated and which sometimes expresses a
belief
The crowds chanted that familiar football mantra: "Here we go, here we go, here
we go..."
manual adjective
1. done with the hands
the manual sorting of letters
She tried to cure the pain in my knee by putting manual pressure on the joint.
2. describes a machine that is operated with the hands rather than by electricity
or a motor
He still works on an old manual typewriter.
3. involving physical work rather than mental work
unskilled manual labour
750 manual workers will lose their jobs as a result of company cutbacks.
Computer-controlled robots are taking over manual jobs in many industries.
manual noun [ C ]
a book which gives you practical instructions on how to do something or how to
use something, such as a machine
a DIY manual
The computer comes with a 600-page instruction manual.
ˌ manual dex ˈ terity noun [ U ]
someone's ability to perform a difficult action with the hands skilfully and quickly
so that it looks easy
manually adverb
by hand
Few of the machines are operated manually.
manually adverb
by hand
Few of the machines are operated manually.
ˌ manual trans ˈ mission noun [ U ]
If a car has manual transmission, the gears are changed by the driver.
Compare automatic transmission
manufacture verb [ T ] PRODUCE
1. to produce goods in large numbers, usually in a factory using machines
He works for a company that manufactures car parts.
The report notes a rapid decline in manufactured goods .
manufacture verb [ T ] INVENT
2. to invent something, such as an excuse or story, in order to deceive someone
She insisted that every scandalous detail of the story had been manufactured.
manufacture noun [ U ]
the process of producing goods
Oil is used in the manufacture of a number of fabrics.
The amount of recycled glass used in manufacture doubled in five years.
manufacturer noun
1. [ C ] a company that produces goods in large numbers
Germany is a major manufacturer of motor cars.
2. manufacturers
[ plural ] companies that produce manufactured goods
Our kettle was leaking, so we had to send it back to the manufacturers.
manufacturing noun [ U ]
the business of producing goods in large numbers
car manufacturing
the manufacturing of military equipment
manure noun [ U ]
solid waste from animals, especially horses, which is spread on the land in order
to make plants grow well
manuscript noun [ C ]
1. the original copy of a book or article before it is printed
He sent the 400-page manuscript to his publisher.
2. an old document or book written by hand in the times before printing was
invented
It is thought that the manuscript is the work of a monk and dates from the twelfth
century.
manuscript noun [ C ]
1. the original copy of a book or article before it is printed
He sent the 400-page manuscript to his publisher.
2. an old document or book written by hand in the times before printing was
invented
It is thought that the manuscript is the work of a monk and dates from the twelfth
century.
Manx adjective
of the Isle of Man, the people who live there or their language
ˌ Manx ˈ cat noun [ C ]
a type of cat with no tail
many determiner , pronoun
used mainly in negative sentences and questions to mean 'a large number of'
I don't have many clothes.
Not many people have heard of him.
There are n't very many weekends between now and Christmas.
Were there many cars on the road?
How many students are there in each class?
Many people would disagree with your ideas.
Rachel was at the party with her many admirers.
I've met him so many times and I still can't remember his name!
There are too many people chasing too few jobs.
If there are only five of us going to the concert, then I've booked one too many
seats.
If there were as many women as there are men in parliament, the situation would
be very different.
As many as (= The surprisingly large number of) 6 000 people may have been
infected with the disease.
There are already twelve bottles of wine, so if I buy as many again (= another
twelve bottles) we'll have enough.
A good/great many people who voted for her in the last election will not be
doing so this time.
She'd had five children in as many (= in the same number of) years and decided
it was enough.
in so many words
directly, or in a way that makes it very clear what you mean
"Did he say he was unhappy with Anna?" "Well, not in so many words but that
was certainly the impression I got."
I told her, in so many words, to stop interfering.
many a time
many times
I've told you many a time not to ride your bike on the pavement.
many happy returns (of the day)
said to mean 'Happy Birthday'
many's the
used to show something has happened many times or for long periods of time
Many's the hour I've spent by the telephone just waiting in case he called.
one too many INFORMAL
If you have had one too many, you have drunk too much alcohol.
many-sided adjective [ before noun ]
having many sides or a lot of different features or characteristics
a many-sided object
A many-sided character, he wrote poetry and was a keen cricketer and cook.
many-sided adjective [ before noun ]
having many sides or a lot of different features or characteristics
a many-sided object
A many-sided character, he wrote poetry and was a keen cricketer and cook.
Maoism noun [ U ]
the type of Communism introduced in China by Mao Zedong
Maoist noun [ C ] , adjective
Maori noun [ C ]
one of the original people of New Zealand and the Cook Islands
The Maoris arrived in New Zealand from Polynesia over 1 000 years before the
Europeans.
Maori adjective
related to the culture, people or language of Maoris
The Maori language is now officially encouraged.
Before a rugby match, the New Zealand team perform a Maori war dance.
map noun [ C ]
map
1. a drawing of the Earth's surface, or part of that surface, showing the shape and
position of different countries, political borders, natural features such as rivers and
mountains, and artificial features such as roads and buildings
a map of the world
a map of Paris
a road map
We need a large-scale map showing all the footpaths that we can walk along.
I'm hopeless at map reading (= understanding maps) .
2. a drawing that gives you a particular type of information about a particular
area
He bought a map showing the population distribution of Scotland.
3. something which shows the position of stars in the sky or the features on the
surface of planets
a celestial map
a map of Mars
4. a very simple plan which shows a direction of travel between one place and
another
I'll draw you a quick map if you're worried about finding the hotel.
blow/bomb/wipe, etc. sth off the map
to destroy a place or thing completely, especially with bombs
A nuclear bomb could wipe the whole country off the map.
put sth/sb on the map
to make a thing, person or place famous
The governor has managed to put this sleepy southern state in America on the
map.
map verb [ T ]
to represent an area of land in the form of a map
Parts of the mountainous region in the north of the country have still not been
mapped.
map sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to plan something in detail
The government has issued a new document mapping out its policies on
education.
His future is all mapped out ahead of him.
maple noun [ C or U ]
a type of large tree which grows in northern areas of the world, or the wood of
this tree
a maple leaf
maple trees
maple noun [ C or U ]
a type of large tree which grows in northern areas of the world, or the wood of
this tree
a maple leaf
maple trees
ˌ maple ˈ syrup noun [ U ]
a thick sweet liquid produced from the maple tree which is eaten with or used in
making food
pancakes with maple syrup
mar verb [ T ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
to spoil something, making it less perfect or less enjoyable
Sadly, the text is marred by careless errors.
It was a really nice day, marred only by a little argument in the car on the way
home.
I hope the fact that Louise isn't coming won't mar your enjoyment of the
evening.
maracas plural noun
maracas
a musical instrument consisting of two hollow containers filled with beans or small
stones, which are shaken to provide the rhythm for some types of music
maraschino , noun [ U ]
slightly bitter liqueur made from a particular type of cherry
mara ˌ schino ˈ cherry noun [ C usually plural ]
a cherry which is preserved in maraschino or a similar drink and used to decorate
drinks and food
marathon noun [ C ] RACE
1. a running race of slightly over 26 miles (42.195 kilometres)
the London/New York marathon
She did/ran her first marathon in just under three hours.
marathon noun [ C ] LONG ACTIVITY
2. an activity which takes a long time and makes you very tired
The election broadcast, a nine-hour marathon, lasts until seven o'clock in the
morning.
marathon adjective [ before noun ] RACE
1. related to marathons (= running races)
a marathon runner
marathon adjective [ before noun ] LONG TIME
2. describes something which takes a very long time and makes you very tired
I had a marathon session marking 55 exam papers yesterday.
marauder noun [ C ]
a person or animal that goes from one place to another looking for something to
kill or steal
marauder noun [ C ]
a person or animal that goes from one place to another looking for something to
kill or steal
marauding adjective [ before noun ]
going from one place to another killing or using violence, stealing and destroying
Witnesses reported gangs of marauding soldiers breaking into people's houses
and setting fire to them.
marble noun ROCK
1. [ U ] a type of very hard rock which has a pattern of lines going through it,
feels cold and becomes smooth and shiny when cut and polished
a marble floor/statue
marble noun GLASS BALL
2. [ C ] a small ball usually made of coloured or transparent glass which is used in
children's games
3. marbles
[ U ] a children's game in which small round glass balls are rolled along the floor
marbled adjective
decorated with a delicate pattern consisting of lines and areas of colour
The church has an ornate black and white marbled interior.
The plant has oval green leaves marbled with brownish-purple.
The steak was just how he liked - pink, juicy and marbled with fat.
marcasite noun [ U ]
a mineral that can be cut and polished to look like precious stones and is used to
make cheap jewellery
March noun [ C or U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Mar )
the third month of the year, after February and before April
26(th) March/March 26(th)/26(th) Mar/Mar 26(th)
My birthday is on the eleventh of March/March the eleventh/ MAINLY US March
eleventh.
He retired last March/is retiring next March.
The meeting will be one day in/during March.
It has been one of the wettest Marches for several years.
march noun PUBLIC EVENT
1. [ C ] an event in which a large number of people walk through a public place to
express their support for something, or their disagreement with or disapproval of
something
She's going on a march on Saturday in protest over the closure of the hospital.
march noun MUSIC
2. [ C ] a piece of music with a strong regular rhythm which is written for
marching to
a funeral march
Mendelssohn's Wedding March
march noun SOLDIERS' WALK
3. [ C or U ] a walk, especially by a group of soldiers all walking with the same
movement and speed
It had been a long march and the soldiers were weary.
The border was within a day's march (= distance measured in time taken to walk
it) .
4. on the march
If soldiers are on the march, they have started marching to a place.
march noun CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENT
5. [ S ] the continuous development of a state, activity or idea
It is impossible to stop the forward march of progress/time.
The island is being destroyed by the relentless march of tourism.
march verb WALK
1. [ I ] to walk somewhere quickly and in a determined way, often because you
are angry
She marched into my office demanding to know why I hadn't written my report.
2. [ I ] to walk through a public place as part of a public event to express support
for something, or disagreement with or disapproval of something
Over four thousand people marched through London today to protest against the
proposed new law.
3. [ I or T ] to walk with regular steps keeping the body stiff, usually in a formal
group of people who are all walking in the same way
The band marched through the streets.
The soldiers marched 90 miles in three days.
march verb TAKE FORCEFULLY
4. [ T + adverb or preposition ] to forcefully make someone go somewhere by
taking hold of them and pulling them there or going there with them
Without saying a word, she took hold of my arm and marched me off to the
headmaster's office.
The police marched a gang of youths out of the building.
See also frogmarch
Quick march!
an order given to soldiers to make them start marching
march noun PUBLIC EVENT
1. [ C ] an event in which a large number of people walk through a public place to
express their support for something, or their disagreement with or disapproval of
something
She's going on a march on Saturday in protest over the closure of the hospital.
march noun MUSIC
2. [ C ] a piece of music with a strong regular rhythm which is written for
marching to
a funeral march
Mendelssohn's Wedding March
march noun SOLDIERS' WALK
3. [ C or U ] a walk, especially by a group of soldiers all walking with the same
movement and speed
It had been a long march and the soldiers were weary.
The border was within a day's march (= distance measured in time taken to walk
it) .
4. on the march
If soldiers are on the march, they have started marching to a place.
march noun CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENT
5. [ S ] the continuous development of a state, activity or idea
It is impossible to stop the forward march of progress/time.
The island is being destroyed by the relentless march of tourism.
march verb WALK
1. [ I ] to walk somewhere quickly and in a determined way, often because you
are angry
She marched into my office demanding to know why I hadn't written my report.
2. [ I ] to walk through a public place as part of a public event to express support
for something, or disagreement with or disapproval of something
Over four thousand people marched through London today to protest against the
proposed new law.
3. [ I or T ] to walk with regular steps keeping the body stiff, usually in a formal
group of people who are all walking in the same way
The band marched through the streets.
The soldiers marched 90 miles in three days.
march verb TAKE FORCEFULLY
4. [ T + adverb or preposition ] to forcefully make someone go somewhere by
taking hold of them and pulling them there or going there with them
Without saying a word, she took hold of my arm and marched me off to the
headmaster's office.
The police marched a gang of youths out of the building.
See also frogmarch
Quick march!
an order given to soldiers to make them start marching
marcher noun [ C ]
a person marching through a public place as part of a public event
The marchers stopped outside the American embassy, chanting slogans and
waving banners.
ˈ marching ˌ orders plural noun ( US USUALLY walking papers ) INFORMAL
If you give someone their marching orders, you ask them to leave a place or a job
because they have done something wrong
Three players got their marching orders last week.
She was called into the boss's office and given her marching orders
march-past noun [ C usually singular ]
a march of the armed forces past an officer of high rank or a king or queen
Mardi Gras noun [ C usually singular ]
1. the day before the beginning of Lent , which is celebrated in some countries
with a lot of music, colourful costumes and dancing in the streets
2. another name for Shrove Tuesday
mare noun [ C ]
an adult female horse
Compare stallion
margarine noun [ U ] ( UK INFORMAL marge )
a food used for cooking and spreading on bread, which is similar to butter but
softer and usually made from vegetable fat
margarita noun [ C ]
a type of alcoholic drink
A margarita is made with tequila, an orange liqueur and lime or lemon juice.
margin noun [ C ] DIFFERENCE
1. the amount by which one thing is different from another
The Senate approved the use of military force by a margin of 52 votes to 47.
The poll shows that the government is leading by the narrowest of margins.
margin noun [ C ] OUTER PART
2. the empty space to the side of the text on a page, sometimes separated from
the rest of the page by a vertical line
If I have any comments to make, I'll write them in the margin.
3. the outer edge of an area
The plant tends to grow in the lighter margins of woodland areas.
4. on the margins of sth
If someone is on the margins of a group of people, they are part of that group,
but they are different in important ways, and if someone is on the margins of an
activity, they are only slightly involved
He spent the 1980s on the margins of British politics.
The government needs to reach out to those on the margins of society .
margin noun [ C ] DIFFERENCE
1. the amount by which one thing is different from another
The Senate approved the use of military force by a margin of 52 votes to 47.
The poll shows that the government is leading by the narrowest of margins.
margin noun [ C ] OUTER PART
2. the empty space to the side of the text on a page, sometimes separated from
the rest of the page by a vertical line
If I have any comments to make, I'll write them in the margin.
3. the outer edge of an area
The plant tends to grow in the lighter margins of woodland areas.
4. on the margins of sth
If someone is on the margins of a group of people, they are part of that group,
but they are different in important ways, and if someone is on the margins of an
activity, they are only slightly involved
He spent the 1980s on the margins of British politics.
The government needs to reach out to those on the margins of society .
marginal adjective SMALL
1. very small in amount or effect
The report suggests that there has only been a marginal improvement in women's
pay over the past few years.
2. of marginal interest
of interest to only a few people
programmes about subjects of marginal interest
marginal adjective POLITICS
3. describes a political area or position in parliament which can be won by only a
small number of votes because support for the main parties is equally divided among
the people voting
The marginal Tory constituency was held by 2200 votes in 1992.
marginal noun [ C ] UK
a marginal political area or position in parliament
Labour lost two of the key marginals in London.
The minister's own seat is a Tory marginal.
marginalize , UK USUALLY marginalise verb [ T often passive ]
to treat someone or something as if they are not important
Now that English has taken over as the main language, the country's native
language has been marginalized.
marginalization , UK USUALLY marginalisation noun [ U ]
The marginalization of certain groups within the community may lead to social
unrest.
ˌ marginal ˈ land noun [ U ]
land which is found on the edge of cultivated areas and is often difficult to grow
crops on
marginally adverb
slightly
marginally more expensive
ˌ margin of ˈ error noun [ C ]
an extra amount of something, such as time or money, which you allow because
there might be a mistake in your calculations
When archaeologists date objects that are thousands of years old, they allow a
margin of error of several hundred years.
The government estimates that its borrowing requirement this year could reach
£150 billion, subject to a wide margin of error.
marigold noun [ C ]
a plant with bright yellow or orange flowers
marigold noun [ C ]
a plant with bright yellow or orange flowers
marijuana , marihuana noun [ U ]
a usually illegal drug made from the dried leaves and flowers of the hemp plant,
which produces a feeling of pleasant relaxation if smoked or eaten
marimba noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an instrument like a xylophone but with a lower sound, having a row of wooden
strips that you hit with sticks fixed along a frame
marina noun [ C ]
a small port that is used for pleasure rather than trade, often with hotels,
restaurants and bars
marinade noun [ C ]
a mixture, usually containing oil, wine or vinegar, and herbs and spices, which
you pour over fish or meat before it is cooked, in order to add flavour to it or make it
tender
Pour the marinade over the beef and leave it for 24 hours.
marinate verb [ T ]
to pour a marinade over meat or fish
Marinate the chicken in white wine for a couple of hours before frying.
marine adjective [ before noun ]
related to the sea or sea transport
The oil slick seriously threatens marine life around the islands.
Marine biologists are concerned about the effects of untreated sewage that is
flowing into coastal waters.
One plane, a marine F18, was lost in the raid.
The Central harbour area will be closed to all marine traffic from 3.45 pm to 4.30
pm.
See also maritime
marine noun [ C ]
a soldier who works closely with the navy and is trained especially for military
operations on land which begin from the sea
the ˈ Marine ˌ Corps noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
a part of the United States military forces that consists of soldiers who operate on
land and at sea
the ˈ Marine ˌ Corps noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
a part of the United States military forces that consists of soldiers who operate on
land and at sea
mariner noun [ C ] LITERARY OR OLD USE
a sailor
Many a mariner lost his life on these rocks.
Marines plural noun
a part of a country's military forces which takes part especially in operations on
land which begin from the sea
He's in the Royal Marines.
Tell that/it to the Marines! US SAYING
said when you do not believe something
marionette noun [ C ] ( ALSO puppet )
a small model of a person or animal with parts of the body that are moved with
strings
marital adjective FORMAL
connected with marriage
They've been having marital problems , apparently.
HUMOROUS You can't expect to live in a state of marital bliss .
marital breakdown
ˌ marital ˈ aid noun [ C ]
OLD-FASHIONED FOR sex toy
ˈ marital ˌ status noun [ U ]
whether or not someone is married
Could I ask you about your marital status?
maritime adjective FORMAL
1. connected with human activity at sea
Amalfi and Venice were important maritime powers.
Make sure you visit the maritime museum if you're interested in anything to do
with ships or seafaring.
2. near the sea or coast
The temperature change in winter is less pronounced in maritime areas.
marjoram noun [ U ]
a sweet Mediterranean herb used to flavour food
marjoram noun [ U ]
a sweet Mediterranean herb used to flavour food
mark noun DIFFERENT AREA
1. [ C ] a small area on the surface of something which is damaged, dirty or
different in some way
There were dirty marks on her trousers where she had wiped her hands.
His fingers had left marks on the table's polished surface.
She had a red mark on her arm where she'd burnt herself.
See picture mark
2. [ C ] a typical feature or one which allows you to recognize someone or
something
Did your attacker have any distinguishing marks, such as a scar or a birthmark?
You can tell which puppy is which from the marks (also markings ) on their fur.
mark noun SYMBOL
3. [ C ] a symbol which is used for giving information
I've put a mark on the map where I think we should go for a picnic.
What do those marks in the middle of the road mean?
4. [ C ] a written or printed symbol
a question mark
an exclamation mark
punctuation marks
mark noun FOR SCHOOL WORK
5. [ C ] MAINLY UK a judgment, expressed as a number or letter, about the quality
of a piece of work done at school, college or university
What mark did you get in the biology exam?
Matilda's had very good marks in/for English throughout the year.
UK You scored full marks in the test - ten out of ten!
See picture mark
mark noun LEVEL
6. [ S ] the level intended or wanted
Sales have already passed the million mark.
mark noun REPRESENTATION
7. [ C ] an action which is understood to represent or show a characteristic of a
person or thing or feeling
He took off his hat as a mark of respect for her dead husband.
It's the mark of a gentleman to stand up when someone enters the room.
I'd like to give this bottle of wine as a mark of appreciation for all the work you've
done for us.
mark noun MONEY
8. [ C ] a Deutschmark
be off the mark
If something someone says or writes is off the mark, it is not correct
His criticisms are way off the mark.
Bedini and Curzi were probably not far off the mark in their analysis.
be quick/slow off the mark
to be quick/slow to act or react to an event or a situation
The police were certainly quick off the mark reaching the scene of the accident.
be up to the mark
to be good enough
Her latest batch of work just isn't up to the mark.
leave your /its mark on sb/sth
to have an effect that changes someone or something, usually in a bad way
The experience had left its mark on her.
make a/ your mark (on sth )
to have an important effect on something
Daniel didn't work here for very long, but he definitely made his mark on the
place.
On your marks, get set, go! ( US ALSO on your mark... get set... go )
something called out to competitors at the beginning of a running race
mark verb PIECE OF WORK
1. [ T ] to correct mistakes in and give points for a piece of work
I was up half the night marking exam papers .
UK You'll be marked down (= given a lower mark) for poor spelling and
punctuation.
mark verb DAMAGE/MAKE DIRTY
2. [ I or T ] to make a mark on something or someone
Make sure you don't mark the paintwork while you're moving the furniture
around.
A dark carpet won't mark as easily as a light one.
mark verb REPRESENT
3. [ T ] to represent or show a characteristic of a person or thing or feeling
The band's songs have always been marked by controversial lyrics.
The signing of the treaty marked a major milestone on the road to European
union.
4. [ T ] to show respect for or commemorate
Tomorrow's parade will mark the fiftieth anniversary of the battle.
mark verb SYMBOL
5. [ T ] to show where something is by drawing or putting something somewhere
I've marked the route around the one-way system on the town plan.
I'd like everyone to mark their progress on the chart every week.
X marks the spot where the treasure is buried.
See picture mark
mark verb SPORT
6. [ T ] UK ( US cover ) to prevent a member of the opposing team from taking
control of the ball by staying close to them all the time
be marked out as sth UK ( US be marked as sth )
to be shown to be different because of a certain characteristic
I can't speak a word of French so I'm marked out as a foreigner as soon as I
arrive in France.
(You) mark my words! OLD-FASHIONED
something that you say when you tell someone about something that you are
certain will happen in the future
He'll cause trouble - you mark my words!
mark time
1. to march in one place without moving forward
2. to do little while waiting for something that is going to happen
She's just marking time until she goes off to university.
mark sth down phrasal verb [ M ] REDUCE
1. to reduce the price of something, usually in order to encourage people to buy it
Low consumer demand has forced us to mark down a wide range of goods,
sometimes by as much as 30%.
Shares in the electricity companies were marked down following the
announcement of the new energy tax.
mark sth down phrasal verb [ M ] RECORD
2. to write something on a piece of paper in order to make a record of it
I've marked down the number of each item sold.
Look carefully at these questions and mark your answers down in the right-hand
column.
mark sb down as sth phrasal verb
to consider someone as a particular type of person
I'd marked her down as a Labour Party supporter, but I was completely wrong.
mark sth/sb off phrasal verb [ M ]
If you mark off things or people that are on a list, you record that you have dealt
with them
As I complete each task I mark it off.
mark sth off phrasal verb
to separate an area by putting something around it
Police had marked off the area where the body was found.
mark sth out phrasal verb
to show the shape or position of something by drawing a line around it
He'd marked out a volleyball court on the beach with a stick.
mark sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to increase the price of something
They buy paintings at auctions, mark them up and then resell them at a vast
profit to collectors.
In the days of hyperinflation, we would rush to the market as soon as we were
paid and buy our weekly groceries before they were marked up.
Shares in retail businesses were marked up on the news that consumer spending
rose last month.
Mark noun
1. used before a number to describe a variation of a machine, especially one that
is an improvement on the original machine
The car has enjoyed modest success since its launch, but the Mark 2 version is
expected to be far more popular.
2. used before a number to show what temperature you should use for cooking
something in a gas oven
Cook at Mark 5 for 20 minutes.
Mark noun
markdown noun [ C ]
a reduction in the price of something
We're offering a 10% markdown on selected items.
marked adjective
describes a change or difference in behaviour or a situation that is very obvious or
noticeable
There was a marked improvement in my health when I gave up smoking.
Unemployment has fallen again, although the change is less marked than last
month.
The president spoke with passion for an hour, in marked contrast to his subdued
address to the parliament yesterday.
markedly adverb
Eye-witness accounts of the fighting differ markedly from police reports of what
happened.
ˌ marked ˈ man/ ˈ woman noun [ C usually singular ]
someone who is at risk of unpleasant action being taken against them
He is still free to travel the world, but he knows that he is a marked man.
marker noun [ C ] SYMBOL
1. a sign which shows where something is
I've put in some markers where I planted the seeds.
She reached the 500-metre marker in record time.
marker noun [ C ] PEN
2. ( ALSO marker pen ) a thick pen for writing or drawing
market noun [ C ] BUYING AND SELLING
1. the people who might want to buy something, or a part of the world where
something is sold
Are you sure there's a market for the product?
We estimate the potential market for the new phones to be around one million
people in this country alone.
The domestic market is still depressed, but demand abroad is picking up.
They've increased their share of the market by 10% over the past year.
2. the business or trade in a particular product, including financial products
the coffee market
the economic market
the commodities market
the stock market
the job market
the housing market
3. in the market for sth
interested in buying something
Thanks for the offer, but I'm not in the market for another car at the moment.
4. on the market
available for sale
We put our house on the market as soon as house prices started to rise.
This is one of the best televisions on the market.
The pictures would sell for half a million on the open market (= if offered for sale
without a fixed price) .
market noun [ C ] PLACE
5. a place or event at which people meet in order to buy and sell things
Fruit and vegetables are much cheaper from/ in/on the market than in the
supermarket.
She runs a stall in/on the market.
The indoor flower market is a big tourist attraction.
a craft market
The town's always busy on market day .
See also marketplace
market noun [ C ] SHOP
6. US a shop that sells mainly food
See also hypermarket ; supermarket
market verb [ T ]
to make goods available to buyers in a planned way which encourages people to
buy more of them, for example by advertising
Their products are very cleverly marketed.
marketer noun [ C ]
marketable adjective
Marketable products or skills are easy to sell because a lot of people want them
This is a highly marketable product.
marketability noun [ U ]
Mark noun
markdown noun [ C ]
a reduction in the price of something
We're offering a 10% markdown on selected items.
marked adjective
describes a change or difference in behaviour or a situation that is very obvious or
noticeable
There was a marked improvement in my health when I gave up smoking.
Unemployment has fallen again, although the change is less marked than last
month.
The president spoke with passion for an hour, in marked contrast to his subdued
address to the parliament yesterday.
markedly adverb
Eye-witness accounts of the fighting differ markedly from police reports of what
happened.
ˌ marked ˈ man/ ˈ woman noun [ C usually singular ]
someone who is at risk of unpleasant action being taken against them
He is still free to travel the world, but he knows that he is a marked man.
marker noun [ C ] SYMBOL
1. a sign which shows where something is
I've put in some markers where I planted the seeds.
She reached the 500-metre marker in record time.
marker noun [ C ] PEN
2. ( ALSO marker pen ) a thick pen for writing or drawing
market noun [ C ] BUYING AND SELLING
1. the people who might want to buy something, or a part of the world where
something is sold
Are you sure there's a market for the product?
We estimate the potential market for the new phones to be around one million
people in this country alone.
The domestic market is still depressed, but demand abroad is picking up.
They've increased their share of the market by 10% over the past year.
2. the business or trade in a particular product, including financial products
the coffee market
the economic market
the commodities market
the stock market
the job market
the housing market
3. in the market for sth
interested in buying something
Thanks for the offer, but I'm not in the market for another car at the moment.
4. on the market
available for sale
We put our house on the market as soon as house prices started to rise.
This is one of the best televisions on the market.
The pictures would sell for half a million on the open market (= if offered for sale
without a fixed price) .
market noun [ C ] PLACE
5. a place or event at which people meet in order to buy and sell things
Fruit and vegetables are much cheaper from/ in/on the market than in the
supermarket.
She runs a stall in/on the market.
The indoor flower market is a big tourist attraction.
a craft market
The town's always busy on market day .
See also marketplace
market noun [ C ] SHOP
6. US a shop that sells mainly food
See also hypermarket ; supermarket
market verb [ T ]
to make goods available to buyers in a planned way which encourages people to
buy more of them, for example by advertising
Their products are very cleverly marketed.
marketer noun [ C ]
marketable adjective
Marketable products or skills are easy to sell because a lot of people want them
This is a highly marketable product.
marketability noun [ U ]
marketeer noun [ C ]
someone who works in or supports a particular market system
Under the old regime black marketeers would buy almost anything from Western
tourists and resell it at an enormous profit.
Free marketeers are vehemently opposed to the new safety regulations.
ˌ market ˈ forces plural noun
the forces that decide price levels in an economy or trading system whose
activities are not influenced or limited by government
The action of market forces means that the cost of something rises if demand for
it rises and the amount available remains constant.
ˌ market ˈ garden noun [ C ] UK ( US truck farm )
a small farm where fruit and vegetables are grown for selling to the public
market gardener noun [ C ] ( US truck farmer )
Farmers and market gardeners have been badly affected by the drought.
market gardening noun [ U ] ( US truck farming )
marketing noun [ U ] JOB
1. a job that involves encouraging people to buy a product or service
a career in marketing
Our marketing people have come up with a great idea for the launch of the new
model.
marketing noun [ U ] SHOPPING
2. US shopping
We like to get the marketing done on Thursdays so we can have the weekend
free.
marketing noun [ U ] JOB
1. a job that involves encouraging people to buy a product or service
a career in marketing
Our marketing people have come up with a great idea for the launch of the new
model.
marketing noun [ U ] SHOPPING
2. US shopping
We like to get the marketing done on Thursdays so we can have the weekend
free.
marketplace noun [ C ] PLACE
1. a small outside area in a town where there is a market
I'll meet you in the marketplace next to the fountain.
marketplace noun [ C ] BUSINESS CONDITIONS
2. a set of trading conditions or the business environment
To remain competitive the company has to be able to adapt to the changing
marketplace.
It's essential that we maintain our position in the marketplace (= keep our share
of business activity) .
ˌ market ˈ price noun [ S ]
a price which is likely to be paid for something
They're asking £400 000 for their flat, but the market price is nearer £350 000.
ˌ market re ˈ search noun [ U ]
the collection and examination of information about things that people buy or
might buy and their feelings about things that they have bought
Market research shows that demand for small cars will continue to grow.
market researcher noun [ C ]
someone whose job is doing market research
ˈ market ˌ share noun [ U ]
the number of things that a company sells compared with the number of things of
the same type that other companies sell
The company has increased its market share.
ˈ market ˌ town noun [ C ]
a small town in the countryside which has a regular market and acts as a business
centre for surrounding farms and villages
a quiet market town in Northumberland
marking noun [ C usually plural ]
a mark which makes it possible to recognize something
There are a couple of fish with blue markings, and a few more with gold stripes
down the side.
The army said the relief flight would be too dangerous as none of its helicopters
had Red Cross markings.
See picture mark
markka noun [ C ]
the standard unit of money used in Finland before they started using the euro
markka noun [ C ]
the standard unit of money used in Finland before they started using the euro
marksman noun [ C ]
someone who can shoot a gun very accurately
Police marksmen were called to the scene.
marksmanship noun [ U ]
skill in shooting
markswoman noun [ C ]
a female marksman
She was the first British markswoman to win a medal in the Olympic Games.
mark-up noun [ C ]
the amount by which the price of something is increased before it is sold again
The usual mark-up on clothes is about 20 percent.
marmalade noun [ U ]
a soft substance with a sweet but slightly bitter taste, made by cooking fruit such
as oranges with sugar to preserve it. It is eaten on bread, usually for breakfast.
ˌ marmalade ˈ cat noun [ C ] UK
a cat whose fur is dark orange with small strips of yellow or brown
marmoset noun [ C ]
a very small monkey from the tropical forests of South and Central America which
has large eyes, thick fur, a long tail covered in hair and long curved and pointed nails
maroon noun [ C or U ] , adjective
(of) a dark reddish purple colour
marooned adjective
left in a place from which you cannot escape
What would you miss most if you found yourself marooned on a desert island?
The police are advising motorists marooned by the blizzards to stay in their cars
until the rescue services can reach them.
maroon verb [ T ]
marque noun [ C ]
a name of a range of cars, which is sometimes different from the name of the
company that produces them
marque noun [ C ]
a name of a range of cars, which is sometimes different from the name of the
company that produces them
marquee noun [ C ] TENT
1. UK a large tent used for eating and drinking in at events held mainly outside
that involve a lot of people
We're planning to hold the wedding reception in a marquee in the garden.
marquee noun [ C ] ROOF
2. US a roof-like structure which sticks out over the entrance to a public building,
especially a theatre, and on which there is usually a sign
marquee adjective [ before noun ] US
being the main performer or sports person in a show, film, sports event, etc. or
being the performer, etc. whose name will attract most people to the show, film, etc
The studio chiefs wanted a marquee name in the lead role, not some unknown.
marquetry noun [ U ]
a decorative pattern on a piece of furniture which consists of thin sheets of very
shiny wood of different colours fixed on the surface of the furniture
marquis , marquess noun [ C ]
(the title of) a British man of high social rank, between a duke and an earl
the Marquis of Blandford
marriage noun MAN AND WOMAN
1. [ C or U ] a legally accepted relationship between a woman and a man in which
they live as husband and wife, or the official ceremony which results in this
They had a long and happy marriage.
She went to live abroad after the break-up of her marriage.
She has two daughters by her first marriage.
the marriage ceremony
2. marriage of convenience
a marriage in which the partners have married, not because they love each other,
but in order to get an advantage, such as the right to live in the other partner's country
marriage noun COMBINATION
3. [ C ] a combination of two or more things
His music is a marriage of jazz, blues and pop.
marriageable adjective OLD-FASHIONED
suitable for marriage
a wealthy man of marriageable age
marriageable adjective OLD-FASHIONED
suitable for marriage
a wealthy man of marriageable age
ˈ marriage ˌ bureau noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED
an organization for people who want to get married or find a partner, which
people join in order to be introduced to each other
ˈ marriage cer ˌ tificate noun [ C ]
the document that shows two people are legally married
ˌ marriage ˈ guidance noun [ U ] UK ( US marriage counseling )
advice given by a trained person to people who are trying to find solutions to
problems with their marriage
a marriage guidance counsellor
married adjective
1. having a wife or husband
a married couple
We've been happily married for five years.
Please state whether you are single, cohabiting, married, separated, divorced or
widowed.
PC Smith was married with two children.
So how are you enjoying married life ?
She had an affair with a married man .
The survey reveals that two-thirds of married women earn less than their
husbands.
So how long have you been married to Nicky?
FIGURATIVE Rachel seems to be married to (= very involved with) her new job at
the moment, so we hardly ever see her.
2. get married
to begin a legal relationship with someone as their husband or wife
When are you getting married?
Chris and Debbie got married last summer.
Jamie's getting married to Laura.
ˈ married ˌ name noun [ C usually singular ]
A woman's married name is the family name of her husband
She used to be Rachel Elliot - I think her married name is Cartwright.
marrow noun TISSUE
1. [ U ] ( ALSO bone marrow ) soft tissue containing a lot of fat in the centre of a
bone
marrow noun VEGETABLE
marrow
2. [ C or U ] UK ( MAINLY US squash ) a long round vegetable with a thick green or
yellow skin, white flesh and a lot of seeds at its centre
be chilled/frozen to the marrow MAINLY UK
to be extremely cold
Look here, my boy, this simply won't do.
marrow noun TISSUE
1. [ U ] ( ALSO bone marrow ) soft tissue containing a lot of fat in the centre of a
bone
marrow noun VEGETABLE
marrow
2. [ C or U ] UK ( MAINLY US squash ) a long round vegetable with a thick green or
yellow skin, white flesh and a lot of seeds at its centre
be chilled/frozen to the marrow MAINLY UK
to be extremely cold
ˈ marrow ˌ bone noun [ C ]
a bone that contains a lot of marrow that can be eaten and which is used in
cooking, often to flavour soups
marrowfat (pea) noun [ C ]
a large green pea
marry verb MAN AND WOMAN
1. [ I or T ] to become the legally accepted husband or wife of someone in an
official or religious ceremony
Men tend to marry later than women.
Paul married Lucy four years ago.
They don't have any plans to marry at present.
2. [ T ] to perform the ceremony of marriage as a priest or official
The couple were married by the Archbishop of Canterbury .
marry verb COMBINE
3. to combine two different qualities
a design which marries fun with function
marry beneath you
to marry someone people think is not good enough for you because he or she is
from a lower social class
Marry in haste, repent at leisure. SAYING
This means that if you marry someone without knowing them well, later you will
feel sorry that you married them.
not be the marrying kind HUMOROUS
If a man is not the marrying kind, he does not want to be married. People
sometimes use this phrase to mean that the man is homosexual.
marry sb off phrasal verb [ M ]
to make certain that someone, especially a female member of your family, gets
married, or that they marry the person you have chosen
She was married off to the local doctor by the age of sixteen.
marry up ( sth ) phrasal verb [ M ]
If two things marry up or if you marry them up, they match or join together
We need to marry up the names on your list with those on my list and see what
the overlap is.
Mars noun [ S ]
the planet fourth in order of distance from the Sun, after the Earth and before
Jupiter
Mars is sometimes called the Red Planet because of its distinctive colour.
So is there life on Mars?
Martian adjective
Mars noun [ S ]
the planet fourth in order of distance from the Sun, after the Earth and before
Jupiter
Mars is sometimes called the Red Planet because of its distinctive colour.
So is there life on Mars?
Martian adjective
marsala noun [ U ]
a strong dark wine which is drunk when eating sweet dishes and is used in
cooking
marsh noun
1. [ C or U ] ground near a lake, river or the sea, that often floods and is always
wet
At the mouth of the river is a large area of marsh.
Rain had been falling steadily all day and the ground had become a marsh.
2. marshes
[ plural ] a large area of marsh
At low tide in the estuary, cows graze on the marshes.
marshal verb [ T ]
to bring together or organize people or things in order to achieve a particular aim
The fighting in the city followed reports of the rebels marshalling their forces in
the countryside.
The company is marshalling its forces/resources for a long court case.
They had marshalled an armada of 1000 boats and a squadron of 70 aircraft to
help clear up the oil.
It is unlikely that the rebels will be able to marshal as much firepower as the
government troops.
marshal noun [ C ] OFFICIAL
1. an official who is involved in the organization of a public event
Marshals struggled in vain to prevent spectators rushing onto the racetrack.
US The parade's grand marshal (= the person leading it) carried an elaborately
carved staff.
marshal noun [ C ] LAW
2. US a government official who is responsible for putting the decisions of a law
court into action
US marshals specialize in finding fugitives and escapees.
marshal noun [ C ] OFFICER
3. a title used for important officers in the armed forces of some countries
a field marshal/ air vice marshal
4. US a title used for police or fire officers in some parts of the United States
The deputy state fire marshal led the arson investigation.
Marshallese adjective
Marshallese adjective
ˈ Marshall ˌ Islander noun [ C ]
the Marshall Islands plural noun [ + sing/pl verb ]
ˌ Marshal of the ˌ Royal ˈ Air ˌ Force noun [ C ]
the highest rank in the British air force
ˈ marsh ˌ gas noun [ U ]
a gas produced in a marsh (= an area of very wet ground) by decaying plants
that are covered by water
marshland noun [ C or U ]
an area of marsh
marshmallow noun SWEET
1. [ C or U ] a soft, sweet pink or white food
Why don't we toast some marshmallows over the fire?
marshmallow noun COWARD
2. [ C ] INFORMAL HUMOROUS a person who is not strong, brave or confident
The situation called for someone tough, and I was a complete marshmallow.
marshy adjective
describes an area of land that is always wet; like a marsh
This area was very marshy before the drainage system was installed.
marsupial noun [ C ]
a type of mammal from Australasia or South or Central America which is not
completely developed when it is born and is carried around in a pocket on the mother's
body where it is fed and protected until it is completely developed
Marsupials include koalas, possums and kangaroos.
mart noun [ C ] MAINLY US AND IRISH ENGLISH
a market or shopping centre
Remember to get some bananas at the mart.
discount marts
mart noun [ C ] MAINLY US AND IRISH ENGLISH
a market or shopping centre
Remember to get some bananas at the mart.
discount marts
martial adjective
relating to soldiers, war or life in the armed forces
ˌ martial ˈ art noun [ C usually plural ]
a sport that is a traditional Japanese or Chinese form of fighting or defending
yourself
Kung fu and karate are martial arts.
ˌ martial ˈ law noun [ U ]
the control of a city, country, etc. by an army instead of by its usual leaders
Renegade forces captured the capital and declared/imposed martial law.
Martian noun [ C ]
a creature, usually appearing in films and books, who is believed to come from
Mars
martin noun [ C ]
a small bird like a swallow but with a shorter tail
martinet noun [ C ] FORMAL DISAPPROVING
someone who demands that rules and orders always be obeyed, even when it is
unnecessary or unreasonable to do so
martini noun [ C ]
an alcoholic drink which combines gin and vermouth
Martini noun [ U ]
TRADEMARK a type of vermouth
martyr noun [ C ]
1. a person who suffers very much or is killed because of their political or religious
beliefs, and is often admired because of it
a Christian/Islamic/religious martyr
She fought against racism all her life and died a martyr to the cause .
2. DISAPPROVING someone who tries to get sympathy from others when they have a
problem or too much work, usually having caused the problem or chosen to do the work
themselves
She offers to do extra work, then plays the martyr!
be a martyr to sth HUMOROUS
to often suffer from an illness
She's a martyr to migraine!
martyr verb [ T often passive ]
to kill someone because of their religious or political beliefs
martyrdom noun [ U ]
when someone suffers or is killed for their beliefs
martyrdom noun [ U ]
when someone suffers or is killed for their beliefs
martyred adjective
1. A martyred person has been killed because of their religious or political beliefs
a martyred saint
a martyred civil rights activist
2. DISAPPROVING showing that you are suffering so that people will have sympathy
for you
She was wearing a martyred expression .
marvel verb [ I ]
to show or experience great surprise or admiration
We paused to marvel at the view.
[ + that ] 'I often marvel that humans can treat each other so badly.
[ + speech ] "Just look at that waterfall! Isn't it amazing?" she marvelled.
marvel noun [ C ]
a thing or person that is very surprising or causes a lot of admiration
This miniature TV is the latest technological marvel from Japan.
It 's a marvel (to me) how they've managed to build the tunnel so quickly.
marvellous UK , US marvelous adjective
extremely good
He's done a marvellous job of the decorating.
It took me ages to get it right, but it was a marvellous feeling when I did.
It's marvellous how everyone's tried to help.
He was a truly marvellous storyteller.
We've achieved some marvellous results with this new drug.
marvellously , US marvelously adverb
We've had a few arguments over the years, but in general we get on
marvellously.
Marxism noun [ U ]
a social, political and economic theory which is based on the writings of Karl Marx
Marxist noun [ C ] , adjective
a Marxist government
Marxist-Leninist adjective [ before noun ] , noun , [ C ]
relating to the variation of Marxism that was developed by Lenin before the
political changes in Russia in 1917, or someone who follows this
Marxism-Leninism noun [ U ]
Marxist-Leninist adjective [ before noun ] , noun , [ C ]
relating to the variation of Marxism that was developed by Lenin before the
political changes in Russia in 1917, or someone who follows this
Marxism-Leninism noun [ U ]
marzipan noun [ U ]
a soft yellow or white food made from almonds , sugar and eggs that is used for
decorating cakes and making sweets
ˈ marzipan ˌ layer noun [ S ]
UK INFORMAL the people who have the jobs just below the highest level in a
company or organization
masc adjective
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR masculine (GRAMMAR)
mascara noun [ C or U ]
a thick dark liquid make-up that is used to make eyelashes dark and make them
appear thicker and longer
mascaraed adjective
long mascaraed lashes
mascarpone noun [ U ]
a soft white Italian cheese
mascot noun [ C ]
a person, animal or object which is believed to bring good luck, or which
represents an organization
a team mascot
The Olympic Games always has an official mascot.
masculine adjective MALE
1. having characteristics that are traditionally thought to be typical of or suitable
for men
a masculine appearance/voice
Compare feminine
masculine adjective GRAMMAR
2. ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION masc , ALSO m ) belonging to the group of nouns,
pronouns, etc. which are not feminine or neuter
The French word for 'sun' is masculine - 'le soleil', but the German word is
feminine - 'die Sonne'.
masculinity noun [ U ]
the characteristics that are traditionally thought to be typical of or suitable for
men
I don't think his masculinity is in question.
masculinity noun [ U ]
the characteristics that are traditionally thought to be typical of or suitable for
men
I don't think his masculinity is in question.
mash verb [ T ]
mash
1. to crush food, usually after cooking it, so that it forms a soft mass
Mash the potatoes and then mix in the butter and herbs.
2. MAINLY US INFORMAL to violently crush part of a body or an object
His face was badly mashed up in the accident.
mash up sth phrasal verb [ M ]
to crush something, especially food
He always mashes up his peas before he eats them.
mash noun [ U ] UK INFORMAL
mashed potatoes
sausage and mash
mashed adjective
crushed
UK mashed potato/ US AND UK mashed potatoes
ˌ mashed po ˈ tatoes noun [ U ] ( UK ALSO mashed potato )
potatoes that have been boiled and crushed until they are smooth
masher noun [ C ]
a kitchen utensil for mashing potatoes and other vegetables
a potato masher
mask noun [ C ] FACE COVER
1. a covering for all or part of the face which protects, hides or decorates the
person wearing it
a gas mask
a surgical mask
The bank robbers wore masks throughout the raid.
mask noun [ C ] APPEARANCE/BEHAVIOUR
2. appearance or behaviour that hides the reality
The newspaper revealed the sordid truth behind his mask of respectability.
sb's mask slips
If someone's mask slips, they do something which suddenly shows their real
character, when they have been pretending to be a different, usually nicer, type of
person.
mask verb [ T ]
to prevent something from being seen or noticed
I've put some flowers in there to mask the smell.
masked adjective
wearing a mask
Suddenly two masked gunmen burst into the shop and demanded all the cash in
the till.
masked adjective
wearing a mask
the till.
ˌ masked ˈ ball noun [ C ]
a formal dance where masks are worn
ˈ masking ˌ tape noun [ U ]
sticky paper tape that is used especially when painting to protect the edges of an
area you do not intend to paint
masochism noun [ U ]
1. the activity of getting sexual pleasure from being hurt or controlled by another
person
Compare sadism
2. INFORMAL the enjoyment of an activity or situation that most people would find
very unpleasant
I reckon you need to be into masochism to run marathons.
Compare sadism
masochist noun [ C ]
masochistic adjective
masochistic behaviour/pleasure/fantasies
Mason noun [ C ]
a Freemason
Masonic adjective
Masonry noun [ U ]
Freemasonry
mason noun [ C ]
1. a stonemason (= person who cuts stone)
2. US a bricklayer
the Mason-Dixon Line noun [ S ]
the border between the states of Maryland and Pennsylvania in the US,
traditionally considered to mark the division between the north and south of the US
masonry noun [ U ]
1. the bricks and pieces of stone that are used to make a building
Several of the firefighters were injured by falling masonry.
2. the skill of building with brick and stone
masked adjective
wearing a mask
the till.
ˌ masked ˈ ball noun [ C ]
a formal dance where masks are worn
ˈ masking ˌ tape noun [ U ]
sticky paper tape that is used especially when painting to protect the edges of an
area you do not intend to paint
masochism noun [ U ]
1. the activity of getting sexual pleasure from being hurt or controlled by another
person
Compare sadism
2. INFORMAL the enjoyment of an activity or situation that most people would find
very unpleasant
I reckon you need to be into masochism to run marathons.
Compare sadism
masochist noun [ C ]
masochistic adjective
masochistic behaviour/pleasure/fantasies
Mason noun [ C ]
a Freemason
Masonic adjective
Masonry noun [ U ]
Freemasonry
mason noun [ C ]
1. a stonemason (= person who cuts stone)
2. US a bricklayer
the Mason-Dixon Line noun [ S ]
the border between the states of Maryland and Pennsylvania in the US,
traditionally considered to mark the division between the north and south of the US
masonry noun [ U ]
1. the bricks and pieces of stone that are used to make a building
Several of the firefighters were injured by falling masonry.
2. the skill of building with brick and stone
masque noun [ C ]
a theatrical entertainment including poetry, singing and dancing which was
performed in England in the 16th and 17th centuries, especially at a royal court (=
official home of a king or queen)
masquerade noun [ C or U ]
behaviour that is intended to prevent the truth about something unpleasant or not
wanted from becoming known
They kept up the masquerade of being happily married for over thirty years.
masquerade verb
masquerade as sb/sth phrasal verb
to pretend or appear to be someone or something
Hooligans masquerading as football fans have once again caused disturbances.
mass adjective [ before noun ]
having an effect on or involving a large number of people or forming a large
amount
weapons of mass destruction
a mass murderer
mass starvation
Opposition groups plan to stage mass demonstrations all over the country.
mass noun LARGE AMOUNT
1. [ S ] a large amount of something that has no particular shape or arrangement
The explosion reduced the church to a mass of rubble.
The forest is a mass of colour in autumn.
2. ( ALSO Mass ) [ C or U ] a religious ceremony in some Christian churches based
on Christ's last meal with his disciples , or music written for the parts of this ceremony
to go to Mass
See also Communion
3. masses
[ plural ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL a lot
[ + to infinitive ] I've got masses to do at the weekend.
There were masses of people in town today.
4. the mass of sth
most of something
The mass of the people support the government's reforms.
mass noun SOLID LUMP
5. [ C ] a solid lump with no clear shape
The sauce was now a sticky mass at the bottom of the pan.
mass noun ORDINARY PEOPLE
6. the ˈ masses
the ordinary people who form the largest group in a society
He was popular with the aristocracy but failed to win the support of the masses.
mass noun PHYSICS
7. [ C ] SPECIALIZED (in physics) the amount of matter in any solid object or in any
volume of liquid or gas
The acceleration of a body equals the force exerted on it divided by its mass.
mass verb [ I ]
to come together in large numbers
Thousands of troops have massed along the border in preparation for an invasion.
mass adjective [ before noun ]
having an effect on or involving a large number of people or forming a large
amount
weapons of mass destruction
a mass murderer
mass starvation
Opposition groups plan to stage mass demonstrations all over the country.
mass noun LARGE AMOUNT
1. [ S ] a large amount of something that has no particular shape or arrangement
The explosion reduced the church to a mass of rubble.
The forest is a mass of colour in autumn.
2. ( ALSO Mass ) [ C or U ] a religious ceremony in some Christian churches based
on Christ's last meal with his disciples , or music written for the parts of this ceremony
to go to Mass
See also Communion
3. masses
[ plural ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL a lot
[ + to infinitive ] I've got masses to do at the weekend.
There were masses of people in town today.
4. the mass of sth
most of something
The mass of the people support the government's reforms.
mass noun SOLID LUMP
5. [ C ] a solid lump with no clear shape
The sauce was now a sticky mass at the bottom of the pan.
mass noun ORDINARY PEOPLE
6. the ˈ masses
the ordinary people who form the largest group in a society
He was popular with the aristocracy but failed to win the support of the masses.
mass noun PHYSICS
7. [ C ] SPECIALIZED (in physics) the amount of matter in any solid object or in any
volume of liquid or gas
The acceleration of a body equals the force exerted on it divided by its mass.
mass verb [ I ]
to come together in large numbers
Thousands of troops have massed along the border in preparation for an invasion.
massacre noun [ C ]
1. an act of killing a lot of people
He ordered the massacre of 2, 000 women and children.
2. INFORMAL a bad defeat, especially in sport
The changes to the team come after their 7-2 massacre in the final.
massacre verb [ T ]
1. to kill many people in a short period of time
Hundreds of civilians were massacred in the raid.
2. INFORMAL to defeat an opponent very badly in a competition or election
England was massacred 5-0 by France in the semi-final.
massage verb [ T ] RUB BODY
1. to rub and press someone's body with regular repeated movements, in order to
relax them or to reduce stiffness or pain in their joints (= places where two bones are
connected) or muscles
Would you massage my shoulders?
massage verb [ T ] LIE
2. to try to make facts or numbers appear better than they really are in order to
deceive somebody
Television companies have been massaging their viewing figures in order to
attract more advertising revenue.
massage sb's ego
to praise someone in order to make them think they are better than they are
massage noun [ C or U ]
the activity of rubbing or pressing parts of someone's body in order to make them
relax or to stop their muscles hurting
a back/foot/head massage
a qualified massage therapist
She gave me a massage.
ˈ massage ˌ parlour UK , US massage parlor noun [ C ] TREATMENT
1. a place where you can pay someone to give you a massage
ˈ massage ˌ parlour UK , US massage parlor noun [ C ] SEX
2. a place where a person can pay to have sex
massed adjective [ before noun ]
brought together in large numbers
Every day, massed ranks of tourists pass slowly through the rooms of the palace.
masseur noun [ C ]
a person whose job it is to give massages to people
masseuse noun [ C ]
a female masseur
massif noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a group or area of mountains
massive adjective
very large in size, amount or number
They've got a massive house.
She died after taking a massive overdose of drugs.
If the drought continues, deaths will occur on a massive scale.
massively adverb
The film is a massively (= very) ambitious project.
massiveness noun [ U ]
ˌ mass ˈ mailing noun [ C ]
US FOR mailshot
ˌ mass ˈ market noun [ C usually singular ]
A product that is designed for the mass market is intended to be bought by as
many people as possible, not just by people with a lot of money or a special interest
Advances in microchip technology have made these cameras smaller and cheaper
and affordable to the mass market.
the ˌ mass ˈ media plural noun [ + sing/pl verb ]
newspapers, television and radio
The mass media has become one of the main instruments of political change.
ˌ mass ˈ murder noun [ C or U ]
the act of killing a lot of people
The regime tried to silence dissent with a programme of mass murder.
masseur noun [ C ]
masseuse noun [ C ]
a female masseur
massive adjective
massively adverb
US FOR mailshot
masseur noun [ C ]
masseuse noun [ C ]
a female masseur
massive adjective
massively adverb
US FOR mailshot
mass-produce verb [ T ]
to produce a lot of goods cheaply using machines in a factory
mass production noun [ U ]
mass-produced adjective
mass-produced souvenirs
ˌ mass ˈ transit noun [ U ]
US FOR public transport
masseur noun [ C ]
masseuse noun [ C ]
a female masseur
massive adjective
massively adverb
US FOR mailshot
mass-produce verb [ T ]
to produce a lot of goods cheaply using machines in a factory
mass production noun [ U ]
mass-produced adjective
mass-produced souvenirs
mast noun [ C ] BOAT
1. a tall pole on a boat or ship that supports its sails
See picture ships and boats 1
mast noun [ C ] RADIO/TELEVISION
2. a tall metal pole used to support an aerial for radio or television signals
a television/radio mast
mast noun [ C ] FLAG
3. a pole that holds a flag
mastectomy noun [ C ]
a medical operation to remove a woman's breast
a partial mastectomy (= when part of the breast is removed)
a double mastectomy (= when both breasts are removed)
master noun [ C ] CONTROLLER
1. a person who has control over or responsibility for someone or something, or
who is the most important or influential (= having most influence) person in a situation
or organization
OLD-FASHIONED a slave and his master
With careful training, a dog will obey its master completely.
UK The Master of St. John's College will be launching the appeal.
master noun [ C ] SKILLED PERSON
2. a person who is very skilled in a particular job or activity
He was a master of disguise.
3. a famous and very skilled painter
This painting is clearly the work of a master.
master noun [ C ] TEACHER
4. UK OLD-FASHIONED a male school teacher
Mr Wells was my Latin master at school.
See also headmaster
master noun [ C ] COPY
5. an original version of something from which copies can be made
I've sent her a copy and have kept the master.
You should keep the master copy (= the original) in a safe place.
be your own master
to be independent and able to make your own decisions
master verb [ T ] CONTROL
1. to learn to control an emotion or feeling
I finally mastered my fear of flying.
master verb [ T ] LEARN
2. to learn how to do something well
to master a technique
She lived in Italy for several years but never quite mastered the language .
He quickly mastered the art of interviewing people.
master adjective [ before noun ]
extremely skilled
a master craftsman
a master chef
ˈ master ˌ bedroom noun [ C ]
the largest bedroom in a house
ˈ master ˌ bedroom noun [ C ]
the largest bedroom in a house
ˈ master ˌ class noun [ C ]
a class taught by someone who has an expert knowledge or skill in a particular
area, especially in music
masterful adjective ABLE TO CONTROL
1. able to control people and situations
Once she became a prosecutor, she quickly established herself as a masterful trial
lawyer.
He has a deep, masterful voice.
masterful adjective SKILFUL
2. If an action is masterful, it is very skilful
a masterful performance
masterfully adverb
ˈ master ˌ key noun [ C ]
a key which can be used to open any of several different locks
masterly adjective
done extremely well
She gave a masterly performance as Kate in 'The Taming of the Shrew'.
mastermind verb [ T ]
to plan a difficult activity, often a crime, in detail and make certain that it happens
successfully
He's believed to have masterminded the attacks.
mastermind noun [ C ]
a criminal mastermind
ˌ Master of ˈ Arts noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MA )
an advanced college or university degree in a subject such as literature, language,
history or social science, or a person who has this degree
ˌ master of ˈ ceremonies noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MC )
a person who makes certain that official events happen correctly, for example by
introducing performers at the right time
ˌ Master of ˈ Philosophy noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MPhil )
in the UK, an advanced college or university degree in any subject, or a person
who has this degree
ˌ Master of ˈ Science noun [ C ] ( UK ABBREVIATION MSc , US ABBREVIATION MS )
an advanced college or university degree in a scientific subject, or a person who
has this degree
masterpiece noun [ C ]
1. ( ALSO masterwork ) a work of art such as a painting, film or book which is done
or made with great skill, and is often a person's greatest work
'The Last Supper' is widely regarded as Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece.
See also chef d'oeuvre
2. a skilful or clever example of something
Her press conference was a masterpiece of media manipulation.
ˈ master ˌ plan noun [ C ]
an organized set of decisions made by one person or a team of people about how
to do something in the future
Master's noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR a Master's degree
She has a Master's in biotechnology.
Master's degree noun [ C ] ( INFORMAL Master's )
an advanced college or university degree
An MA and a MSc are both Master's degrees.
masterstroke noun [ C usually singular ] MAINLY UK
an action which is very clever and produces success
His decision to change the team's formation for the final match was a
masterstroke.
ˈ master ˌ switch noun [ C ]
a switch that can be used to turn on or off power to all the lights or machines in a
building
ˌ Master of ˈ Philosophy noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MPhil )
in the UK, an advanced college or university degree in any subject, or a person
who has this degree
ˌ Master of ˈ Science noun [ C ] ( UK ABBREVIATION MSc , US ABBREVIATION MS )
an advanced college or university degree in a scientific subject, or a person who
has this degree
masterpiece noun [ C ]
1. ( ALSO masterwork ) a work of art such as a painting, film or book which is done
or made with great skill, and is often a person's greatest work
'The Last Supper' is widely regarded as Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece.
See also chef d'oeuvre
2. a skilful or clever example of something
Her press conference was a masterpiece of media manipulation.
ˈ master ˌ plan noun [ C ]
an organized set of decisions made by one person or a team of people about how
to do something in the future
Master's noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR a Master's degree
She has a Master's in biotechnology.
Master's degree noun [ C ] ( INFORMAL Master's )
an advanced college or university degree
An MA and a MSc are both Master's degrees.
masterstroke noun [ C usually singular ] MAINLY UK
an action which is very clever and produces success
His decision to change the team's formation for the final match was a
masterstroke.
ˈ master ˌ switch noun [ C ]
a switch that can be used to turn on or off power to all the lights or machines in a
building
mastery noun [ U ] CONTROL
1. complete control of something
her mastery of the situation
mastery noun [ U ] SKILL
2. If someone has a mastery of something, they are extremely skilled at it
her mastery of the violin
masthead noun [ C ]
the title of a newspaper or magazine which is printed at the top of the front page
masticate verb [ I or T ] FORMAL
to chew (= crush with the teeth) food
mastication noun [ U ]
mastiff noun [ C ]
a large strong short-haired dog
mastitis noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
painful swelling of the breast or the udder (= the part of a cow which produces
milk) usually because of an infection
mastitis noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
painful swelling of the breast or the udder (= the part of a cow which produces
milk) usually because of an infection
masturbate verb
1. [ I ] to touch or rub your sexual organs in order to give yourself sexual
pleasure
2. [ T ] to touch or rub someone's sexual organs in order to give them sexual
pleasure
masturbation noun [ U ]
masturbatory adjective
masturbatory fantasies
mat noun [ C ] FLOOR
1. a small piece of strong material which covers and protects part of a floor
Wipe your feet on the mat before you come inside.
See also doormat
mat noun [ C ] TABLE
2. a small piece of cloth, cardboard or plastic which is put on a surface such as a
table to protect it
a beer mat
a place mat
mat noun [ C ] SPORT
3. a piece of thick rubber or other soft material used in some sports for people to
lie or fall on
Please remember to bring a mat and a towel with you to the next aerobics class.
mat noun [ C ] LAYER
4. a thick layer of something, such as grass or hair, which is twisted together
untidily
The top few buttons on his shirt were open, revealing a mat of dark hair on his
chest.
matador noun [ C ]
a man who fights and kills bulls (= male cows) at a bullfight
Compare picador ; toreador
match noun COMPETITION
1. [ C ] MAINLY UK ( US USUALLY game ) a sports competition or event in which two
people or teams compete against each other
a football/cricket/tennis match
We won/lost the match.
Liverpool have a match with (= against) Blackburn next week.
See picture match
2. the man/woman of the match MAINLY UK
the person who has scored the most points or played the best in a match
match noun STICK
match
3. [ C ] a short thin stick made of wood or cardboard and covered with a special
chemical at one end which burns when rubbed firmly against a rough surface
a box of matches
You should always strike a match away from you.
4. put a match to sth UK
to make something burn
match noun EQUAL
5. [ S ] a person or thing which is equal to another person or thing in strength,
speed or quality
6. be no match for sth/sb
to be less powerful or effective than someone or something else
Gibson ran well but was no match for the young Italian.
match noun SUITABLE
7. [ S ] something which is similar to or combines well with something else
The curtains look great - they're a perfect match for the sofa.
8. [ S ] OLD-FASHIONED If two people who are having a relationship are a good
match, they are very suitable for each other
Theirs is a match made in heaven (= a very good relationship) .
match verb EQUAL
1. [ T ] to be as good as someone or something else
It would be difficult to match the service this airline gives its customers.
match verb LOOK SIMILAR
2. [ I or T ] If two colours, designs or objects match, they are similar or look
attractive together
Do you think these two colours match?
Does this shirt match these trousers?
a sofa with curtains to match
match sb against sb phrasal verb
If one team or player is matched against another team or player, they are made
to compete against each other.
Germany has been matched against Holland in the semi-final.
match up phrasal verb SAME
1. If two pieces of information match up, they are the same
Their accounts of what happened that evening don't match up.
match up phrasal verb SIMILAR
2. If two things match up, they are similar and are designed to connect or to work
together
If the teeth on the cogs don't match up properly (= If they are not in the correct
place) , the mechanism will jam.
match up phrasal verb EQUALLY GOOD
3. UK to be as good as another thing, person or experience
There was so much hype beforehand that it would have been difficult for the film
to match up to/with our expectations of it.
match sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
If you match up a design or material, you look for something that would look
good with it and be similar to it
I'm trying to match up this wallpaper with some suitable curtain material.
match sth/sb up phrasal verb [ M ]
to find a similarity or connection between two things or people
Can you match up these songs with the bands who sang them?
See picture match
match noun STICK
match
a box of matches
match noun EQUAL
speed or quality
match noun SUITABLE
match verb EQUAL
attractive together
together
matchbox noun [ C ]
a small box containing matches
-matched suffix
well-matched/ill-matched
similar and suitable for each other/different and not suitable for each other
an ill-matched couple
match-fixing noun [ U ]
dishonest activity to make sure that one team wins a particular sports match
matching adjective [ before noun ]
having the same colour or pattern as something else
a green dress with matching green handbag
See picture match
matchless adjective
of a very high standard or quality and better than everything else
her matchless beauty
matchless prose
matchlessly adverb
matchmaker noun [ C ]
a person who tries to arrange marriages or romantic relationships between people
matchmaking noun [ U ]
matchplay noun [ U ]
a type of golf competition between two, three or four players where your score is
calculated by how many holes you win rather than how many hits you take to complete
the 18 holes
He said that he wouldn't be playing in the Ryder Cup because he wasn't interested
in matchplay.
She won three world matchplay championships in the 1980s.
ˌ match ˈ point noun [ C ]
a situation in a game such as tennis when the player who is winning will win the
match if they get the next point
See picture match
match noun STICK
match
a box of matches
match noun EQUAL
speed or quality
match noun SUITABLE
match verb EQUAL
attractive together
together
matchbox noun [ C ]
-matched suffix
See picture match
matchless adjective
matchless prose
matchlessly adverb
the 18 holes
in matchplay.
matchstick noun [ C ]
the short wooden stick of a match, or the match itself
He likes making models out of matchsticks.
See picture match
ˈ matchstick ˌ figure noun [ C ]
a stick figure
matchwood noun [ U ] UK
the very small pieces of wood that are left after something wooden has been
destroyed
mate noun [ C ] FRIEND
1. UK INFORMAL a friend
We've been mates since our school days.
I usually play football with some of my mates from the office on Saturdays.
She's my best mate.
2. UK INFORMAL used as a friendly way of talking to someone, especially a man
Have you got a light, mate?
mate noun [ C ] SEXUAL PARTNER
3. an animal's sexual partner
Peacocks use their beautiful tails to attract mates.
mate noun [ C ] HELPER
4. UK a person who is employed to help a skilled worker
a carpenter's/plumber's mate
mate noun [ C ] SHIP
5. a type of officer on a trading ship rather than a military ship
He had worked as a ship's mate for ten years.
mate verb [ I or T ]
to have sex and produce young, or to make animals do this
Tigers mate repeatedly over a period of several days.
Mating a horse with a donkey produces a mule.
mate for life
If animals mate for life, they keep the same sexual partner for their whole life.
-mate suffix
used to show that two people share a space or are involved in the same activity
flat mate
team-mate
workmate
mater noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED OR HUMOROUS
mother
material noun PHYSICAL SUBSTANCE
1. [ C ] a physical substance which things can be made from
building materials, such as stone
Crude oil is used as the raw (= basic) material for making plastics.
material noun INFORMATION
2. [ C or U ] information used when writing something such as a book, or
information produced in various forms to help people or to advertise products
I'm in the process of collecting material for an article that I'm writing.
material noun CLOTH
3. [ C or U ] cloth which can be used to make things such as clothes
How much material will you need to make the skirt?
material noun EQUIPMENT
4. materials
[ plural ] equipment that you need for a particular activity
"Do we need any writing materials?" "Only a pen and a pencil."
teaching materials
material adjective PHYSICAL
1. relating to physical objects or money rather than emotions or the spiritual
world
the material world
Material wealth never interested her.
material adjective IMPORTANT
2. FORMAL important or having an important effect
If you have any information that is material to the investigation, you should state
it now.
materialism noun [ U ] MONEY
1. the belief that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life
So have we become a self-centred society, preoccupied with materialism?
materialism noun [ U ] PHYSICAL
2. SPECIALIZED the belief that only physical matter exists and the spiritual world
does not
materialist noun [ C ] MONEY
1. someone who believes that having money and possessions is the most
important thing in life
materialist noun [ C ] PHYSICAL
2. SPECIALIZED someone who believes that only physical matter exists and the
spiritual world does not
materialist adjective SPECIALIZED
relating to the belief that only physical matter exists
materialistic adjective
believing that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life
materialize , UK USUALLY materialise verb [ I ]
1. If an object materializes, it appears suddenly
Suddenly a lorry appeared in front of her - it seemed to materialize out of
nowhere.
2. If an idea or hope materializes, it becomes real
She was promised a promotion but it never materialized.
Her hopes of becoming a painter never materialized.
materialization , UK USUALLY materialisation noun [ C or U ]
materially adverb MONEY
1. in a way that relates to money and possessions
Materially, of course, we're better off.
materially adverb IMPORTANT
2. FORMAL in an important or significant way
Even if mistakes were made in the counting, they wouldn't have materially
affected the results.
maternal adjective
1. behaving or feeling in the way that a mother does towards her child, especially
in a kind, loving way
maternal instincts
She is very maternal towards her staff.
Compare paternal
2. related to a mother's side of the family
Her maternal grandmother (= mother's mother) is still alive.
maternally adverb
maternity noun [ U ] FORMAL
the state of being a mother
maternity adjective [ before noun ]
related to pregnancy and birth
maternity clothes
ma ˈ ternity ˌ leave noun [ U ]
a period in which a woman is legally allowed to be absent from work in the weeks
before and after she gives birth
ma ˈ ternity ˌ ward noun [ C ]
the part of a hospital in which women give birth and where they are taken care of
after giving birth
ˈ mates' ˌ rate noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a cheaper price than normal because the buyer is a friend
See picture match
match noun STICK
match
a box of matches
match noun EQUAL
speed or quality
match noun SUITABLE
match verb EQUAL
attractive together
together
matchbox noun [ C ]
-matched suffix
See picture match
matchless adjective
matchless prose
matchlessly adverb
the 18 holes
in matchplay.
matchstick noun [ C ]
the short wooden stick of a match, or the match itself
He likes making models out of matchsticks.
See picture match
ˈ matchstick ˌ figure noun [ C ]
a stick figure
matchwood noun [ U ] UK
the very small pieces of wood that are left after something wooden has been
destroyed
mate noun [ C ] FRIEND
1. UK INFORMAL a friend
We've been mates since our school days.
I usually play football with some of my mates from the office on Saturdays.
She's my best mate.
2. UK INFORMAL used as a friendly way of talking to someone, especially a man
Have you got a light, mate?
mate noun [ C ] SEXUAL PARTNER
3. an animal's sexual partner
Peacocks use their beautiful tails to attract mates.
mate noun [ C ] HELPER
4. UK a person who is employed to help a skilled worker
a carpenter's/plumber's mate
mate noun [ C ] SHIP
5. a type of officer on a trading ship rather than a military ship
He had worked as a ship's mate for ten years.
mate verb [ I or T ]
to have sex and produce young, or to make animals do this
Tigers mate repeatedly over a period of several days.
Mating a horse with a donkey produces a mule.
mate for life
If animals mate for life, they keep the same sexual partner for their whole life.
-mate suffix
used to show that two people share a space or are involved in the same activity
flat mate
team-mate
workmate
mater noun [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED OR HUMOROUS
mother
material noun PHYSICAL SUBSTANCE
1. [ C ] a physical substance which things can be made from
building materials, such as stone
Crude oil is used as the raw (= basic) material for making plastics.
material noun INFORMATION
2. [ C or U ] information used when writing something such as a book, or
information produced in various forms to help people or to advertise products
I'm in the process of collecting material for an article that I'm writing.
material noun CLOTH
3. [ C or U ] cloth which can be used to make things such as clothes
How much material will you need to make the skirt?
material noun EQUIPMENT
4. materials
[ plural ] equipment that you need for a particular activity
"Do we need any writing materials?" "Only a pen and a pencil."
teaching materials
material adjective PHYSICAL
1. relating to physical objects or money rather than emotions or the spiritual
world
the material world
Material wealth never interested her.
material adjective IMPORTANT
2. FORMAL important or having an important effect
If you have any information that is material to the investigation, you should state
it now.
materialism noun [ U ] MONEY
1. the belief that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life
So have we become a self-centred society, preoccupied with materialism?
materialism noun [ U ] PHYSICAL
2. SPECIALIZED the belief that only physical matter exists and the spiritual world
does not
materialist noun [ C ] MONEY
1. someone who believes that having money and possessions is the most
important thing in life
materialist noun [ C ] PHYSICAL
2. SPECIALIZED someone who believes that only physical matter exists and the
spiritual world does not
materialist adjective SPECIALIZED
relating to the belief that only physical matter exists
materialistic adjective
believing that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life
materialize , UK USUALLY materialise verb [ I ]
1. If an object materializes, it appears suddenly
Suddenly a lorry appeared in front of her - it seemed to materialize out of
nowhere.
2. If an idea or hope materializes, it becomes real
She was promised a promotion but it never materialized.
Her hopes of becoming a painter never materialized.
materialization , UK USUALLY materialisation noun [ C or U ]
materially adverb MONEY
1. in a way that relates to money and possessions
Materially, of course, we're better off.
materially adverb IMPORTANT
2. FORMAL in an important or significant way
Even if mistakes were made in the counting, they wouldn't have materially
affected the results.
maternal adjective
1. behaving or feeling in the way that a mother does towards her child, especially
in a kind, loving way
maternal instincts
She is very maternal towards her staff.
Compare paternal
2. related to a mother's side of the family
Her maternal grandmother (= mother's mother) is still alive.
maternally adverb
maternity noun [ U ] FORMAL
the state of being a mother
maternity adjective [ before noun ]
related to pregnancy and birth
maternity clothes
ma ˈ ternity ˌ leave noun [ U ]
a period in which a woman is legally allowed to be absent from work in the weeks
before and after she gives birth
ma ˈ ternity ˌ ward noun [ C ]
the part of a hospital in which women give birth and where they are taken care of
after giving birth
ˈ mates' ˌ rate noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a cheaper price than normal because the buyer is a friend
matey adjective UK INFORMAL
friendly
They've been very matey since they started working together.
mateyness noun [ U ]
matey noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
used an informal form of address
Are you all right, matey?
mathematician noun [ C ]
someone who studies, teaches or is an expert in mathematics
mathematics noun [ U ] ( UK INFORMAL maths , US INFORMAL math ) FORMAL
the study of numbers, shapes and space using reason and usually a special
system of symbols and rules for organizing them
See also algebra ; arithmetic ; geometry
mathematical adjective
a mathematical formula
mathematically adverb
matinée noun [ C ]
a film shown or a play performed during the day, especially in the afternoon
ˈ matinée ˌ idol noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a male actor, especially in films of the 1930s and 1940s, who was very attractive
to women
matins noun [ U ]
the morning ceremony in some Christian churches
matriarch noun [ C ]
an old and powerful woman in a family, or the female leader of a society in which
power passes from mother to daughter
Compare patriarch
matriarchal adjective
a matriarchal society
Compare patriarchal
matriarchy noun [ C or U ]
a type of society in which women have most of the authority and power, or a
society in which property belongs to women and is given to children by women rather
than men
Compare patriarchy
matricide , noun [ U ]
a crime in which a person kills their mother
Compare parricide ; patricide
matriculate verb [ I ] FORMAL
to be formally admitted to study at a university or college
matriculation noun [ C or U ]
matrimonial adjective FORMAL
related to marriage or people who are married
matrimonial adjective FORMAL
related to marriage or people who are married
matrimony noun [ U ] FORMAL
the state of being married
matrix noun DEVELOPMENT
1. [ C ] FORMAL the set of conditions which provides a system in which something
grows or develops
Europe is remaking itself politically within the matrix of the European Community.
matrix noun MATHEMATICS
2. [ C ] SPECIALIZED a group of numbers or other symbols arranged in a rectangle
which can be used together as a single unit to solve particular mathematical problems
matrix noun SUBSTANCE
3. [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED a substance in which other things are fixed, buried, etc
The fossils lie embedded in a matrix of shale and sandstone.
matron noun [ C ] SCHOOL
1. UK OLD-FASHIONED a female nurse in a school
matron noun [ C ] HOSPITAL
2. UK OLD-FASHIONED FOR senior nursing officer
matron noun [ C ] PRISON
3. US a woman who is in charge of female prisoners
matron noun [ C ] MARRIED WOMAN
4. US a married woman, especially one who is old or a widow (= a woman whose
husband has died)
matronly adjective OFTEN DISAPPROVING
describes a woman, usually one who is not young, who is fat and does not dress
in a fashionable way
matt UK , US matte adjective
describes a surface or colour or paint that is not shiny
The paint is available in matt or gloss finish.
Compare emulsion ; gloss
matted adjective
twisted into a firm, untidy mass
Her hair was matted with mud and rain.
matted adjective
twisted into a firm, untidy mass
Her hair was matted with mud and rain.
matter noun SITUATION
1. [ C ] a situation or subject which is being dealt with or considered
Could I talk to you about a personal matter?
Alois denied any knowledge of the matter.
Will you phone me back - it's a matter of some importance.
Talking about the world's problems is one thing, but solving them is another
matter altogether (= is completely different) .
2. matters
[ plural ] the situation being dealt with or being discussed
Her resignation is not going to help matters.
3. to make matters worse
used to say that something has made a bad or difficult situation worse
Three of our players were ill, and to make matters worse, our main scorer had
broken his ankle.
4. be a matter of confidence/luck/waiting, etc.
If something is a matter of confidence/luck/waiting, etc. that is all you need for it
to happen
Baking a cake isn't difficult - it's just a matter of following the recipe.
5. be no laughing matter
to be very serious and not a situation that people should joke about
Being arrested by the police is no laughing matter.
matter noun PROBLEM
6. the matter
the reason for pain, worry or a problem
What's the matter? Why are you crying?
What's the matter with your hand? It's bleeding.
Is anything the matter?
I don't know what the matter is with the car, but it won't start.
matter noun SUBSTANCE
7. [ U ] physical substance in the universe
Some scientists believe that there is about ten times as much matter in the
universe as astronomers have observed.
matter noun TYPE
8. [ U ] a substance or things of a particular type
advertising/ printed matter
Do you find the subject matter of the book (= the subject that the book deals
with) interesting?
matter noun SMALL AMOUNT
9. [ S ] used in expressions describing how small an amount or period of time is
The interview was over in a matter of minutes.
She complained he had short-changed her, but it was only a matter of a few
pence.
as a matter of course
If something is done as a matter of course, it is a usual part of the way in which
things are done and is not special
Safety precautions are observed as a matter of course.
be (only) a matter of time
If it is (only) a matter of time until something happens, it is certain to happen but
you do not know when it will happen
It's only a matter of time before he's forced to resign.
be a matter of life and/or death
to be very serious
And if you miss the bus, well, it's not a matter of life and death.
be a matter of opinion
If something is a matter of opinion, different people have different opinions about
it
Both performances were excellent, it's simply a matter of opinion as to whose was
better.
be a matter of record
If a fact is a matter of record, it is generally known to be true.
for that matter
used to show that a statement is true in another situation
Ming's never been to Spain, or to any European country for that matter.
the matter in hand UK ( US the matter at hand )
the subject or situation being considered
Do these figures have any bearing on the matter in hand?
no matter MAINLY UK
it is not a problem
"I haven't got that form with me." "No matter - here's another."
no matter what/when/why, etc.
used to emphasize that something can not be changed
I never seem to lose any weight, no matter how hard I try.
Anyway, we've got to get to the airport on time, no matter what.
take matters into your own hands
to deal with a problem yourself because the people who should have dealt with it
have failed to do so
When the police failed to catch her son's murderer, she decided to take matters
into her own hands.
That's a matter of opinion.
said to show that you do not agree with something that has just been said
"Anyway, she's a wonderful mother." "That's a matter of opinion."
matter verb [ I ]
to be important, or to affect what happens
We were late but it didn't seem to matter.
"What did you say?" "Oh, it doesn't matter."
[ + question word ] It doesn't matter wh at you wear - just as long as you come.
[ + that ] It didn't matter that our best player was injured after 10 minutes - we
still won.
I know Charles doesn't think this project is important, but it matters to me.
matter-of-fact adjective
not showing feelings or emotion, especially in a situation when emotion would be
expected
He spoke in a very matter-of-fact way about the accident.
matter-of-factly adverb
matter-of-factness noun [ U ]
matter-of-fact adjective
not showing feelings or emotion, especially in a situation when emotion would be
expected
He spoke in a very matter-of-fact way about the accident.
matter-of-factly adverb
matter-of-factness noun [ U ]
matting noun [ U ]
strong rough material, often woven, which is used to cover floors
straw/coconut matting
mattress noun [ C ]
mattress
the part of a bed, made of a strong cloth cover filled with firm material, which
makes the bed comfortable to lie on
maturation noun [ U ] FORMAL DEVELOP MENTALLY
1. MAINLY APPROVING the process of becoming completely developed mentally or
emotionally
maturation noun [ U ] FORMAL GROW PHYSICALLY
2. the process of becoming completely grown physically
mature adjective LIKE AN ADULT
1. MAINLY APPROVING Mature people behave like adults in a way that shows they are
well developed emotionally
He's very mature for his age.
2. A mature decision is one which is made after a lot of careful thought
Upon mature reflection, we find the accused guilty.
mature adjective PHYSICALLY GROWN
3. FORMAL completely grown physically
a mature adult
sexually mature
Mature male gorillas have silver-grey hairs on their backs.
mature oak trees
mature adjective FOOD
4. having a flavour that is completely developed
Do you prefer mild or mature cheddar?
mature adjective FINANCE
5. SPECIALIZED A mature investment is ready to be paid.
mature verb DEVELOP MENTALLY
1. [ I or T ] MAINLY APPROVING to become more developed mentally and emotionally
and behave in a responsible way
Girls are said to mature faster than boys.
He matured a lot while he was at college.
2. [ I ] MAINLY APPROVING If ideas, opinions, etc. mature, they reach an advanced or
developed state
It took several years for her ideas to mature.
mature verb GROW PHYSICALLY
3. [ I ] to become completely grown physically
Humans take longer to mature than most other animals.
mature verb FOOD
4. [ I or T ] to make food and wine old enough for the flavour to have developed
completely
The wine has been matured in oak vats.
The cheese is left to mature for two years.
mature verb FINANCE
5. [ I ] SPECIALIZED If an insurance agreement or an investment matures, it
becomes ready to be paid
The policy matures after fifteen years.
maturely adverb MAINLY APPROVING
in a mature and responsible way
maturely adverb MAINLY APPROVING
in a mature and responsible way
ma ˈ ture ˌ student noun [ C ] UK ( US older student , AUSTRALIAN mature age student
)
a student at a college or university who is older than the usual age
maturity noun [ U ] DEVELOP MENTALLY
1. MAINLY APPROVING the quality of behaving mentally and emotionally like an adult
2. MAINLY APPROVING a very advanced or developed form or state
maturity noun [ U ] FULL GROWTH
3. the state of being completely grown physically
How long does it take for the chicks to grow to maturity?
maturity noun [ U ] FINANCE
4. SPECIALIZED when an insurance agreement or investment becomes ready to be
paid
The investment reaches maturity after ten years.
maudlin adjective
feeling sad and having a lot of pity for yourself, especially after you have drunk a
lot of alcohol
maul verb [ T often passive ] ANIMAL
1. If an animal mauls someone, it attacks them and injures them with its teeth or
claws (= long sharp nails)
A small boy had been mauled by the neighbour's dog.
maul verb [ T often passive ] CRITICIZE
2. to criticize something or someone severely
Both films were mauled by the critics.
mauling noun [ S or U ]
severe criticism of someone or something
Her latest novel got a real mauling in the review that I read.
Mauritania noun [ U ]
Mauritania noun [ U ]
Mauritanian noun [ C ] , adjective
Mauritian noun [ C ] , adjective
Mauritius noun [ U ]
mausoleum noun [ C ]
a building in which the bodies of dead people are buried
mauve adjective , noun [ U ]
(having) a pale purple colour
maven noun [ C ] US INFORMAL
a person with good knowledge or understanding of a subject
maverick noun [ C ]
a person who thinks and acts in an independent way, often behaving differently
from the expected or usual way
a political maverick
He was considered as something of a maverick in the publishing world.
maw noun [ C ] LITERARY
1. the mouth of a fierce (= frightening) animal
the lion's maw
2. something that seems to surround and absorb everything near it
She fears that the matter will simply be swallowed up by the maw of bureaucracy.
mawkish adjective
showing emotion or love in an awkward or silly way
The film lapses into mawkish sentimentality near the end.
mawkishly adverb
mawkishness noun [ U ]
max adjective
maximum , often used after an amount
INFORMAL FOR
"How much will the trip cost?" "Forty pounds max."
max noun
to the max US INFORMAL
as much as possible
These athletes push their bodies to the max.
max verb
max sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
INFORMAL to use all that is available of something, especially money
We maxed out all our credit cards.
maxi- prefix
most, very large
maximum
maxim noun [ C ]
a short statement of a general truth, principle or rule for behaviour
maximal adjective SPECIALIZED
largest or greatest
Forty degrees centigrade is the maximal temperature at which this chemical
reaction will occur.
Compare minimal
maximize , UK USUALLY maximise verb [ T ]
to make something as great in amount, size or importance as possible
Some airlines have cancelled less popular routes in an effort to maximize profits .
Compare minimize
maximization , UK USUALLY maximisation noun [ U ]
maximum adjective
being the largest amount or number allowed or possible
maximum speed/effort/temperature
The bomb was designed to cause the maximum amount of damage.
maximum noun [ C usually singular ]
the largest amount allowed or possible
The temperature will reach a maximum of 27°C today.
Compare minimum
may modal verb POSSIBILITY
1. used to express possibility
There may be other problems that we don't know about.
I may see you tomorrow before I leave.
The cause of the accident may never be discovered.
The explosion may have been caused by a faulty electrical connection.
We'd better not interfere - she may not like it.
There may be some evidence to suggest she's guilty, but it's hardly conclusive.
Compare might
may modal verb PERMISSION
2. SLIGHTLY FORMAL used to ask or give permission
A reader may borrow up to six books at any one time.
"May I help myself to some more food?" "Yes, of course."
Hi, my name's Tiffany. How may I help you?
Compare might
may modal verb WISH
3. FORMAL used to introduce a wish or a hope
May you have a long and fruitful marriage.
be that as it may SLIGHTLY FORMAL
used to mean that you accept that a piece of information is true but it does not
change your opinion of the subject you are discussing
Building a new children's home will cost a lot of money but, be that as it may,
there is an urgent need for the facility.
may I ask
used in questions to show disapproval
What, may I ask, was the point of repeating the tests?
may well
If you say that something may well happen, you mean that it is likely to happen
She may well not want to travel alone.
may noun [ U ] ( ALSO may blossom )
the flowers of the hawthorn tree
May noun [ C or U ]
the fifth month of the year, after April and before June
30(th) May/May 30(th)
My mother's birthday is in May.
May noun [ C or U ]
the fifth month of the year, after April and before June
30(th) May/May 30(th)
My mother's birthday is in May.
maybe , adverb
1. used to show that something is possible or that something might be true
Maybe they'll come tomorrow.
Maybe you were right after all.
2. INFORMAL used to show that a number or amount is approximate
There were 200, maybe 300, refugees on the boat.
3. used to politely suggest or ask for something
Maybe Ted would like to go.
Maybe we should start again.
4. used to avoid giving a clear or certain answer to a question
"Are you coming to Kelly's party?" "Maybe."
5. used to mean that something is a possible explanation why something else
happened
"Why were you chosen for the team and not me?" "Maybe it's because I've been
to more practice sessions than you."
mayday noun [ S ] , exclamation
a special radio signal sent from a ship or an aircraft when it needs help
ˈ May ˌ Day noun [ C usually singular ]
the first day of May, which is a holiday in many countries. It traditionally
celebrates spring but now it is often used to honour workers.
mayfly noun [ C ]
an insect which lives near water and only lives for a very short time as an adult
mayhem noun [ U ]
a situation in which there is little or no order or control
With twenty kids running round and only two adults to supervise, it was complete
mayhem.
mayonnaise , noun [ U ] ( INFORMAL mayo )
a thick creamy sauce made from oil, vinegar and the yellow part of eggs, which is
usually eaten cold
mayor noun [ C ]
a person who is elected or chosen to be the leader of the group who governs a
town or city
mayoral adjective
mayoral duties
mayor noun [ C ]
a person who is elected or chosen to be the leader of the group who governs a
town or city
mayoral adjective
mayoral duties
mayoralty noun [ U ] US
the office of being a mayor, or the period of time for which someone is a mayor
mayoress noun [ C ]
a female mayor, or the wife of a mayor
maypole noun [ C ]
a tall pole with long ribbons (= narrow strips of cloth) fixed to the top of it, the
ends of which people hold as they dance around the pole on the first of May
may've short form of INFORMAL
may have
I may've told him already.
maze noun [ C ] PLACE
1. a complicated system of paths or passages which people try to find their way
through for entertainment
2. an area in which you can get easily lost because there are so many similar
streets or passages
The old part of the town was a maze of narrow passages.
maze noun [ C ] RULES/IDEAS
3. a complicated set of rules, ideas or subjects which you find difficult to deal with
or understand
It's almost impossible to get through the maze of bureaucracy.
MB noun [ C ] ( US BM ) ABBREVIATION FOR
Bachelor of Medicine: a degree in medicine, or a person who has this degree
MBA noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Master of Business Administration: an advanced degree in
business, or a person who has this
MBE noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Member of the Order of the British Empire: a British honour given
to a person by the Queen for a particular achievement
MBE noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Member of the Order of the British Empire: a British honour given
to a person by the Queen for a particular achievement
MC noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR master of ceremonies
McCarthyism noun [ U ]
the act of accusing someone of something that is considered unacceptable by
many people, especially when you have no proof
McCarthyism is named after the American politician Joseph McCarthy, who in the
1950s accused many Americans of being Communists.
She was a victim of McCarthyism.
McCarthyite noun [ C ] , adjective ( ALSO McCarthyist )
He led a McCarthyite witch-hunt against homosexuals.
McCoy
See the real McCoy
MCP noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR male chauvinist (pig)
MD noun [ C ] DOCTOR
1. US ABBREVIATION FOR Doctor of Medicine: a degree which someone must have to
work as a doctor
Steven Tay, MD
MD noun [ C ] MANAGER
2. UK ABBREVIATION FOR managing director
You should talk to the MD about your proposal.
MD noun [ C ] RECORDING
3. ABBREVIATION FOR MiniDisc
MDF noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR medium-density fibreboard: a type of board made from very
small pieces of wood that have been pressed and stuck together, used for making
furniture
me , pronoun
used, usually after a verb or preposition, to refer to the person speaking or
writing
Is there one for me?
She gave me some money.
Could you pass me that book?
It wasn't me who offered to go, it was Charlotte.
See also I
me ( ALSO mi ) noun [ S or U ]
the third note in the sol-fa musical scale
ME noun [ U ]
UK ABBREVIATION FOR myalgic encephalomyelitis: an illness, sometimes lasting for
several years, in which a person's muscles and joints (= places where two bones are
connected) hurt and they are generally very tired
See also chronic fatigue syndrome
mea culpa exclamation HUMOROUS
used to admit that something was your fault
mead noun [ U ]
an alcoholic drink made from honey which was drunk in the past
meadow noun [ C or U ]
a field with grass and often wild flowers in it
There was a path through the meadow to the village.
meagre UK AND AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH , US meager adjective
(of amounts or numbers) very small or not enough
a meagre salary
The prisoners existed on a meagre diet .
meal noun FOOD
1. [ C ] an occasion when food is eaten, or the food which is eaten on such an
occasion
a hot meal
a three-course meal
a heavy (= large) meal
a light (= small) meal
I have my main meal at midday.
You must come round for a meal sometime.
meal noun POWDER
2. [ U ] a substance which has been crushed to make a rough powder, especially
plant seeds crushed to make flour or for animal food
bone meal
soya meal
make a meal (out) of sth UK DISAPPROVING
to spend more time or energy doing something than is necessary
I only asked for a summary of the main points but she's making a real meal out of
it.
ˌ meals on ˈ wheels noun [ U ]
a service which takes hot meals to the homes of old and ill people, either for free
or for a small payment
ˈ meal ˌ ticket noun FOOD
1. [ C ] US FOR luncheon voucher
ˈ meal ˌ ticket noun MONEY
2. [ C usually singular ] someone or something that you use as a way of getting
regular amounts of money
Gone are the days when a university degree was a meal ticket for life.
ME noun [ U ]
UK ABBREVIATION FOR myalgic encephalomyelitis: an illness, sometimes lasting for
several years, in which a person's muscles and joints (= places where two bones are
connected) hurt and they are generally very tired
See also chronic fatigue syndrome
mea culpa exclamation HUMOROUS
used to admit that something was your fault
mead noun [ U ]
an alcoholic drink made from honey which was drunk in the past
meadow noun [ C or U ]
a field with grass and often wild flowers in it
There was a path through the meadow to the village.
meagre UK AND AUSTRALIAN ENGLISH , US meager adjective
(of amounts or numbers) very small or not enough
a meagre salary
The prisoners existed on a meagre diet .
meal noun FOOD
1. [ C ] an occasion when food is eaten, or the food which is eaten on such an
occasion
a hot meal
a three-course meal
a heavy (= large) meal
a light (= small) meal
I have my main meal at midday.
You must come round for a meal sometime.
meal noun POWDER
2. [ U ] a substance which has been crushed to make a rough powder, especially
plant seeds crushed to make flour or for animal food
bone meal
soya meal
make a meal (out) of sth UK DISAPPROVING
to spend more time or energy doing something than is necessary
I only asked for a summary of the main points but she's making a real meal out of
it.
ˌ meals on ˈ wheels noun [ U ]
a service which takes hot meals to the homes of old and ill people, either for free
or for a small payment
ˈ meal ˌ ticket noun FOOD
1. [ C ] US FOR luncheon voucher
ˈ meal ˌ ticket noun MONEY
2. [ C usually singular ] someone or something that you use as a way of getting
regular amounts of money
Gone are the days when a university degree was a meal ticket for life.
mealtime noun [ C usually plural ]
a time at which a meal is eaten
The only time our family gets together is at mealtimes.
mealy adjective
dry and powdery
mealy potatoes
a mealy apple
mealy-mouthed adjective DISAPPROVING
not brave enough to say what you mean directly and honestly
mealy-mouthed excuses
a mealy-mouthed spokesperson
mean verb EXPRESS
1. [ T ] to express or represent something such as an idea, thought, or fact
What does this word mean?
[ + that ] These figures mean that almost 7% of the working population is
unemployed.
What do you mean by that remark?
She's quite odd though. Do you know what I mean?
2. [ T ] used to add emphasis to what you are saying
I want you home by midnight. And I mean midnight.
Give it back now! I mean it .
mean verb HAVE RESULT
3. [ T ] to have a particular result
Lower costs mean lower prices.
[ + that ] Advances in electronics mean that the technology is already available.
[ + -ing verb ] If we want to catch the 7.30 train, that will mean leav ing the
house at 6.00.
mean verb INTEND
4. [ I or T ] to intend
I'm sorry if I offended you - I didn't mean any harm .
The books with large print are meant for our partially sighted readers.
[ + to infinitive ] I've been meaning to phone you all week.
Do you think she meant to say 9 a.m. instead of 9 p.m.?
[ + object + to infinitive ] This exercise isn't meant to be difficult.
They didn't mean for her to read the letter.
mean verb HAVE IMPORTANCE
5. [ T ] to have an important emotional effect on someone
It wasn't a valuable picture but it meant a lot to me.
Possessions mean nothing to him.
be meant for each other
If you say two people are meant for each other, you think they suit each other as
romantic partners.
I mean
1. used to correct what you have just said or to add more information
I really do love him - as a friend, I mean.
2. something that people often say before they start or continue their sentence
I mean, I think he's a good teacher, but I just don't like him.
mean business INFORMAL
to want very much to achieve something, even if other people disagree with you
mean well
to do what you think will be helpful, although by doing it you might cause
problems without intending to
I know he means well, but he just gets in the way.
See also well-meaning
What do you mean?
used to show that you are annoyed or that you disagree
What do you mean, it was my fault?
mean adjective NOT GENEROUS
1. MAINLY UK not willing to give or share things, especially money
He's too mean to buy her a ring.
My landlord's very mean with the heating - it's only on for two hours each day.
mean adjective NOT KIND
2. unkind or unpleasant
Stop being so mean to me!
She just said it to be mean.
mean adjective VIOLENT
3. MAINLY US frightening and likely to become violent
a mean and angry mob
a mean-looking youth
mean adjective GOOD
4. [ before noun ] INFORMAL very good
She's a mean piano player.
She plays a mean piano (= She plays very well) .
mean adjective MATHEMATICS
5. [ before noun ] SPECIALIZED (in mathematics) a mean number is an average
number
a mean value
Their mean weight was 76.4 kilos.
no mean
used to say a person is very good at a certain activity
He's no mean cook.
no mean achievement/feat
a great achievement
Getting the job finished on time was no mean achievement.
mean noun [ S ] MATHEMATICS
1. ( ALSO the arithmetic mean ) SPECIALIZED (in mathematics) the result you get by
adding two or more amounts together and dividing the total by the number of amounts;
the average
The mean of 5, 4, 10 and 15 is 8.5.
mean noun [ S ] METHOD
2. FORMAL a quality or way of doing something which is in the middle of two
completely different qualities or ways of doing something
We need to find a mean between exam questions which are too difficult and
those which are too easy.
mean verb EXPRESS
1. [ T ] to express or represent something such as an idea, thought, or fact
What does this word mean?
[ + that ] These figures mean that almost 7% of the working population is
unemployed.
What do you mean by that remark?
She's quite odd though. Do you know what I mean?
2. [ T ] used to add emphasis to what you are saying
I want you home by midnight. And I mean midnight.
Give it back now! I mean it .
mean verb HAVE RESULT
3. [ T ] to have a particular result
Lower costs mean lower prices.
[ + that ] Advances in electronics mean that the technology is already available.
[ + -ing verb ] If we want to catch the 7.30 train, that will mean leav ing the
house at 6.00.
mean verb INTEND
4. [ I or T ] to intend
I'm sorry if I offended you - I didn't mean any harm .
The books with large print are meant for our partially sighted readers.
[ + to infinitive ] I've been meaning to phone you all week.
Do you think she meant to say 9 a.m. instead of 9 p.m.?
[ + object + to infinitive ] This exercise isn't meant to be difficult.
They didn't mean for her to read the letter.
mean verb HAVE IMPORTANCE
5. [ T ] to have an important emotional effect on someone
It wasn't a valuable picture but it meant a lot to me.
Possessions mean nothing to him.
be meant for each other
If you say two people are meant for each other, you think they suit each other as
romantic partners.
I mean
1. used to correct what you have just said or to add more information
I really do love him - as a friend, I mean.
2. something that people often say before they start or continue their sentence
I mean, I think he's a good teacher, but I just don't like him.
mean business INFORMAL
to want very much to achieve something, even if other people disagree with you
mean well
to do what you think will be helpful, although by doing it you might cause
problems without intending to
I know he means well, but he just gets in the way.
See also well-meaning
What do you mean?
used to show that you are annoyed or that you disagree
What do you mean, it was my fault?
mean adjective NOT GENEROUS
1. MAINLY UK not willing to give or share things, especially money
He's too mean to buy her a ring.
My landlord's very mean with the heating - it's only on for two hours each day.
mean adjective NOT KIND
2. unkind or unpleasant
Stop being so mean to me!
She just said it to be mean.
mean adjective VIOLENT
3. MAINLY US frightening and likely to become violent
a mean and angry mob
a mean-looking youth
mean adjective GOOD
4. [ before noun ] INFORMAL very good
She's a mean piano player.
She plays a mean piano (= She plays very well) .
mean adjective MATHEMATICS
5. [ before noun ] SPECIALIZED (in mathematics) a mean number is an average
number
a mean value
Their mean weight was 76.4 kilos.
no mean
used to say a person is very good at a certain activity
He's no mean cook.
no mean achievement/feat
a great achievement
Getting the job finished on time was no mean achievement.
mean noun [ S ] MATHEMATICS
1. ( ALSO the arithmetic mean ) SPECIALIZED (in mathematics) the result you get by
adding two or more amounts together and dividing the total by the number of amounts;
the average
The mean of 5, 4, 10 and 15 is 8.5.
mean noun [ S ] METHOD
2. FORMAL a quality or way of doing something which is in the middle of two
completely different qualities or ways of doing something
We need to find a mean between exam questions which are too difficult and
those which are too easy.
meander verb RIVER/ROAD
1. [ I ] If a river, stream or road meanders, it follows a route which is not straight
or direct.
meander verb WALK
2. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to walk slowly without any clear direction
We spent the afternoon meandering around the streets of the old town.
meander verb NO PURPOSE
3. [ I ] If a text, process or activity meanders, it has no clear direction
The film meanders along with no particular story line.
meander noun [ C ] RIVER
1. a curve of a river or stream
meander noun [ C ] JOURNEY
2. a journey which has no particular direction
The TV series continues its haphazard meander around the globe - this week it
will be in Portugal.
meandering adjective
moving slowly in no particular direction or with no clear purpose
a meandering river
a long meandering speech
meanderings plural noun
talk which continues for a longer time than is necessary and which is often not
interesting
meanie , meany noun [ C ] CHILD'S WORD
someone who is unkind
Don't be such a meanie!
meaning noun OF WORD/WRITING/SIGN, ETC.
1. [ C or U ] The meaning of something is what it expresses or represents
The word 'flight' has two different meanings: a plane journey, and the act of
running away.
The meaning of his gesture was clear.
His novels often have (a) hidden meaning.
meaning noun IMPORTANCE
2. [ U ] importance or value
The birth of her first grandchild gave new meaning to her life.
Education had no great meaning for him until much later in his life.
meaningful adjective EXPRESSING STH
1. intended to show meaning, often secretly
a meaningful look
He raised one eyebrow in a meaningful way.
meaningful adjective IMPORTANT/SERIOUS
2. useful, serious or important
She seems to find it difficult to form meaningful relationships.
Having the opportunity to work would make retirement more meaningful for
many pensioners.
meaningfully adverb
meaningfulness noun [ U ]
a meaningful look
many pensioners.
meaningfully adverb
meaningless adjective NO MEANING
1. having no meaning
a meaningless phrase
meaningless adjective NOT IMPORTANT
2. having no importance or value
a meaningless gesture
meaninglessly adverb
meaninglessness noun [ U ]
meanly adverb
showing that you are not willing to give or share things, especially money
meanness noun [ U ]
the quality of being unwilling to give or share things, especially money
means plural noun METHOD
1. a method or way of doing something
They had no means of communication.
We need to find some other means of transportation.
We must use every means at our disposal.
She tried to explain by means of sign language.
There is no means of tracing the debt at all.
The family had no means of support (= way of getting money) .
means plural noun MONEY
2. money, for example from an income, that allows you to buy things
[ + to infinitive ] He has the means to buy half the houses in the street if he
wanted to.
3. live beyond your means
to spend more money than you receive as income
4. live within your means
to spend less money than you receive as income
5. a man/woman of means
a rich man/woman
by all means
used to give permission
"May I borrow this book?" "By all means."
by no means ( ALSO not by any means )
not at all
It is by no means certain that we'll finish the project by June.
This isn't the last we'll hear of it by any means.
a means to an end
something that you do because it will help you to achieve something else
I didn't particularly like the job - it was just a means to an end.
means-testing noun [ U ] UK
the official process of measuring how much income a person has in order to
decide whether they should receive money from the government
means test noun [ C ]
means-test verb [ T ]
People who apply for housing benefit must be means-tested.
means-tested adjective
means-tested benefits
a meaningful look
many pensioners.
meaningfully adverb
meaningless adjective NO MEANING
1. having no meaning
a meaningless phrase
meaningless adjective NOT IMPORTANT
2. having no importance or value
a meaningless gesture
meaninglessly adverb
meaninglessness noun [ U ]
meanly adverb
showing that you are not willing to give or share things, especially money
meanness noun [ U ]
the quality of being unwilling to give or share things, especially money
means plural noun METHOD
1. a method or way of doing something
They had no means of communication.
We need to find some other means of transportation.
We must use every means at our disposal.
She tried to explain by means of sign language.
There is no means of tracing the debt at all.
The family had no means of support (= way of getting money) .
means plural noun MONEY
2. money, for example from an income, that allows you to buy things
[ + to infinitive ] He has the means to buy half the houses in the street if he
wanted to.
3. live beyond your means
to spend more money than you receive as income
4. live within your means
to spend less money than you receive as income
5. a man/woman of means
a rich man/woman
by all means
used to give permission
"May I borrow this book?" "By all means."
by no means ( ALSO not by any means )
not at all
It is by no means certain that we'll finish the project by June.
This isn't the last we'll hear of it by any means.
a means to an end
something that you do because it will help you to achieve something else
I didn't particularly like the job - it was just a means to an end.
means-testing noun [ U ] UK
the official process of measuring how much income a person has in order to
decide whether they should receive money from the government
means test noun [ C ]
means-test verb [ T ]
People who apply for housing benefit must be means-tested.
means-tested adjective
means-tested benefits
meantime noun
in the meantime
until something expected happens, or while something else is happening
Your computer won't be arriving till Thursday. In the meantime, you can use
Jude's.
meanwhile adverb
until something expected happens, or while something else is happening
Carl's starting college in September. Meanwhile, he's travelling around Europe.
meany noun [ C ]
a meanie
meany noun [ C ]
a meanie
measles noun [ U ]
an infectious disease which produces small red spots all over the body
measly adjective INFORMAL
too small in size or amount, or not enough
a measly amount of money
a measly little present
measliness noun [ U ]
measurable adjective
able to be measured, or large enough to be noticed
The service produces clear, measurable benefits to people's health.
measurably adverb
measure verb SIZE
1. [ L only + noun T ] to discover the exact size or amount of something, or to be
of a particular size
"Will the table fit in here?" "I don't know - let's measure it."
This machine measures your heart rate.
He measured the flour into the bowl.
The area, measuring/which measures 5 kilometres by 3 kilometres, has been
purchased by the army.
measure verb JUDGE
2. [ T ] to judge the quality, effect, importance, or value of something
There is no way of measuring the damage done to morale.
measure sb/sth against sb/sth phrasal verb
to judge someone or something by comparing them against someone or
something else
She measured the shoe against the footprint, but it was smaller.
measure sth out phrasal verb [ M ]
to weigh or measure a small amount of something from a larger amount of
something
Measure out 250 grams of flour and sift it into a large mixing bowl.
measure up phrasal verb
to be good enough, or as good as someone or something else
She could never measure up to her mother's expectations.
measure sth/sb up phrasal verb [ M ]
to discover what size something or someone is by measuring them
measure noun METHOD
1. [ C usually plural ] a way of achieving something, or a method for dealing with
a situation
What further measures can we take to avoid terrorism?
These measures were designed to improve car safety.
[ + to infinitive ] Emergency measures to help the refugees are badly needed.
measure noun SIZE
2. [ C or U ] a unit used for stating the size, weight, etc. of something, or a way
of measuring
weights and measures
The sample's density is a measure of its purity.
3. [ C or U ] FORMAL amount
There was a large measure of agreement between the candidates.
His success was in some measure due to his being in the right place at the right
time.
4. [ C ] an exact amount, especially of alcohol
One unit of alcohol is equal to half a pint of beer or a standard measure of spirits.
5. [ C ] US FOR bar (MUSIC)
measure noun WAY OF JUDGING
6. [ C ] a way of judging something
Record sales are not always a measure of a singer's popularity.
We have no accurate measure of the damage.
have the measure of sb/sth SLIGHTLY FORMAL
to understand what someone or something is like and to know how to deal with
them
I don't think she's under any illusions about her husband - she's got the measure
of him.
measured adjective
careful and controlled, or not fast
Her response to their criticism was calm and measured.
measured adjective
careful and controlled, or not fast
Her response to their criticism was calm and measured.
measurement noun
1. [ C or U ] the act or process of measuring
The test is based on the measurement of blood levels.
The machine makes thousands of measurements every day.
2. [ C ] the size, shape, quality, etc. of something, which you discover by
measuring it
The measurements of both rooms were identical.
What is your inside leg measurement?
3. measurements
[ plural ] Your measurements are the sizes of various parts of your body,
especially your chest, waist and hips, which you refer to when you want to buy clothes.
ˈ measuring ˌ cylinder noun [ C ] UK ( US graduated cylinder )
a glass cylinder which has lines printed on the side of it showing how much it
contains, used by scientists
Pour exactly 100 ml of sulphuric acid into a measuring cylinder.
ˈ measuring ˌ jug noun [ C ] UK ( US measuring cup )
a container used for measuring liquids which has lines printed on the side of it
showing how much it contains
meat noun FOOD
1. [ U ] the flesh of an animal when it is used for food
I don't eat meat.
raw meat
red/white meat
2. [ C ] a type of meat
a buffet of cold meats and cheeses
meat noun INTEREST
3. [ U ] important, valuable or interesting ideas or information
It was a nicely written article and quite amusing but there wasn't much meat to it.
be meat and drink to sb
If a difficult or unpleasant activity is meat and drink to someone, they enjoy doing
it very much and find it easy.
meat and two veg UK
a traditional British meal of cooked, hot meat with two types of vegetables
One man's meat is another man's poison. SAYING
said to emphasize that people like different things
meat-and-potatoes adjective [ before noun ] US
more basic or important than other things
For many unions, the meat-and-potatoes issue is no longer pay increases but job
security.
meat-and-potatoes adjective [ before noun ] US
more basic or important than other things
For many unions, the meat-and-potatoes issue is no longer pay increases but job
security.
meatball noun [ C ]
meatball
one of several small balls of meat that are eaten hot with a sauce
spaghetti and meatballs
ˌ meat ˈ loaf noun [ C or U ]
meat cut into extremely small pieces, mixed with other things, cooked in a
container and then cut into slices to be eaten
meaty adjective FOOD
1. full of meat or tasting a lot of meat
a good meaty stew
2. large and having a lot of flesh
meaty tomatoes
meaty adjective INTERESTING
3. having a lot of important or interesting ideas
a meaty book/letter/report
She has written some wonderfully meaty parts for older actresses.
meatiness noun [ U ]
Mecca noun [ U ]
the holy city of Islam, which is in Saudi Arabia
mecca noun [ C usually singular ]
a place to which many people are attracted
His Indiana bookstore became a mecca for writers and artists.
The scheme would transform the park into a tourist mecca.
mechanic noun JOB
1. [ C ] someone whose job is repairing the engines of vehicles and other
machines
a car/garage/motor mechanic
mechanic noun STUDY
2. mechanics
[ U ] the study of the effect of physical forces on objects and their movement
mechanic noun WAY OF WORKING
3. the me ˈ chanics
[ plural ] INFORMAL the way something works or happens
He knows a lot about the mechanics of running a school.
mechanical adjective MACHINES
1. describes machines or their parts
a mechanical device
The company produces mechanical parts for airplane engines.
The plane appeared to have crashed because of a mechanical problem .
mechanical adjective WITHOUT THOUGHT
2. ( ALSO mechanistic ) DISAPPROVING without thinking about what you are doing,
especially because you do something often
I was taught to read in a mechanical way.
a mechanical device
me ˌ chanical engin ˈ eering noun [ U ]
the study of the design and production of machines
mechanically adverb MACHINES
1. using or relating to machines
Most crops are harvested mechanically.
I'm not very mechanically minded (= do not understand how machines work) .
mechanically adverb WITHOUT THOUGHT
2. ( ALSO mechanistically ) without thinking about what you are doing, especially
because you do something often
"Thank you, " replied the ticket collector mechanically as he took each ticket.
mechanism noun [ C ] MACHINE PART
1. a part of a machine, or a set of parts that work together
These automatic cameras have a special focusing mechanism.
mechanism noun [ C ] SYSTEM
2. a way of doing something which is planned or part of a system
The mechanism for collecting taxes needs revising.
mechanism noun [ C ] BEHAVIOUR
3. a part of your behaviour which helps you to deal with a difficult situation
She's actually rather insecure, and her rudeness is just a defence mechanism.
mechanistic adjective
thinking of living things as if they were machines
According to mechanistic views of behaviour, human action can be explained in
terms of cause and effect.
mechanize , UK USUALLY mechanise verb [ T ]
to use a machine to do something that used to be done by hand
Farming has been mechanized, reducing the need for labour.
mechanization , UK USUALLY mechanisation noun [ U ]
mechanized , UK USUALLY mechanised adjective
the Med noun [ S ] UK INFORMAL
the Mediterranean sea or the countries near it
They're going on a cruise round the Med.
a mechanical device
me ˌ chanical engin ˈ eering noun [ U ]
the study of the design and production of machines
mechanically adverb MACHINES
1. using or relating to machines
Most crops are harvested mechanically.
I'm not very mechanically minded (= do not understand how machines work) .
mechanically adverb WITHOUT THOUGHT
2. ( ALSO mechanistically ) without thinking about what you are doing, especially
because you do something often
"Thank you, " replied the ticket collector mechanically as he took each ticket.
mechanism noun [ C ] MACHINE PART
1. a part of a machine, or a set of parts that work together
These automatic cameras have a special focusing mechanism.
mechanism noun [ C ] SYSTEM
2. a way of doing something which is planned or part of a system
The mechanism for collecting taxes needs revising.
mechanism noun [ C ] BEHAVIOUR
3. a part of your behaviour which helps you to deal with a difficult situation
She's actually rather insecure, and her rudeness is just a defence mechanism.
mechanistic adjective
thinking of living things as if they were machines
According to mechanistic views of behaviour, human action can be explained in
terms of cause and effect.
mechanize , UK USUALLY mechanise verb [ T ]
to use a machine to do something that used to be done by hand
Farming has been mechanized, reducing the need for labour.
mechanization , UK USUALLY mechanisation noun [ U ]
mechanized , UK USUALLY mechanised adjective
the Med noun [ S ] UK INFORMAL
the Mediterranean sea or the countries near it
They're going on a cruise round the Med.
med adjective MAINLY US INFORMAL
medical
med school
a med student
medal noun [ C ]
a small metal disc, with words or a picture on it, which is given as a reward for a
brave action, for winning in a competition, or to remember a special event
He was awarded a medal for bravery.
She won three Olympic gold medals.
medal verb [ I ]
to win a medal in a sports competition
She's medalled in both the heptathlon and the long jump.
medallion noun [ C ] METAL DISC
1. a metal disc which is worn for decoration on a chain or string around the neck
medallion noun [ C ] MEAT
2. a flat circular piece of meat without bones
medallions of pork
me ˈ dallion ˌ man noun [ C usually singular ] UK HUMOROUS DISAPPROVING
a man who tries to look younger than he is by wearing jewellery and tight clothes,
and who often has his shirt open at the front to show his chest
medallist UK , US medalist noun [ C ]
a person who has won a medal in sport
She's a bronze medallist in judo.
meddle verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING
to try to change or have an influence on things which are not your responsibility,
especially by criticizing in a damaging or annoying way
My sister's always meddling in other people's affairs .
People shouldn't meddle with things they don't understand.
meddler noun [ C ]
meddling , noun [ U ]
meddle verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING
to try to change or have an influence on things which are not your responsibility,
especially by criticizing in a damaging or annoying way
My sister's always meddling in other people's affairs .
People shouldn't meddle with things they don't understand.
meddler noun [ C ]
meddling , noun [ U ]
meddlesome adjective DISAPPROVING
often getting involved in situations where you are not wanted, especially by
criticizing in a damaging or annoying way
media noun NEWSPAPERS
1. the ˈ media
[ S + singular or plural verb ] newspapers, magazines, radio and television
considered as a group
the local/national media
media attention/coverage/hype/reports
The issue has been much discussed in the media.
See also multimedia
media noun MEDIUM
2. PLURAL OF medium
mediaeval adjective
medieval
ˈ media e ˌ vent noun [ C ]
an event or activity planned to attract the attention of the media
median adjective SPECIALIZED
describes the value which is the middle one in a set of values arranged in order of
size
Median household income fell last year.
median noun [ C ]
ˈ median ˌ strip noun [ C usually singular ]
US FOR central reservation
mediate verb [ I or T ]
to talk to two separate people or groups involved in a disagreement to try to help
them to agree or find a solution to their problems
Negotiators were called in to mediate between the two sides.
The two envoys have succeeded in mediating an end to the war.
mediation noun [ U ]
Last-minute attempts at mediation failed.
mediator noun [ C ]
medic noun [ C ]
1. UK INFORMAL a medical student or doctor
2. US someone who does medical work in the military
medic noun [ C ]
1. UK INFORMAL a medical student or doctor
2. US someone who does medical work in the military
Medicaid noun [ U ]
a government service in the US which allows poor people to receive medical
treatment both in and out of hospitals
Compare Medicare
medical adjective
related to the treatment of illness and injuries
medical advice
medical books
a medical team
medical workers
medically adverb
The doctor declared her medically fit (= she had no illness or injury) .
medical noun [ C ] MAINLY UK ( MAINLY US physical )
an examination of your body by a doctor to find out if you are healthy
The insurance company wanted me to have a medical.
Medicare noun [ U ]
1. a government service in the US which allows people aged 65 and over to
receive medical treatment both in and out of hospitals
Compare Medicaid
2. a government service in Australia which allows people to receive medical
treatment, and which is paid for through taxation
medicated adjective
containing a medical substance
medicated lotion/shampoo/tissues
medication noun [ C or U ]
a medicine, or a set of medicines or drugs used to improve a particular condition
or illness
He is currently on/taking medication for his heart.
In the study, patients were taken off their usual medications.
medicinal adjective
Medicinal substances are used to cure illnesses
I keep a bottle of brandy purely for medicinal purposes .
It is said that the spring water has medicinal properties.
medicinally adverb
medicinal adjective
Medicinal substances are used to cure illnesses
I keep a bottle of brandy purely for medicinal purposes .
It is said that the spring water has medicinal properties.
medicinally adverb
medicine noun TREATMENT
1. [ U ] treatment for illness or injury, or the study of this
paediatric/preventative medicine
orthodox/Western medicine
a career in medicine
She is a doctor, but is unable to practise medicine (= work as a doctor) in her
own country.
medicine noun SUBSTANCE
2. [ C or U ] a substance, especially in the form of a liquid or a pill, which is a
treatment for illness or injury
cough medicine
Take two spoonfuls of medicine at mealtimes.
She knows quite a lot about herbal medicines.
See picture health 1
give sb a dose/taste of their own medicine
to treat someone as badly as they have treated you
medico noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
a doctor
medieval , mediaeval adjective
related to the Middle Ages (= the period in European history from about 600 AD
to 1500 AD)
a medieval building/painting/town
a medieval manuscript
mediocre adjective DISAPPROVING
not very good
The film's plot is predictable and the acting is mediocre.
Parents don't want their children going to mediocre schools.
mediocrity noun [ C or U ]
the quality of being not very good; a person who is not very good at something
A goal just before half-time rescued the match from mediocrity.
These people are just mediocrities (= people who do not have much skill or ability
at anything) .
meditate verb [ I ]
1. to think calm thoughts in order to relax or as a religious activity
Sophie meditates for 20 minutes every day.
2. to think seriously about something for a long time
He meditated on the consequences of his decision.
meditate verb [ I ]
meditation noun
1. the act of giving your attention to only one thing, either as a religious activity
or as a way of becoming calm and relaxed
prayer and meditation
She practises meditation.
2. [ C or U ] serious thought or study, or the product of this activity
Let us spend a few moments in quiet meditation.
I left him deep in meditation.
The book is a meditation on the morality of art.
meditative adjective FORMAL
Mediterranean noun [ S ]
the Mediterranean
a. ( ALSO the Mediterranean Sea , INFORMAL the Med ) the sea surrounded by
southern Europe, northern Africa and the Middle East
b. the countries next to the Mediterranean Sea;
Mediterranean adjective
a Mediterranean climate
The Mediterranean diet is famously healthy including as it does, olive oil and fresh
fruit and vegetables.
medium adjective MIDDLE
1. being in the middle between an upper and lower amount, size, degree or value
a girl of medium height
a medium-sized book
medium adjective MEAT
2. (of meat) cooked so that it is no longer red in the middle
Would you like your steak rare, medium, or well-done?
medium noun [ C ] METHOD
1. a method or way of expressing something
the broadcasting/print medium
They told the story through the medium of dance.
medium noun [ C ] PERSON
2. a person who says that they can receive messages from people who are dead
medium noun [ C ] SUBSTANCE
3. a substance that something grows in, lives in, or moves through
ˈ medium ˌ wave noun [ U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION MW )
refers to radio waves which have a length of between about 150 and 550 metres
meditate verb [ I ]
meditation noun
1. the act of giving your attention to only one thing, either as a religious activity
or as a way of becoming calm and relaxed
prayer and meditation
She practises meditation.
2. [ C or U ] serious thought or study, or the product of this activity
Let us spend a few moments in quiet meditation.
I left him deep in meditation.
The book is a meditation on the morality of art.
meditative adjective FORMAL
Mediterranean noun [ S ]
the Mediterranean
a. ( ALSO the Mediterranean Sea , INFORMAL the Med ) the sea surrounded by
southern Europe, northern Africa and the Middle East
b. the countries next to the Mediterranean Sea;
Mediterranean adjective
a Mediterranean climate
The Mediterranean diet is famously healthy including as it does, olive oil and fresh
fruit and vegetables.
medium adjective MIDDLE
1. being in the middle between an upper and lower amount, size, degree or value
a girl of medium height
a medium-sized book
medium adjective MEAT
2. (of meat) cooked so that it is no longer red in the middle
Would you like your steak rare, medium, or well-done?
medium noun [ C ] METHOD
1. a method or way of expressing something
the broadcasting/print medium
They told the story through the medium of dance.
medium noun [ C ] PERSON
2. a person who says that they can receive messages from people who are dead
medium noun [ C ] SUBSTANCE
3. a substance that something grows in, lives in, or moves through
ˈ medium ˌ wave noun [ U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION MW )
refers to radio waves which have a length of between about 150 and 550 metres
medley noun [ C ] MIXTURE
1. a mixture of different things, especially tunes put together to form a longer
piece of music
a medley of popular tunes
The menu described the dessert as 'a medley of exotic fruits'.
medley noun [ C ] SWIMMING COMPETITION
2. a swimming competition in which each of four swimmers in a team uses a
different method of swimming
medulla oblongata noun [ C usually sing ] SPECIALIZED
the lowest part of the brain, situated at the top of the spinal cord and controlling
activities such as heartbeat, blood pressure and breathing
meek adjective
quiet, gentle and not willing to argue or state your opinions in a forceful way
She seemed so very meek and mild.
meekly adverb
meekness noun [ U ]
meet verb BECOME FAMILIAR WITH
1. [ I or T ] to see and speak to someone for the first time
They met at work.
I met her in Hawaii.
Would you like to meet my sister?
Come and meet (= be introduced to) my friend Laura.
meet verb COME TOGETHER
2. [ I or T ] to come together with someone intentionally
Lorraine and I meet for lunch once a month.
We agreed to meet on Tuesday to discuss the project.
The children's club meets every Thursday afternoon.
They're meeting with their advisers to work out a new plan.
3. [ I or T ] to come together with someone without intending to
It's always awkward when you meet someone you know, but you can't remember
their name.
Guess who I met in town today.
We met our old neighbours at an auction last Saturday.
meet verb SATISFY
4. [ T ] to fulfil , satisfy, or achieve
The workers' demands for higher pay were not met by the management.
We haven't yet been able to find a house that meets our needs/requirements .
They will only agree to sign the contract if certain conditions are met.
Do you think we will be able to meet our deadline/target ?
5. [ T ] to pay
The company has agreed to meet all our expenses.
meet verb PLACE
6. [ T ] to wait at a place for someone or something to arrive
Will you meet me at the airport (= be there when the aircraft arrives) ?
meet verb TOUCH
7. [ I or T ] to touch or join something
There's a large crack where the ceiling meets the wall.
The curtains don't quite meet.
Turn left where the lane meets the main road.
meet verb EXPERIENCE
8. [ T ] to experience something
I've never met that kind of problem/system before.
He met his death (= he died) in the icy waters of the South Atlantic.
be more to this than meets the eye
If there is more to something than meets the eye, it is more difficult to
understand or involves more things than you thought at the beginning.
eyes meet
If people's eyes meet, they look at each other at the same time
Their eyes met across a crowded room.
meet sb's eye
to look at someone directly while they are looking at you
I tried to avoid meeting his eye.
meet sb halfway
to do some of the things that someone wants you to do, in order to show that you
want to reach an agreement or improve your relationship with them
meet your maker HUMOROUS
to die
meet your match
to compete unsuccessfully with someone
He was a good player, but he met his match in Peter.
meet your Waterloo
to be defeated by someone who is too strong for you or by a problem which is too
difficult for you
meet up phrasal verb PEOPLE
1. to meet another person in order to do something together
They suggested we meet up at Mustafa's.
meet up phrasal verb ROADS
2. If roads or paths meet up, they join at a particular place.
meet with sth phrasal verb EXPERIENCE
1. FORMAL to experience something, usually something unpleasant
I heard she'd met with an accident .
If you meet with any difficulties, just let me know.
meet with sth phrasal verb REACTION
2. to cause a particular reaction or result
At the time the decision was met with a barrage of criticism.
I trust the arrangements meet with your approval .
meet noun [ C ]
1. US a sports event
a track/swim meet
the first meet of the season
2. UK an occasion when people go foxhunting
They met at work.
their name.
meet verb SATISFY
5. [ T ] to pay
meet verb PLACE
meet verb TOUCH
eyes meet
meet sb's eye
meet sb halfway
to die
meet your match
meet your Waterloo
difficult for you
meet noun [ C ]
a track/swim meet
meet-and-greet adjective
A meet-and-greet event is one that has been arranged so that a famous person
can meet and talk to people
The President took a short meet-and-greet walk to the restaurant.
meet and greet noun [ C ]
a meet-and-greet event
meeting noun [ C ]
1. an occasion when people come together intentionally or not intentionally
We're having a meeting on Thursday to discuss the problem.
I'm afraid she's in a meeting - I'll ask her to call you back later.
A chance (= not intended) meeting with a publisher on an airplane had launched
his career.
I liked him from our first meeting.
2. a group of people who have met for a particular purpose
The meeting wants to look at the proposal again.
3. UK a sports competition
a meeting of minds
a situation when two or more people have the same opinions about something
ˈ meeting ˌ house noun [ C usually singular ]
a building used by Quakers (= a Christian group) as their place of worship
The Friends' (= Quakers') Meeting House
ˈ meeting ˌ point noun [ C ]
an area in a large public place, such as an airport or station, where people can
arrange to meet
meg noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR megabyte: used when talking about how much information a
computer can store
mega adjective SLANG
very good or very big
She's got a mega voice.
They met at work.
their name.
meet verb SATISFY
5. [ T ] to pay
meet verb PLACE
meet verb TOUCH
eyes meet
meet sb's eye
meet sb halfway
to die
meet your match
meet your Waterloo
difficult for you
meet noun [ C ]
a track/swim meet
meet-and-greet adjective
A meet-and-greet event is one that has been arranged so that a famous person
can meet and talk to people
The President took a short meet-and-greet walk to the restaurant.
meet and greet noun [ C ]
a meet-and-greet event
meeting noun [ C ]
1. an occasion when people come together intentionally or not intentionally
We're having a meeting on Thursday to discuss the problem.
I'm afraid she's in a meeting - I'll ask her to call you back later.
A chance (= not intended) meeting with a publisher on an airplane had launched
his career.
I liked him from our first meeting.
2. a group of people who have met for a particular purpose
The meeting wants to look at the proposal again.
3. UK a sports competition
a meeting of minds
a situation when two or more people have the same opinions about something
ˈ meeting ˌ house noun [ C usually singular ]
a building used by Quakers (= a Christian group) as their place of worship
The Friends' (= Quakers') Meeting House
ˈ meeting ˌ point noun [ C ]
an area in a large public place, such as an airport or station, where people can
arrange to meet
meg noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR megabyte: used when talking about how much information a
computer can store
mega adjective SLANG
very good or very big
She's got a mega voice.
mega- prefix NUMBER
1. 1 000 000 times the stated unit
a megawatt
a megabyte
mega- prefix BIG/GOOD
2. INFORMAL large in amount or size
He's mega-rich.
They're earning megabucks (= a lot of money) .
megabyte noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION MB ) SPECIALIZED
a unit used in measuring the amount of information a computer can store, which
has the value 1 048 576 bytes
megahertz noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION MHz )
a million hertz
megalith noun [ C ]
a large stone, sometimes forming part of a group or circle, which is thought to
have been important to people in the distant past (= a long time ago) for social or
religious reasons
megalithic adjective
megalithic monuments
megalithic times (= the period when megaliths were important)
megalomania noun [ U ]
an unnaturally strong wish for power and control, or the belief that you are very
much more important and powerful than you really are
megalomaniac noun [ C ]
a person with megalomania
megalomaniac adjective [ before noun ] ( ALSO megalomaniacal )
megaphone noun [ C ]
megaphone
a cone-shaped device which makes your voice louder when you speak into it, so
that people can hear you although they are not near to you
megapixel noun [ C ]
one million pixels (= small points that form part of the image on a computer
screen) , used to describe the amount of detail in images made by a digital camera,
computer screen, etc.
megaplex noun [ C ]
a very large cinema where a lot of films are shown at the same time
a 12-screen megaplex
megastar noun [ C ]
a very famous person, especially an actor or pop star
megastore noun [ C ]
a very large shop
a furniture megastore
megaton noun [ C ]
a unit which has the same value as the force produced by 1 000 000 tons of TNT
(= an explosive) and which is used for measuring the power of explosions, especially
nuclear explosions
megawatt noun [ C ]
a unit for measuring electric power, which has the value of 1 000 000 watts
meiosis noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the type of cell division that happens in the reproductive organs, in which one cell
divides into four gametes (= reproductive cells) , each with a different mixture of
chromosomes and half the number contained in the original cell
Compare mitosis
meiosis noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the type of cell division that happens in the reproductive organs, in which one cell
divides into four gametes (= reproductive cells) , each with a different mixture of
chromosomes and half the number contained in the original cell
Compare mitosis
-meister suffix INFORMAL
used in a description showing what someone is famous for doing or what someone
does very well
funk-meister
the horror-meister, Stephen King
melancholia noun [ U ] OLD USE
the condition of feeling unhappy or sad for no obvious reason
melancholic adjective FORMAL
expressing feelings of sadness
a melancholic expression
melancholic songs
melancholy adjective
sad
melancholy autumn days
a melancholy piece of music
melancholy noun [ U ] FORMAL
sadness which lasts for a long period of time, often without any obvious reason
Melanesia noun [ U ]
Melanesian noun [ C ] , adjective
mélange noun [ C usually singular ] FORMAL
a mixture, or a group of different things or people
Her book presents an interesting mélange of ideas.
The dessert was described as 'a mélange of summer fruits in a light syrup'.
melanin noun [ U ]
a dark brown pigment (= substance which gives colour) which is found in eyes,
skin, hair, feathers, etc., and which helps to protect the skin against harmful light from
the sun
melanoma noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a type of skin cancer that appears as a coloured mark or growth on the skin
melanoma noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a type of skin cancer that appears as a coloured mark or growth on the skin
melatonin noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a hormone in the body which produces changes in skin colour and is involved in
continuing biorhythms such as our daily sleep pattern
melee noun [ C usually singular ] LITERARY
a large noisy uncontrolled crowd, in which people are moving in different
directions and sometimes fighting with each other
We lost sight of each other in the melee.
mellifluous adjective FORMAL
having a pleasant and flowing sound
a deep mellifluous voice
the mellifluous sound of the cello
mellow adjective SMOOTH
1. smooth, soft or developed; not too sharp, bright, new or rough
mellow flavours
mellow sounds
mellow autumn sunlight
mellow adjective RELAXED
2. relaxed and pleasant or not severe
a mellow mood/atmosphere
After a few drinks, he became very mellow.
mellow verb BECOME SOFTER
1. [ I ] to become softer and more developed in a pleasing way
The brickwork will mellow over the years so that it blends with the surroundings.
mellow verb BECOME RELAXED
2. [ I or T ] to become more relaxed
She used to be very impatient, but she's mellowed over time.
The years have mellowed her.
US INFORMAL Oh don't be so tough on yourself, Bill - mellow out (= become more
relaxed and less severe) .
melodic adjective
1. very pleasant to listen to
2. relating to the melody in a piece of music
melodic adjective
1. very pleasant to listen to
2. relating to the melody in a piece of music
melodious adjective FORMAL
very pleasant to listen to
melodrama noun [ C or U ]
a story, play, or film in which the characters show stronger emotions than real
people usually do
a television melodrama
MAINLY UK The car's hardly damaged - there's no need to make a melodrama out
of it (= make the situation more important than it is) .
melodramatic adjective
showing much stronger emotions than are necessary or usual for a situation
a melodramatic speech
melodramatically adverb
"Life is not worth living," she declared melodramatically.
melody noun [ C or U ]
a tune, often forming part of a larger piece of music
He played a few well-known melodies.
His songs are always strong on melody.
melon noun [ C or U ]
melon
a large round fruit with hard yellow or green skin, sweet juicy flesh and a lot of
seeds
melt verb BECOME LIQUID
1. [ I or T ] to turn from something solid into something soft or liquid, or to cause
something to do this
The snow usually melts by mid March.
Melt the chocolate slowly so that it doesn't burn.
The meat's beautifully cooked - it melts in your mouth (= is so pleasantly soft
that you do not need to chew it) .
melt verb FEEL LOVE
2. [ I ] to start to feel love or sympathy, especially after feeling angry
He only has to look at her, and she melts.
He'd been going to refuse but his heart melted when he saw the children's faces.
melt away phrasal verb
1. to disappear slowly
As the police sirens were heard, the crowd started to melt away.
2. If a strong feeling melts away, you feel it less strongly and it disappears
Her anger melted away when she read the letter.
melt sth down phrasal verb [ M ]
to heat a metal object until it turns to liquid, because you want to use the metal
rather than the object
They melted down the gold rings and bracelets.
melt (away) into sth phrasal verb
to look so similar to something else all around you, or to be so much a part of it,
that people do not see or notice you
The security men just melted into the background until they were needed.
melt noun [ C ] MAINLY US
a sandwich containing melted cheese
a tuna melt
meltdown noun NUCLEAR
1. [ C or U ] an extremely dangerous situation in a nuclear power station in which
the nuclear fuel becomes very hot and melts through its container and escapes into the
environment
meltdown noun FAILURE
2. [ U ] INFORMAL a complete failure, especially in financial matters
financial/economic/market meltdown
The last few months have seen the progressive meltdown of the country's political
system.
3. [ C or U ] INFORMAL when a person becomes extremely upset and is not able to
deal with life
meltdown noun NUCLEAR
1. [ C or U ] an extremely dangerous situation in a nuclear power station in which
the nuclear fuel becomes very hot and melts through its container and escapes into the
environment
meltdown noun FAILURE
2. [ U ] INFORMAL a complete failure, especially in financial matters
financial/economic/market meltdown
The last few months have seen the progressive meltdown of the country's political
system.
3. [ C or U ] INFORMAL when a person becomes extremely upset and is not able to
deal with life
melted adjective
having turned soft or into a liquid
melted butter/chocolate/cheese
melting adjective
describes a look or voice which makes you feel sympathy or love
ˈ melting ˌ point noun [ C usually singular ]
the temperature at which a substance melts
ˈ melting ˌ pot noun [ C usually singular ]
a place where many different people and ideas exist together, often mixing and
producing something new
a cultural melting pot
New Orleans is one of the great melting pots of America.
member noun [ C ] PERSON
1. a person, animal or thing which is part of a group
a family member
a member of the older generation
male and female members of the group
The lion is a member of the cat family.
Representatives of the member states will be meeting next week.
2. a person who joins a group to take part in a particular activity
a new club member
Car parking facilities are for members only.
Michael is a member of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
member noun [ C ] BODY PART
3. FORMAL a leg or arm
4. FORMAL a penis
the male member
ˌ Member of ˈ Parliament noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MP )
a person who has been elected to the parliament of a country
membership noun
1. [ U ] the state of belonging to an organization
You have to apply for membership UK of / US in the sports club.
a membership fee/card
Annual membership (= the amount you have to pay to join a particular
organization for one year) is £25.
2. [ C + singular or plural verb ] all the people who belong to an organization
Our membership is/are divided on the issue.
The society has a very large membership (= number of members) .
membership noun
1. [ U ] the state of belonging to an organization
You have to apply for membership UK of / US in the sports club.
a membership fee/card
Annual membership (= the amount you have to pay to join a particular
organization for one year) is £25.
2. [ C + singular or plural verb ] all the people who belong to an organization
Our membership is/are divided on the issue.
The society has a very large membership (= number of members) .
membrane noun [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED
1. a thin piece of skin that covers or connects parts of a person's or animal's body
The cornea is the transparent membrane that covers the front of the eye.
2. a very thin piece of material that covers an opening
3. the outer covering of a cell
a cell membrane
memento noun [ C ]
an object that you keep to remember a person, place or event
I keep a stone as a memento of our holiday.
memo noun [ C ] ( FORMAL memorandum )
a message or other information in writing sent by one person or department to
another in the same business organization
Did you get my memo about the meeting?
memoir noun
1. [ C ] a book or other piece of writing based on the writer's personal knowledge
of famous people, places or events
She has written a memoir of her encounters with W.H. Auden over the years.
2. memoirs
[ plural ] ( US ALSO memoir ) a written record of a usually famous person's own life
and experiences
She plans to write her memoirs.
Waugh's first volume of memoirs dealt with his childhood and youth.
memorabilia plural noun
objects that are collected because they are connected with a person or event
which is thought to be very interesting
an auction of pop memorabilia
Elvis memorabilia
memorable adjective
likely to be remembered or worth remembering
a memorable performance
a memorable tune
I haven't seen them since that memorable evening when the boat capsized.
memorably adverb
The book includes a range of memorably eccentric characters.
memorandum noun [ C ] DOCUMENT
1. SPECIALIZED a short written report prepared specially for a person or group of
people which contains information about a particular matter
Michael Davis has prepared a memorandum outlining our need for an additional
warehouse.
2. LEGAL an informal legal agreement
The three countries have signed a memorandum pledging to work together.
memorandum noun [ C ] MESSAGE
3. FORMAL a memo
memorandum noun [ C ] DOCUMENT
1. SPECIALIZED a short written report prepared specially for a person or group of
people which contains information about a particular matter
Michael Davis has prepared a memorandum outlining our need for an additional
warehouse.
2. LEGAL an informal legal agreement
The three countries have signed a memorandum pledging to work together.
memorandum noun [ C ] MESSAGE
3. FORMAL a memo
memorial noun [ C ]
an object, often large and made of stone, which has been built to honour a
famous person or event
a war memorial
The statue was erected as a memorial to those who died in the war.
memorial adjective [ before noun ]
A memorial event or object is a way of remembering a person or people who have
died
Hundreds of people came to Professor Conner's memorial service .
A memorial garden was to be created for the Princess in a London park.
memorize , UK USUALLY memorise verb [ T ]
to learn something so that you will remember it exactly
When I was at school, we were required to memorize a poem every week.
memory noun ABILITY TO REMEMBER
1. [ C or U ] the ability to remember information, experiences and people
a good/bad memory
After the accident he suffered from loss of memory/memory loss .
She has an excellent memory for names (= She can remember names easily) .
memory noun EVENT REMEMBERED
2. [ C ] something that you remember from the past
I have vivid memories of that evening.
That tune really brings back memories (= makes me remember past events) .
School is just a dim/distant memory for me now (= something I cannot
remember very well) .
memory noun COMPUTER
3. [ C usually singular U ] the part of a computer in which information or
programs are stored either permanently or temporarily, or the amount of space
available on it for storing information
My computer has a gigabyte of memory.
from memory
If you say something, such as a poem, or sing a song from memory, you speak or
sing without looking at any words or music.
have a memory like an elephant
to be able to remember things easily and for a long period of time
in memory of sb
as a way of remembering someone who has died
A service was held in memory of those who had died in the fighting.
take a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane
to remember happy times in the past
within your memory
at a time that you are able to remember
Women had gained the vote within my grandmother's memory.
ˈ memory ˌ span noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the number of things someone can remember after being shown a set of objects on ˈ
memory ˌ span noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the number of things someone can remember after being shown a set of objects
once, or more generally, the length of time someone can remember something
ˈ Memory ˌ Stick noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a small piece of equipment that you use for storing information or pictures from
equipment such as a digital camera, a PDA, etc.
See picture computer
men
PLURAL OF man (MALE)
menace noun
1. [ C usually singular ] something that is likely to cause harm
Drunk drivers are a menace to everyone.
Dogs running loose are a public menace.
the menace of industrial pollution
2. [ U ] a dangerous quality that makes you think someone is going to do

something bad
He had a slight air of menace which I found unsettling.
He spoke with a hint of menace.
3. [ C ] a person, especially a child, who is very annoying
4. demand money with menaces UK LEGAL
to demand money using threats
He was accused of unlawfully demanding money with menaces.
menace verb [ T ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
If someone or something menaces a person or thing, they threaten seriously to

harm it
Hurricane Hugo menaced the US coast for a week.
menacing adjective
making you think that someone is going to do something bad
a menacing look/gesture
menacingly adverb
menage , ménage noun [ S + sing/pl verb ] FORMAL
a group of people living together in the same house
ménage à trois noun [ C ]
an arrangement in which three people live together and have sexual relationships
with each other
ce, or more generally, the length of time someone can remember something
ménage à trois noun [ C ]
an arrangement in which three people live together and have sexual relationships
with each other
menagerie noun [ C ]
a collection of wild animals which are kept privately or to show to the public
mend verb [ T ] MAINLY UK
to repair something that is broken or damaged
Could you mend this hole in my shirt?
I've left my watch at the jeweller's to be mended.
The plumber came to mend the burst pipe.
The country's president is seeking to mend relations with the United States.
mend your fences
to try to be friendly again with someone after an argument
mend your ways
to begin to behave well having until now behaved badly
mend noun [ C ] MAINLY UK
a place in a piece of clothing where a repair has been made
be on the mend INFORMAL
to be getting better after an illness or injury
She's been ill with flu but she's on the mend now.
mendacious adjective FORMAL
not telling the truth
Some of these statements are misleading and some downright mendacious.
mendacity noun [ U ] FORMAL
the act of not telling the truth
Politicians are often accused of mendacity.
mendicant noun [ C ] FORMAL
someone who lives by asking people they do not know for money, especially for
religious reasons
mendicant adjective
mending noun [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED
clothes that need to be mended
I have a pile of mending to do.
mending noun [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED
clothes that need to be mended
I have a pile of mending to do.
menfolk plural noun OLD-FASHIONED
the men in a family or society
menial adjective DISAPPROVING
describes work that is boring, makes you feel tired, and is given a low social value
It's fairly menial work , such as washing dishes and cleaning floors.
a menial job/task
meningitis noun [ U ]
a serious infectious disease that causes the tissues around the brain and spinal
cord to swell
meniscus noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED BODY PART
1. a curved piece of cartilage inside a joint (= place where two bones are
connected) of the body such as the knee
meniscus noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED LIQUID
2. on a liquid, a surface that curves either out or in as a result of surface tension
menopause noun [ U ] ( INFORMAL the change (of life) )
the time in a woman's life when she gradually stops having periods (= blood flow
from her womb each month)
Most women go through UK the menopause/ US menopause between the ages
of 45 and 55.
menopausal adjective
menopausal women/symptoms
menorah noun [ C or S ]
in the Jewish religion, a special candle holder with places for 7-9 candles, which is
used in religious celebrations
men's room noun [ C usually singular ] US ( UK the gents )
a toilet for men in a public building such as a hotel or restaurant
menstrual adjective SLIGHTLY FORMAL
connected with the time when a woman menstruates
menstrual pain
the menstrual cycle
See also premenstrual
menstrual adjective SLIGHTLY FORMAL
connected with the time when a woman menstruates
menstrual pain
the menstrual cycle
See also premenstrual
ˌ menstrual ˈ period noun [ C ]
FORMAL FOR period (= the blood flow from a woman's womb that happens every
month)
menstruate verb [ I ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
When a woman menstruates, blood flows from her womb for a few days every
month.
menstruation noun [ U ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
when a woman menstruates
the onset of menstruation
menswear noun [ U ]
1. clothing for men
2. the part of a large shop where you find men's clothing
-ment suffix
used to form nouns which refer to an action or process or its result
a great achievement
successful management
a disappointment
mental adjective
1. [ before noun ] relating to the mind, or involving the process of thinking
His physical and mental health had got worse.
Many people suffer from some form of mental illness during their lives.
She had a mental picture (= a picture in her mind) of how the house would look
when they finished decorating it.
Compare physical
2. UK SLANG crazy
ˌ mental ˈ age noun [ C usually singular ]
A person's mental age is a measurement of their ability to think when compared
to the average person's ability at that age
Although Andrew is twenty-five, he has a mental age of six.
ˌ mental a ˈ rithmetic noun [ U ]
calculations that you do in your mind, without writing down any numbers
ˌ mental a ˈ rithmetic noun [ U ]
calculations that you do in your mind, without writing down any numbers
ˌ mental ˈ block noun [ C ]
If you have a mental block about something, you cannot understand it or do it
because something in your mind prevents you
He's got a mental block about names - he just can't remember them.
ˌ mental ˈ cruelty noun [ U ]
behaviour that causes extreme unhappiness to another person but which does not
involve physical violence
She divorced her husband on the grounds of mental cruelty.
ˌ mental ˈ handicap noun [ C usually singular ]
OLD-FASHIONED FOR learning difficulties
ˈ mental ˌ hospital noun [ C ]
OLD-FASHIONED FOR psychiatric hospital
ˌ mental ˈ illness noun [ C or U ]
an illness that affects the mind
mentality noun [ C usually singular ]
a person's particular way of thinking about things
I can't understand the mentality of people who hurt defenceless animals.
He hopes that closer links between Britain and the rest of Europe will change the
British mentality towards foreigners.
mentally adverb
connected with or related to the mind
mentally ill
It's going to be a tough competition but I'm mentally prepared for it.
ˌ mentally de ˈ fective adjective OLD-FASHIONED
If you say that someone is mentally defective, you mean that their brain is
damaged because of an accident or illness or has been damaged since birth and that
they have low mental abilities.
ˌ mental ˈ note noun
make a mental note of sth
to make an effort to remember something
I made a mental note of her address.
ˌ mental ˈ note noun
make a mental note of sth
to make an effort to remember something
I made a mental note of her address.
menthol noun [ U ]
a solid white natural substance that smells and tastes like mint
Menthol can help to clear your nose when you have a cold.
menthol cigarettes
mentholated adjective
containing menthol as a flavour
mention verb [ T ]
1. to speak about something quickly, giving little detail or using few words
I'll mention your ideas to Jacinta.
[ + ( that ) ] He casually mentioned (that) he was leaving his job.
[ + -ing verb ] My wife mentioned see ing you the other day.
[ + question word ] Did she happen to mention wh ether she would be coming?
2. to refer to something or someone
I promised never to mention the incident again.
Did she mention me in her letter?
Don't mention it.
said to be polite after someone has thanked you
"Thanks for your help." "Don't mention it."
not to mention
used when you want to emphasize something that you are adding to a list
He's one of the kindest and most intelligent, not to mention handsome, men I
know.
mention noun
1. [ C ] a short remark or written statement
The story didn't even get a mention in the newspaper.
When I ordered the catalogue, there was no mention of any payment.
2. [ S ] when something or someone is mentioned
Even the mention of her name makes him blush.
3. [ C ] when a person is publicly praised for having done something, such as
their job, extremely well
At the awards ceremony, Chrissie Scott got/received a special mention for her
reporting of the conflict.
mentor noun [ C ]
a person who gives another person help and advice over a period of time and
often also teaches them how to do their job
Compare protégé
mentor verb [ T ]
to help and give advice to someone who has less experience that you, especially
in your job
mentoring noun [ U ]
mentor noun [ C ]
a person who gives another person help and advice over a period of time and
often also teaches them how to do their job
Compare protégé
mentor verb [ T ]
to help and give advice to someone who has less experience that you, especially
in your job
mentoring noun [ U ]
menu noun [ C ] FOOD
1. a list of the food that you can eat in a restaurant
The waiter brought the menu and the wine list.
What's on the menu today?
menu noun [ C ] COMPUTING
2. a list of choices that can be made to appear on a computer screen
Select the 'Edit' menu and then choose 'Copy'.
ˈ menu ˌ bar noun [ C ]
a long, narrow area usually at the top of a computer screen that contains lists of
instructions to the computer. These lists are kept out of view until you choose to see
them
Click 'File' in the menu bar, then click 'Exit'.
menu-driven adjective SPECIALIZED
A computer that is menu-driven is operated by making choices from different
menus rather than by giving separate instructions on a keyboard.
ˈ menu ˌ option noun [ C ]
one of the choices available in a computer menu (= a list of choices which appear
on a computer screen)
meow noun [ C ] , verb , [ I ]
US FOR miaow
MEP noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Member of the European Parliament: a person who represents an
area of a European country in the European Parliament
Mephistopheles noun LITERARY
the devil
Merc noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
a car made by Mercedes-Benz
mercantile adjective FORMAL
related to trade or business
mercenary adjective DISAPPROVING
interested only in the amount of money that you can get from a situation
He had some mercenary scheme to marry a wealthy widow.
mercenary noun [ C ]
a soldier who fights for any country or group that pays them
merchandise noun [ U ] FORMAL
goods that are bought and sold
Shoppers complained about poor quality merchandise and high prices.
Japan exported $117 billion in merchandise to the US in 1999.
merchandise verb [ T ] US SPECIALIZED
to encourage the sale of goods by advertising them or by making certain that they
are noticed
She had to merchandise the new product line.
merchandising noun [ U ]
products connected with a popular film, singer, event, etc., or the selling of these
products
merchant noun [ C ]
1. FORMAL a person whose job is to buy and sell products in large amounts,
especially by trading with other countries
a wine/grain merchant
2. UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING someone who is involved in or enjoys something
which is unpleasant or annoying to others
a gossip merchant (= someone who enjoys talking about people's private lives)
a speed merchant (= someone who drives too fast)
merchant of doom/gloom UK DISAPPROVING
someone who is always saying that bad things are going to happen
With exports rising and unemployment falling, the merchants of gloom are having
to revise their opinions of the economy.
ˌ merchant ˈ bank noun [ C ]
a bank which does business with companies rather than with people
merchant banker noun [ C ]
mercantile adjective FORMAL
related to trade or business
mercenary adjective DISAPPROVING
interested only in the amount of money that you can get from a situation
He had some mercenary scheme to marry a wealthy widow.
mercenary noun [ C ]
a soldier who fights for any country or group that pays them
merchandise noun [ U ] FORMAL
goods that are bought and sold
Shoppers complained about poor quality merchandise and high prices.
Japan exported $117 billion in merchandise to the US in 1999.
merchandise verb [ T ] US SPECIALIZED
to encourage the sale of goods by advertising them or by making certain that they
are noticed
She had to merchandise the new product line.
merchandising noun [ U ]
products connected with a popular film, singer, event, etc., or the selling of these
products
merchant noun [ C ]
1. FORMAL a person whose job is to buy and sell products in large amounts,
especially by trading with other countries
a wine/grain merchant
2. UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING someone who is involved in or enjoys something
which is unpleasant or annoying to others
a gossip merchant (= someone who enjoys talking about people's private lives)
a speed merchant (= someone who drives too fast)
merchant of doom/gloom UK DISAPPROVING
someone who is always saying that bad things are going to happen
With exports rising and unemployment falling, the merchants of gloom are having
to revise their opinions of the economy.
ˌ merchant ˈ bank noun [ C ]
a bank which does business with companies rather than with people
merchant banker noun [ C ]
the ˌ merchant ˈ navy noun [ S ] UK ( US the merchant marine )
the ships of a country that are used for trading and not for fighting
ˌ merchant ˈ seaman noun [ C ]
a sailor who works on a trading ship
merciful adjective APPROVING PERSON
1. describes someone who shows kindness and forgiveness to people who are in
their power
"God is merciful," said the priest.
a merciful ruler
merciful adjective APPROVING EVENT/SITUATION
2. describes an event or situation which you are grateful for because it stops
something unpleasant
After such a long illness, her death came as a merciful release .
mercifully adverb APPROVING
His illness was mercifully brief .
merciless adjective DISAPPROVING
having or showing no mercy
There are reports of merciless attacks on innocent civilians.
There was no shelter from the merciless (= very strong) heat.
mercilessly adverb
Louis was teased mercilessly by his schoolmates.
mercurial adjective LITERARY
1. changing suddenly and often
a mercurial temperament
She was entertaining but unpredictable, with mercurial mood swings.
2. intelligent, enthusiastic and quick
a mercurial mind/wit
mercury noun [ U ]
( OLD USE quicksilver ) a heavy silver-coloured metal which is liquid at ordinary
temperatures
Mercury is used in batteries, pesticides and thermometers.
the mercury OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
the temperature
With the mercury climbing to 40 degrees, beaches and pools will be crowded this
afternoon.
Mercury noun [ S ]
the planet closest in distance to the Sun, before Venus
mercy noun KINDNESS
1. [ U ] kindness and forgiveness shown towards someone you have authority
over
She appealed to the judge to have mercy on her husband.
The prisoners pleaded for mercy.
The gunmen showed no mercy, killing innocent men and women.
2. be at the mercy of sb/sth
to be in a situation where someone or something has complete power over you
Poor people are increasingly at the mercy of money-lenders.
mercy noun EVENT/SITUATION
3. [ S ] an event or situation which you are grateful for because it stops
something unpleasant
After months of suffering, his death was a mercy.
They were on a mercy mission to take food to the refugees when they were
attacked.
ˈ mercy ˌ killing noun [ C or U ]
the act of killing someone who is very ill or very old so that they do not suffer any
more
mere adjective [ before noun ]
used to emphasize that something is not large or important
The plane crashed mere minutes after take-off.
It cost a mere twenty dollars.
The mere thought of it makes me ill.
merely adverb
used to emphasize that you mean exactly what you are saying and nothing more
I wasn't complaining, I merely said that I was tired.
The medicine won't cure her - it merely stops the pain.
merest adjective
the merest
used to emphasize the surprising or strong effect of a very small action or event
The merest mention of seafood makes her feel sick.
The merest hint of criticism makes him defensive.
meretricious adjective FORMAL
seeming attractive but really false or of little value
He claims that a lot of journalism is meretricious and superficial.
merge verb
1. [ I or T ] to combine or join together, or to cause things to do this
They decided to merge the two companies into one.
The country's two biggest banks are planning to merge.
After a while the narrow track merges with a wider path.
2. [ I ] US FOR filter in
merger noun [ C ]
when two or more companies join together
She's an attorney who advises companies about mergers and takeovers.
The merger of these two companies would create the world's biggest accounting
firm.
meridian noun [ C ]
an imaginary line from the North Pole to the South Pole, drawn on maps to help to
show the position of a place
The prime meridian of longitude is in Greenwich, South London.
meringue noun [ C or U ]
a very light sweet cake made by mixing sugar with the colourless part of an egg
and baking it
lemon meringue pie
meringue noun [ C or U ]
a very light sweet cake made by mixing sugar with the colourless part of an egg
and baking it
lemon meringue pie
merino noun [ C ]
a breed of sheep which produces soft good-quality wool
merino wool
merit noun [ C or U ]
1. FORMAL the quality of being good and deserving praise
an entertaining film with little artistic merit
Her ideas have merit.
Brierley's book has the merit of being both informative and readable.
2. the merits of sth
the advantages something has compared to something else
We discussed the merits of herbal tea.
3. on your (own) merits
according to the qualities you have or have shown, without considering any other
information or comparing you to someone else
The committee say they will consider / judge each applicant on his or her own
merits.
merit verb [ T ] FORMAL
If something merits a particular treatment, it deserves or is considered important
enough to be treated in that way
This plan merits careful attention.
The accident merited only a small paragraph in the local paper.
meritocracy noun [ C or U ]
a social system or society in which people have power because of their abilities,
not because of their money or social position
The prime minister claims he wants to create a classless meritocracy in Britain.
meritorious adjective FORMAL
deserving great praise
an award for meritorious service
mermaid noun [ C ]
mermaid
an imaginary creature described in stories, with the upper body of a woman and
the tail of a fish
merrily adverb
1. showing happiness or enjoyment
Her eyes sparkled merrily.
2. INFORMAL without thinking about the result of what you are doing or about the
problems it might cause
The factory has been merrily pumping chemical waste into the river for the past
ten years.
merrily adverb
1. showing happiness or enjoyment
Her eyes sparkled merrily.
2. INFORMAL without thinking about the result of what you are doing or about the
problems it might cause
The factory has been merrily pumping chemical waste into the river for the past
ten years.
merriment noun [ U ]
when people laugh or have an enjoyable time together
Sounds of merriment came from the kitchen.
His unusual name has long been a source of merriment among his friends.
merry adjective HAPPY
1. OLD-FASHIONED happy or showing enjoyment
the merry sound of laughter
She's a merry little soul.
merry adjective DRUNK
2. POLITE WORD FOR slightly drunk
You got a bit merry last night, didn't you Cath?
Merry Christmas!
said at Christmas to wish people a pleasant Christmas period
Hello, Phoebe. Merry Christmas!
The shop assistant wished me a Merry Christmas.
merry-go-round noun [ C ] FOR CHILDREN
1. ( UK ALSO roundabout , US ALSO carousel ) a large machine at a fair which turns
round and has wooden or plastic animals or vehicles on which children ride
The girls wanted the merry-go-round to go faster.
merry-go-round noun [ C ] SEVERAL ACTIVITIES
2. a series of similar activities, which can often seem boring
With his first book came the endless merry-go-round of publicity and interviews.
merrymaking noun [ U ] LITERARY
when people are celebrating and having an enjoyable time
The eating, drinking and merrymaking went on late into the night.
mescalin noun [ U ] ( ALSO mescaline )
a drug obtained from peyote (= a type of desert plant) that makes you hallucinate
(= see things which do not exist)
mesh noun [ C or U ]
(a piece of) material like a net with spaces in it, made from wire, plastic or thread
a sieve with a fine/large mesh
a wire mesh fence
mesh verb [ I ] SUIT
1. When different things or people mesh, they suit each other or work well
together
The members of the team just didn't mesh.
Whether the new personal pension works will depend much on how well it meshes
with employers' schemes.
mesh verb [ I ] JOIN
2. SPECIALIZED to join together in the correct position
The car's gears aren't meshing properly.
mesh noun [ C or U ]
(a piece of) material like a net with spaces in it, made from wire, plastic or thread
a sieve with a fine/large mesh
a wire mesh fence
mesh verb [ I ] SUIT
1. When different things or people mesh, they suit each other or work well
together
The members of the team just didn't mesh.
Whether the new personal pension works will depend much on how well it meshes
with employers' schemes.
mesh verb [ I ] JOIN
2. SPECIALIZED to join together in the correct position
The car's gears aren't meshing properly.
mesmeric adjective LITERARY
making you give your attention completely so that you cannot think of anything
else
music with a repetitive, slightly mesmeric quality
mesmerize , UK USUALLY mesmerise verb
1. [ T often passive ] to have someone's attention completely so that they cannot
think of anything else
I was completely mesmerized by the performance.
2. [ T ] OLD-FASHIONED FOR hypnotize
mesmerizing , UK USUALLY mesmerising adjective
very attractive, in a mysterious way, making you want to keep looking
He had the most mesmerizing blue eyes.
mesophyll noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the part of a leaf between the two thin surface layers, containing the cells
responsible for photosynthesis
the mesosphere noun [ S ] SPECIALIZED
the layer of gases surrounding the Earth at a height of between 50 and 100
kilometres
See also stratosphere ; troposphere
mess noun DIRT/UNTIDINESS
1. [ S or U ] Something or someone that is a mess or is in a mess, looks dirty or
untidy
He makes a terrible mess when he's cooking.
Jem's house is always in a mess.
Go and clear up that mess in the kitchen.
Ian can't stand mess.
I look a mess - I can't go out like this!
My hair's such a mess today!
2. [ C ] an animal's solid waste
Fido left another mess on the carpet.
mess noun PROBLEMS
3. [ S ] a situation that is full of problems
She said that her life was a mess.
I got myself into a mess by telling a lie.
The company's finances are in a mess.
4. [ S ] a person whose life is full of problems they cannot deal with
After the divorce he was a real mess and drinking too much.
5. make a mess of sth ( ALSO mess sth up )
to do something badly or spoil something
I've made a real mess of my exams.
mess noun ROOM
6. [ C ] ( US ALSO mess hall ) a room or building in which members of the armed
forces have their meals or spend their free time
The group captain was having breakfast in the mess hall.
They spent their evenings in the officers' mess, drinking and playing cards.
mess verb
1. [ T ] MAINLY US ( UK mess up ) to make something untidy
Don't you dare mess my hair!
2. [ I ] to leave solid waste somewhere
Next door's dog has messed on our steps again!
(and) no messing UK INFORMAL
said to emphasize that you want something to be done
I want you both in bed by 9 o'clock, no messing!
mess sb about/around phrasal verb UK
to treat someone badly
I'm tired of being messed around by my bank.
Don't mess me about!
mess about phrasal verb UK
mess around
mess around phrasal verb ( UK ALSO mess about ) SPEND TIME
1. INFORMAL to spend time doing various things that are not important, without any
particular purpose or plan
They spend their weekends messing around on their boat.
My brother likes messing around with computers.
He spent the day with friends, just messing about.
mess around phrasal verb ( UK ALSO mess about ) ACT STUPIDLY
2. to behave in a stupid or annoying way
Stop messing about and listen to me!.
mess around with sth phrasal verb ( UK ALSO mess about with sth ) INFORMAL
to use or treat something in a careless or harmful way
I don't want him coming in here and messing around with our computers.
Never mess around with scissors.
mess around with sb phrasal verb MAINLY US INFORMAL
If a married man or woman messes around with someone, they have a sexual
relationship with someone who is not their wife or husband.
She found out that her husband was messing around with his secretary.
mess sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make something untidy or dirty
Who's messed up the bookshelf?
mess (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to spoil or damage something, or to do something wrong or badly
I feel I've messed up my chances of becoming a great singer.
He says that his divorce has really messed his life up.
You've really messed up this time.
mess sb up phrasal verb CAUSE PROBLEMS
1. to cause someone to suffer emotional and mental problems
Drugs can really mess you up.
mess sb up phrasal verb INJURE
2. US SLANG to hit someone repeatedly so that they are badly injured
mess with sth/sb phrasal verb INFORMAL
to use or become involved with something or someone dangerous
You shouldn't mess with drugs.
mess with sth phrasal verb MAINLY US
to try to change or repair something, but not carefully and usually without success
He was messing with his bike and then he couldn't fit the parts back together.
mess with sb phrasal verb INFORMAL
to treat someone in a bad, rude or annoying way, or to start an argument with
them
I've warned you already, don't mess with me!
message noun [ C ] INFORMATION
1. a short piece of information that you give to a person when you cannot speak
to them directly
If I'm not there when you phone, leave a message.
[ + that ] I got a message that she'll be late.
message noun [ C ] IDEA
2. the most important idea in a book, film or play
The film's message is that rich and poor are alike.
3. get the message INFORMAL
to understand what someone is trying to tell you, even if they are not expressing
themselves directly
I never answer his calls and I ignore him every time I see him, so you'd think he'd
get the message.
4. get the message across
to make someone understand
We need to get the message across that too much sun is dangerous.
message verb [ T ]
to send someone a text message
I messaged him yesterday but haven't had a reply.
message noun [ C ] INFORMATION
1. a short piece of information that you give to a person when you cannot speak
to them directly
If I'm not there when you phone, leave a message.
[ + that ] I got a message that she'll be late.
message noun [ C ] IDEA
2. the most important idea in a book, film or play
The film's message is that rich and poor are alike.
3. get the message INFORMAL
to understand what someone is trying to tell you, even if they are not expressing
themselves directly
I never answer his calls and I ignore him every time I see him, so you'd think he'd
get the message.
4. get the message across
to make someone understand
We need to get the message across that too much sun is dangerous.
message verb [ T ]
to send someone a text message
I messaged him yesterday but haven't had a reply.
ˈ message ˌ board noun [ C ]
a place on a website where you can leave messages for other people to read
messed-up adjective SLANG
unhappy and emotionally confused
She was really messed-up as a teenager.
messenger noun [ C ]
someone who takes a message or documents from one person to another
The documents were delivered by special messenger.
a messenger boy
Don't shoot the messenger. SAYING
said to warn someone not to be angry with the person who tells them something
bad
messiah noun [ S ]
a leader who is believed to have the power to solve the world's problems
An ordinary priest, he was hailed by thousands as the new messiah.
the Mes ˈ siah noun [ S ]
1. in the Christian religion, Jesus Christ
2. in the Jewish religion, the King of the Jews who will be sent by God
messianic adjective
1. FORMAL relating or belonging to a messiah
He announced the imminent arrival of a messianic leader .
2. describes a religious group which believes that a leader will or has come who
has the power to change the world and bring peace
a messianic cult/movement/sect
3. describes a speech or style which is very determined and full of emotion
She talks about her work with a messianic zeal .
Messrs FORMAL PLURAL OF
Mr (= title used before a man's name) used before the names of two or more
people, usually in the title of a company
Messrs Wood and Laurence, solicitors
Messrs FORMAL PLURAL OF
Mr (= title used before a man's name) used before the names of two or more
people, usually in the title of a company
Messrs Wood and Laurence, solicitors
mess-up noun [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL
something which has been done badly
He made a real mess-up of the sales figures.
messy adjective DIRTY/UNTIDY
1. untidy
a messy kitchen
messy hands/hair
His bedroom's always messy.
2. producing or causing dirt and untidiness
Eating spaghetti can be a messy business.
Vicky cooks really well but she's rather messy.
messy adjective SITUATION
3. describes a situation that is confused and unpleasant
A war will be a long and messy business .
They had a bitter, messy divorce.
messily adverb
met verb
PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF meet
met adjective [ before noun ]
( USUALLY Met ) MAINLY UK INFORMAL FOR meteorological
the Met Office
the Met noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
ABBREVIATION FOR the Metropolitan Police
metabolism noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
all the chemical processes in your body, especially those that cause food to be
used for energy and growth
Exercise is supposed to speed up your metabolism.
metabolic adjective SPECIALIZED
The athletes had taken pills to stimulate their metabolic rate (= the speed at
which their bodies used energy) .
metafiction noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
writing about imaginary characters and events in which the process of writing is
discussed or described
metafictional adjective
The novel contains several complex metafictional elements.
metafiction noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
writing about imaginary characters and events in which the process of writing is
discussed or described
metafictional adjective
The novel contains several complex metafictional elements.
metal noun [ C or U ]
a chemical element, such as iron or gold, or a mixture of such elements, such as
steel, which electricity and heat can travel through and which is generally hard and
strong
Metal, paper and glass can be recycled.
Silver, gold and platinum are precious metals.
The wooden beam is reinforced with a metal plate.
metalanguage noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a specialized form of language or set of symbols used when discussing or
describing the structure of a language
ˈ metal de ˌ tector noun [ C ]
a machine that you move over the ground or a surface to discover if there is
metal there
He goes round fields and beaches with his metal detector, hoping to find buried
treasure.
ˈ metal fa ˌ tigue noun [ U ]
a weakness which develops in metal structures which are used repeatedly
metalled adjective UK SPECIALIZED
describes a road covered with small or crushed stones
metallic adjective
1. describes a sound, appearance or taste which is like metal
a dull, metallic sound
Beer from a can often has a metallic taste .
Our new car is metallic blue.
2. SPECIALIZED consisting of, or partly consisting of, metal
Brass is a metallic alloy of copper and zinc.
metalloid noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a chemical element with some of the properties of a metal and some of a non-
metal, for example silicon and arsenic
metallurgist noun [ C ]
a person who studies or knows about metals
metallurgist noun [ C ]
a person who studies or knows about metals
metallurgy noun [ U ]
the scientific study of the structures and uses of metals
She has a doctorate in metallurgy from the University of Utah.
metallurgical adjective
a metallurgical process
the metallurgical industry
metalwork noun [ U ]
1. the activity of making metal objects
Her favourite subject at school is metalwork.
2. the metal part of something
Rust has damaged the metalwork of the bicycle.
metamorphic adjective SPECIALIZED
(of rock) changed into a new form and structure by very great heat and pressure
Slate and gneiss are metamorphic rocks.
Compare igneous ; sedimentary
metamorphose , verb [ I ] FORMAL
to change into a completely different form or type
The awkward boy I knew had metamorphosed into a tall, confident man.
metamorphosis noun
1. [ C ] a complete change
Under the new editor, the magazine has undergone a metamorphosis.
2. [ U ] SPECIALIZED the process by which the young form of insects and some
animals, such as frogs , develops into the adult form
metaphor noun [ C or U ]
an expression which describes a person or object in a literary way by referring to
something that is considered to have similar characteristics to the person or object you
are trying to describe
'The mind is an ocean' and 'the city is a jungle' are both metaphors.
Metaphor and simile are the most commonly used figures of speech in everyday
language.
a metaphor for sth
a symbol which represents a particular thing
The author uses disease as a metaphor for the corruption in society.
In the film, the city is a metaphor for confusion and loneliness.
metaphorical adjective ( ALSO metaphoric )
1. describes language which contains metaphors
Her second novel is written in a very metaphorical style.
2. not having real existence but symbolic and showing some truth about a
situation or other subject
A metaphorical ocean (= extremely large area of disagreement) lies between the
two groups.
There is a danger that America's metaphoric 'war on drugs' may turn into a
bloody reality.
metaphorically adverb
The phrase 'born again' is used metaphorically to mean that someone has
suddenly become very religious.
By leaving school without any qualifications, she has, metaphorically speaking ,
shot herself in the foot (= harmed her chances of success) .
metaphorical adjective ( ALSO metaphoric )
1. describes language which contains metaphors
Her second novel is written in a very metaphorical style.
2. not having real existence but symbolic and showing some truth about a
situation or other subject
A metaphorical ocean (= extremely large area of disagreement) lies between the
two groups.
There is a danger that America's metaphoric 'war on drugs' may turn into a
bloody reality.
metaphorically adverb
The phrase 'born again' is used metaphorically to mean that someone has
suddenly become very religious.
By leaving school without any qualifications, she has, metaphorically speaking ,
shot herself in the foot (= harmed her chances of success) .
metaphysics noun [ U ]
the part of philosophy that is about understanding existence and knowledge
metaphysical adjective
Most teenagers ask themselves metaphysical questions such as "What is love?"
and "What is death?"
metastasize verb [ I ] SPECIALIZED
If cancer cells metastasize, they spread to other parts of the body and cause
tumours (= a mass of cells) to grow there.
metastasis noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
when cancer cells metastatize
metatarsal noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
one of the bones in your foot between your ankle and your toes
mete verb
mete sth out phrasal verb [ M often passive ] FORMAL
to give or order a punishment or make someone receive cruel or unfair treatment
Victorian schoolteachers regularly meted out physical punishment to their pupils.
meteor noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a piece of rock or other matter from space that produces a bright light as it
travels through the Earth's atmosphere
See also shooting star ; falling star
meteoric adjective OF A ROCK
1. relating to or caused by a meteor
The sudden flash of light in the night sky was caused by a meteoric fireball.
meteoric adjective VERY FAST
2. describes something which develops very fast and attracts a lot of attention
The group had a meteoric rise to fame in the 70s.
Her parliamentary career has been meteoric.
meteorite noun [ C ]
a piece of rock or other matter from space that has landed on Earth
meteorite noun [ C ]
a piece of rock or other matter from space that has landed on Earth
meteorological adjective ( INFORMAL met )
relating to weather conditions
Accurate meteorological records began 100 years ago.
meteorologist noun [ C ]
someone who studies meteorology
meteorology noun [ U ]
the scientific study of the processes that cause particular weather conditions
meter noun [ C ] DEVICE
1. a device that measures the amount of something that is used
The electricity meter is under the stairs.
You'll need some change for the parking meter.
The man from the gas board came to read the meter (= see how much gas had
been used) .
2. the device in a taxi that measures the distance or the amount of time spent
travelling and shows how much you have to pay
The taxi driver left the meter running while I helped Mum to her front door.
meter noun [ C ] MEASUREMENT
3. US FOR metre
meter verb [ T ]
to use meters to measure how much gas, electricity or water is used
Britain's water companies are planning to meter water consumption.
methadone noun [ U ]
a drug which is often given to people who are trying to stop using heroin
methamphetamine noun [ U ] ( ALSO (crystal) meth )
a drug that makes your mind and body more active. It is addictive (= you cannot
stop taking it when you have started) and some people take it illegally.
methane noun [ U ]
a colourless gas without a smell, which is often used as a fuel
Methane is the main constituent of natural gas.
methane noun [ U ]
a colourless gas without a smell, which is often used as a fuel
Methane is the main constituent of natural gas.
methanol noun [ U ]
a poisonous chemical substance which is the simplest type of alcohol
methinks
OLD USE OR HUMOROUS FOR I think
There's more to this than meets the eye, methinks.
metho noun [ U ]
AUSTRALIAN INFORMAL FOR methylated spirits
method noun [ C ]
a particular way of doing something
Travelling by train is still one of the safest methods of transport.
The new teaching methods encourage children to think for themselves.
have method in your madness ( US USUALLY have a method to your madness )
to have a good reason for what you are doing, although you seem to be behaving
strangely
ˈ method ˌ acting noun [ U ] ( ALSO the Method )
a style of acting in which an actor tries to understand and feel the emotions of the
character he or she represents
Robert De Niro has been a faithful exponent of 'the Method', immersing himself
totally in his roles and notorious for gaining and losing whatever weight has been
necessary to convey the character.
method actor noun [ C ]
methodical adjective
describes people who do things in a very ordered, careful way
Tom is a very methodical person and writes lists for everything.
methodically adverb
Methodism noun [ U ]
the beliefs and activities of a Christian group which follows the teachings of John
Wesley
Methodist noun [ C ] , adjective
Her parents were staunch Methodists.
the Methodist church
a Methodist minister
Wesley
methodology noun [ C or U ]
a system of ways of doing, teaching or studying something
The methodology and findings of the research team have been criticized.
methodological adjective
meths noun [ U ]
UK INFORMAL FOR methylated spirits
Methuselah noun
in the Bible, a man who was said to have lived for 969 years
as old as Methuselah HUMOROUS
describes an extremely old person
methylated spirits noun [ U ] ( INFORMAL meths ) UK
a liquid made from alcohol and other chemicals, used to remove dirty marks and
as a fuel in small heaters and lights
meticulous adjective APPROVING
very careful and with great attention to every detail
Many hours of meticulous preparation have gone into writing the book.
meticulously adverb
The entire project was meticulously planned.
meticulousness noun [ U ]
metier noun [ C ] ( ALSO métier ) FORMAL
the type of work that you have a natural ability to do well
Rose tried painting but found her metier in music.
ˈ me ˌ time noun [ U ]
time when you can do what you want to do
All mothers of young children should try to find some me time.
the ˈ Met ˌ Office noun [ S ]
the British government department that studies weather conditions and says what
is expected to happen with the weather
The Met Office says that the heat wave will continue for most of the week.
a Met Office forecast/spokesman
Wesley
methodology noun [ C or U ]
a system of ways of doing, teaching or studying something
The methodology and findings of the research team have been criticized.
methodological adjective
meths noun [ U ]
UK INFORMAL FOR methylated spirits
Methuselah noun
in the Bible, a man who was said to have lived for 969 years
as old as Methuselah HUMOROUS
describes an extremely old person
methylated spirits noun [ U ] ( INFORMAL meths ) UK
a liquid made from alcohol and other chemicals, used to remove dirty marks and
as a fuel in small heaters and lights
meticulous adjective APPROVING
very careful and with great attention to every detail
Many hours of meticulous preparation have gone into writing the book.
meticulously adverb
The entire project was meticulously planned.
meticulousness noun [ U ]
metier noun [ C ] ( ALSO métier ) FORMAL
the type of work that you have a natural ability to do well
Rose tried painting but found her metier in music.
ˈ me ˌ time noun [ U ]
time when you can do what you want to do
All mothers of young children should try to find some me time.
the ˈ Met ˌ Office noun [ S ]
the British government department that studies weather conditions and says what
is expected to happen with the weather
The Met Office says that the heat wave will continue for most of the week.
a Met Office forecast/spokesman
metonymy noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
when something is referred to by a word which describes a quality or feature of
that thing
metonym noun [ C ]
metonymic adjective
me-too adjective [ before noun ] INFORMAL
A company's me-too product is one that is designed to be similar to a very
popular product made by another company.
metre UK , US meter noun MEASUREMENT
1. [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION m ) a unit of measurement equal to 100 centimetres
The bomb shelter has concrete walls that are three metres thick.
a 15-metre yacht
She won the 100 metres (= a race run over this distance) at the Olympics.
He is 1m 75 tall.
The price of water rose to 48p per cubic metre (= a unit of volume equal to 1000
litres) .
The room is six metres square.
metre UK , US meter noun POETRY
2. [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED the regular arrangement of syllables in poetry according
to the number and type of beats in a line
He composes poems in a classical style and in strict metre.
Many hymns have a firm, regular metre.
metre UK , US meter noun MEASUREMENT
1. [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION m ) a unit of measurement equal to 100 centimetres
The bomb shelter has concrete walls that are three metres thick.
a 15-metre yacht
She won the 100 metres (= a race run over this distance) at the Olympics.
He is 1m 75 tall.
The price of water rose to 48p per cubic metre (= a unit of volume equal to 1000
litres) .
The room is six metres square.
metre UK , US meter noun POETRY
2. [ C or U ] SPECIALIZED the regular arrangement of syllables in poetry according
to the number and type of beats in a line
He composes poems in a classical style and in strict metre.
Many hymns have a firm, regular metre.
metric adjective MAINLY UK
using or relating to a system of measurement that uses metres, centimetres,
litres etc
The recipe is given in both metric and imperial measures.
Most high-tech industry has been metric for decades.
metrication noun [ U ]
when you change from measuring things in imperial units and start to use metric
units
ˌ metric ˈ ton noun [ C ]
a unit of weight equal to 1000 kilograms
metro noun [ U ]
an underground electric railway system in some cities, especially in France
Let's go by Metro.
a metro station
the Paris metro
metro adjective [ before noun ] US
relating to a large city and the area surrounding it
This guidebook includes a map of the Phoenix metro area.
metronome noun [ C ]
metronome
a device that produces a regular repeated sound like a clock, to help musicians
play music at a particular speed
metropolis noun [ C ] FORMAL
a very large city, often the most important city in a large area or country
Soon afterwards he left to begin his career in the metropolis.
a sprawling/bustling/modern metropolis
metropolitan adjective
relating to a large city
the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York
He was drawn to the metropolitan glamour and excitement of Paris.
a metropolitan area/council
the Metro ˌ politan Po ˈ lice plural noun ( INFORMAL the Met ) UK
the police responsible for London
metrosexual noun [ C ]
a man who is attracted to women sexually but who is also interested in fashion
and his appearance
mettle noun [ U ]
ability and determination when competing or doing something difficult
The German athletes showed/proved their mettle in the final round.
The real test of her political mettle came in the May elections.
on your mettle
ready to do something as well as you can in a difficult situation
Both players were on their mettle in the final round.
Cooking for such important people really puts you on your mettle.
mew noun [ C ]
the soft crying sound that a cat makes
Compare miaow ; purr
mew verb [ I ]
When a cat mews, it makes a soft crying sound.
mews noun [ C ] MAINLY UK
1. a building which was used in the past for keeping horses and is now used as a
house
They bought a converted mews.
a tiny mews house
2. a short narrow road where these buildings are found
Their new address is 6 Gloucester Mews.
Mexican adjective
from, belonging to or relating to Mexico
Mexican noun [ C ]
a person from Mexico
ˌ Mexican ˈ stand off noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN
a situation in which people on opposite sides threaten each other but neither tries
to come to an agreement
the Metro ˌ politan Po ˈ lice plural noun ( INFORMAL the Met ) UK
the police responsible for London
metrosexual noun [ C ]
a man who is attracted to women sexually but who is also interested in fashion
and his appearance
mettle noun [ U ]
ability and determination when competing or doing something difficult
The German athletes showed/proved their mettle in the final round.
The real test of her political mettle came in the May elections.
on your mettle
ready to do something as well as you can in a difficult situation
Both players were on their mettle in the final round.
Cooking for such important people really puts you on your mettle.
mew noun [ C ]
the soft crying sound that a cat makes
Compare miaow ; purr
mew verb [ I ]
When a cat mews, it makes a soft crying sound.
mews noun [ C ] MAINLY UK
1. a building which was used in the past for keeping horses and is now used as a
house
They bought a converted mews.
a tiny mews house
2. a short narrow road where these buildings are found
Their new address is 6 Gloucester Mews.
Mexican adjective
from, belonging to or relating to Mexico
Mexican noun [ C ]
a person from Mexico
ˌ Mexican ˈ stand off noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN
a situation in which people on opposite sides threaten each other but neither tries
to come to an agreement
ˌ Mexican ˈ wave noun [ C usually singular ] UK ( US the Wave )
a wave-like movement made by a crowd watching a sports game, when everyone
stands and lifts up their arms and then sits down again one after another
The crowd did a Mexican wave.
Mexico noun [ U ]
mezzanine , noun [ C ]
1. a small extra floor between one floor of a building and the next floor up
You can look down from the mezzanine into the ground floor lobby.
The shoe department is on the mezzanine floor.
2. US the front few rows of seats of the level above ground, or all of the level
above ground, in a place such as a theatre or sports stadium
mezzo-soprano noun [ C or U ] ( INFORMAL mezzo )
a voice or musical part lower than soprano but higher than contralto , or a singer
with this type of voice
She's the country's leading mezzo-soprano.
mg
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR milligram
mg
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR milligram
MHz
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR megahertz
mi noun
1. WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR mile(s)
a radius of 5 mi
mi noun
2. [ U ] me (MUSIC)
MI5 noun [ U + sing/pl verb ]
the official British organization that is responsible for protecting military and
political secrets
MI6 noun [ U + sing/pl verb ]
the official British organization that is responsible for discovering foreign military
and political secrets
miaow , US USUALLY meow noun [ C ]
the high crying sound of a cat
Compare mew ; purr
miaow verb [ I ]
A cat was miaowing pitifully outside the door.
miasma noun [ C ] LITERARY FOG
1. an unpleasant fog that smells bad
A miasma of pollution hung in the air above Mexico City.
miasma noun [ C ] LITERARY UNPLEASANT FEELING
2. a very unpleasant general feeling or character of a situation or place
After he lost his job, he sank into a miasma of poverty and despair.
mic noun
US INFORMAL FOR microphone
mica noun [ U ]
a natural substance like glass that breaks easily into thin layers and is not
damaged by heat, often used in electrical equipment
mica noun [ U ]
a natural substance like glass that breaks easily into thin layers and is not
damaged by heat, often used in electrical equipment
mice
mouse
PLURAL OF
mick , Mick noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
a person from Ireland, or a Roman Catholic
mickey noun MAKE FUN
1. take the mickey/mick (out of someone) UK INFORMAL
to laugh at someone and make them seem silly, by copying their behaviour or
tricking them in a funny or unkind way
A group of other boys were taking the mickey out of him.
She's always taking the mick - she's got no respect for the managers at all.
mickey noun DRUG
2. [ C ] ( ALSO mickey finn ) SLANG a drug added to a drink, especially an alcoholic
drink, in order to make the person who drinks it unconscious
He must have slipped the guard a mickey finn.
ˌ Mickey ˈ Mouse adjective [ before noun ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
describes something such as an organization, machine or course of study that you
think is not as good or serious as it should be
He works for some Mickey Mouse outfit (= company) in Oklahoma.
micro noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR microcomputer
micro adjective
describes something which is very small in size or scale
The company has a 20% share in the market for mini or micro cars.
micro- prefix SMALL
1. very small
a microorganism
microbiology
Compare macro-
micro- prefix MEASUREMENT
2. 1 000 000th of the stated unit
a micrometre
a microgram
microbe noun [ C ]
a very small living thing, especially one which causes disease, and which is too
small to see without a microscope
microbe noun [ C ]
a very small living thing, especially one which causes disease, and which is too
small to see without a microscope
microbiology noun [ U ]
the study of very small living things, such as bacteria
microbiological adjective
microbiologist noun [ C ]
microbrew noun [ C ] MAINLY US
a beer made in a microbrewery
Their new bar sells a large selection of microbrews.
microbrewery noun [ C ] MAINLY US
a small company which makes beer, usually using traditional methods, and which
often has a restaurant where its beer is served
Redhook was one of the first microbreweries in Seattle, Washington.
microchip noun [ C ]
a chip (COMPUTER PART)
microcircuit noun
an integrated circuit
microclimate noun [ C ]
an area in which the weather is usually different from the areas around it
microcomputer noun [ C ] ( INFORMAL micro )
a small computer containing a microprocessor (= part which controls operations)
microcosm noun [ C or U ]
a small place, society or situation which has the same characteristics as
something much larger
The audience was selected to create a microcosm of American society.
Compare macrocosm
microeconomics noun [ U ]
the study of the economic problems of businesses and people and the way
particular parts of an economy behave
microeconomics noun [ U ]
the study of the economic problems of businesses and people and the way
particular parts of an economy behave
microelectronics noun [ U ]
the science and technology involved in the making and using of very small
electronic parts
microfiche noun [ C or U ] ( ALSO fiche )
a small rectangular sheet of film on which information is photographed in a
reduced size
The information is now available on microfiche.
ˈ microfiche ˌ reader noun [ C ]
a machine which shows information from a microfiche on a screen, made larger so
that it can be read
Does the library have a microfiche reader?
microfilm noun [ C or U ]
film which is used for photographing information in a reduced size, or a piece of
this film
microfilm verb [ T ]
The paper records were microfilmed to save storage space.
microgram noun [ C ]
0.000 001 of a gram
microlight , ALSO microlite noun [ C ]
microlight
an extremely light and small aircraft with a very small engine, which carries only
one or two people
micromanage verb [ T ] OFTEN DISAPPROVING
to control every part of a situation, even small details
The senator was criticized for micromanaging his presidential campaign.
micromanagement noun [ U ]
micromanager noun [ C ]
micrometer noun [ C ]
a device used for making very exact measurements or for measuring very small
things
micrometer noun [ C ]
a device used for making very exact measurements or for measuring very small
things
micrometre UK , US micrometer noun [ C ]
a micron
micron noun [ C ]
0.000 001 of a metre
Micronesia noun [ U ]
Micronesian noun [ C ] , adjective
microorganism noun [ C ]
a living thing which on its own is too small to be seen without a microscope
microphone noun [ C ] ( INFORMAL mike/mic )
a piece of equipment that you speak into to make your voice louder, or to record
your voice or other sounds
The interviewer asked her to speak into/use the microphone.
My laptop has a built-in microphone.
See picture microphone
micropower noun [ U ] ( ALSO microgeneration )
the use of your own equipment and the sun, wind, etc to produce all the heat and
power that you need
Micropower could eventually fuel most homes.
microprocessor noun [ C ]
a part of a computer that controls its main operations
microscope noun [ C ]
microscope
a device that uses lenses to make very small objects look larger, so that they can
be scientifically examined and studied
They looked at the blood samples under the microscope.
put sth under the microscope
to examine or think about a situation very carefully
The investigation put the company's financial accounts under the microscope
microscopic adjective
1. INFORMAL HUMOROUS extremely small
The helpings you get in the office canteen are microscopic!
2. SPECIALIZED very small and only able to be seen with a microscope
microscopic algae
microscopically adverb INFORMAL OR SPECIALIZED
microscopically small
1. INFORMAL HUMOROUS extremely small
The helpings you get in the office canteen are microscopic!
2. SPECIALIZED very small and only able to be seen with a microscope
microscopic algae
microscopically adverb INFORMAL OR SPECIALIZED
microscopically small
microscopy noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the use, design or production of microscopes
Microscopy is an invaluable technique for studying the structure of cells.
microsecond noun [ C ]
0.000 001 of a second
microsurgery noun [ U ]
operations on very small areas of a body, for example nerve fibres (= structures
like threads) or the small tubes that carry blood
She underwent microsurgery to re-attach her severed fingers.
microwave noun [ C ]
1. ( ALSO microwave oven ) an electric oven that uses waves of energy to cook or
heat food quickly
Put the fish in the microwave and it'll only take 5 minutes.
2. a very short electromagnetic wave used for cooking food or for sending
information by radio or radar
microwave verb [ T ]
to cook something in a microwave
Shall I microwave something for dinner?
microwaveable , US microwavable adjective
microwaveable frozen chips
mid preposition OLD-FASHIONED LITERARY
among or in the middle of
mid- prefix
the middle of
mid-March
mid-afternoon
US the Mideast
He's in his mid-thirties.
He stopped (in) mid-sentence.
mid-air noun [ U ]
a point in the air, not on the ground
She caught the ball in mid-air.
mid-air adjective
a mid-air collision
mid-air noun [ U ]
mid-air adjective
a mid-air collision
Midas noun
the Midas touch
If someone has the Midas touch, they are financially successful in everything they
do.
midday noun [ U ]
12 o'clock in the middle of the day
I just have a sandwich at midday/for my midday meal.
middle noun
1. [ S ] the central point, position or part
This is my class photo - I'm the one in the middle.
He was standing in the middle of the road.
The noise woke us up in the middle of the night.
2. [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL waist
Those trousers look a bit tight around your middle.
be in the middle of sth
to be busy with an activity
Someone phoned when I was in the middle of bathing the baby.
divide/split (sth) down the middle
to separate, or to divide something, into two equal parts
Let's split the cost right down the middle.
The family is split down the middle on this issue.
(in) the middle of nowhere INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
describes a place far away from any towns and cities and where few people live
He lives in a tiny cottage in the middle of nowhere.
middle adjective [ before noun ]
1. in a central position
In the sequence a, b, c, d, e, the middle letter is c.
Jane sits at the middle desk, between Sue and Karen.
2. neither high nor low in importance, amount or size
middle income families
a middle -sized (= average-sized) sheepdog
3. describes a child who has the same number of older brothers and sisters as
younger brothers and sisters
She's the middle child of three.
4. describes a form of a particular language which existed between its origin and
its present form
14th century Middle English
Middle French
follow/steer/take the middle course/way/path
to act in a way that is not extreme and that you consider will cause least harm
Most parents steer a middle course between strict discipline and letting their kids
run wild.
ˌ middle ˈ age noun [ U ]
the period of your life, usually considered to be from about 45 to 60 years old,
when you are no longer young, but are not yet old
Once you reach middle age, you have to be sensible with your health.
mid-air noun [ U ]
mid-air adjective
a mid-air collision
Midas noun
the Midas touch
If someone has the Midas touch, they are financially successful in everything they
do.
midday noun [ U ]
12 o'clock in the middle of the day
I just have a sandwich at midday/for my midday meal.
middle noun
1. [ S ] the central point, position or part
This is my class photo - I'm the one in the middle.
He was standing in the middle of the road.
The noise woke us up in the middle of the night.
2. [ C usually singular ] INFORMAL waist
Those trousers look a bit tight around your middle.
be in the middle of sth
to be busy with an activity
Someone phoned when I was in the middle of bathing the baby.
divide/split (sth) down the middle
to separate, or to divide something, into two equal parts
Let's split the cost right down the middle.
The family is split down the middle on this issue.
(in) the middle of nowhere INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
describes a place far away from any towns and cities and where few people live
He lives in a tiny cottage in the middle of nowhere.
middle adjective [ before noun ]
1. in a central position
In the sequence a, b, c, d, e, the middle letter is c.
Jane sits at the middle desk, between Sue and Karen.
2. neither high nor low in importance, amount or size
middle income families
a middle -sized (= average-sized) sheepdog
3. describes a child who has the same number of older brothers and sisters as
younger brothers and sisters
She's the middle child of three.
4. describes a form of a particular language which existed between its origin and
its present form
14th century Middle English
Middle French
follow/steer/take the middle course/way/path
to act in a way that is not extreme and that you consider will cause least harm
Most parents steer a middle course between strict discipline and letting their kids
run wild.
ˌ middle ˈ age noun [ U ]
the period of your life, usually considered to be from about 45 to 60 years old,
when you are no longer young, but are not yet old
Once you reach middle age, you have to be sensible with your health.
middle-aged adjective
1. in middle age
They're a middle-aged couple, with grown-up children.
2. DISAPPROVING too careful and not showing the enthusiasm, energy or style of
someone young
What a conventional, middle-aged attitude he has to life!
the ˈ Middle ˌ Ages plural noun
a period in European history, between about 1000 AD and 1500 AD, when the
power of kings, people of high rank and the Christian Church was strong
middle-age spread noun [ U ] HUMOROUS
fat around the waist that some people get as they grow older
ˌ Middle Am ˈ erica/ ˈ England noun [ U ]
the part of American/English society that is neither rich nor poor and does not
have extreme political or religious opinions
middlebrow adjective MAINLY DISAPPROVING
describes music, literature, art or film which is of good quality, interesting and
often popular, but can be understood quite easily
Compare highbrow ; lowbrow
middlebrow noun [ C ]
a person who enjoys middlebrow music, literature, art or films
middlebrow adjective MAINLY DISAPPROVING
describes music, literature, art or film which is of good quality, interesting and
often popular, but can be understood quite easily
middlebrow noun [ C ]
a person who enjoys middlebrow music, literature, art or films
ˌ middle ˈ C noun [ C usually singular ] SPECIALIZED
the musical note C near the middle of the keyboard on a piano
ˌ middle ˈ class noun [ S + sing/pl verb ] ( ALSO the middle classes )
a social group that consists of well-educated people, such as doctors, lawyers,
and teachers, who have good jobs and are neither very rich nor very poor
The upper middle class tend to go into business or the professions, becoming, for
example, lawyers, doctors or accountants.
Compare lower class ; upper class ; working class
middle-class adjective
a middle-class suburb of New York
the middle-distance adjective [ before noun ]
describes a race which is run over a medium distance, especially 800 or 1500
metres
a middle-distance event/runner
ˌ middle ˈ distance noun [ U ]
the part of a picture or a view that is neither very near nor very far away
From the top of the hill we could see the ocean far away and, in the middle
distance, the village.
Compare background ; foreground
ˌ middle ˈ ear noun [ S ]
the central part of the ear, behind the eardrum , through which sound travels
the ˌ Middle ˈ East noun [ S ] ( US ALSO the Mideast )
the area from the eastern Mediterranean to Iran, including Syria, Jordan, Israel,
Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq, and sometimes also Egypt
He worked in the Middle East for ten years.
Compare the Far East
Middle Eastern adjective
Middle Eastern capitals include Baghdad and Tel Aviv.
ˌ middle ˈ finger noun [ C ]
the longest finger on the hand
See picture hand 1
ˌ middle ˈ finger noun [ C ]
the longest finger on the hand
See picture hand 1
ˌ middle ˈ ground noun [ U ]
a position between two opposite opinions in an argument, or between two
descriptions
The UN peace envoy has failed to find any middle ground between the
government and the opposition parties.
He can be magical, he can be comical, but only rarely does he occupy the middle
ground.
middleman noun [ C ]
1. a person who buys goods from a producer and makes a profit by selling them
to a shop or a user
You can lower the price by cutting out (= avoiding the use of) the middleman
and buying directly from the factory.
2. someone who communicates or makes arrangements between two people or
groups who are unwilling or unable to meet or deal directly with each other
ˌ middle ˈ management noun [ U + sing/pl verb ]
the people within a company who are in charge of departments or groups, but
who are below those in charge of the whole company
He cut hundreds of jobs in middle management.
middle manager noun [ C ]
ˌ middle ˈ name noun [ C ]
the name some people have between their first name and their last name
be sb's middle name INFORMAL
to be a quality that is an important part of someone's character
Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. Discretion is my middle name.
middle-of-the-road adjective
describes a person, organization, opinion or type of entertainment that is not
extreme and is acceptable to or liked by most people
middle-of-the-road pop music
They adopted a sensible, middle-of-the-road policy on defence spending.
ˈ middle ˌ school noun [ C ]
in parts of the UK and the US, a school for children between the ages of about 9
and 14
ˈ middle ˌ school noun [ C ]
in parts of the UK and the US, a school for children between the ages of about 9
and 14
middleweight noun [ C ]
a boxer whose weight is between light heavyweight and welterweight
the ˌ Middle ˈ West noun [ S ]
the Midwest
middling , adjective INFORMAL
medium or average; neither very good nor very bad
a man of about middling height
a middling performance
middy noun [ C ] AUSTRALIAN
a beer glass of medium size, which contains 285 ml
midfield noun [ C or U ]
the central area of a sports field, or a central structure of a sports team
Simon's a defender, but I always play in midfield.
Arsenal's defence were strong, but their midfield fell apart in the first five minutes
of the match.
a midfield player
midfielder noun [ C ]
Inter Milan have signed two new midfielders.
midge noun [ C ]
a small fly which flies in groups, and often bites
midget noun [ C ] OFFENSIVE
a very small person
midget adjective [ before noun ]
1. describes an object that is much smaller than usual
a midget submarine/car
2. US Midget sports are organized competitions for children
Tyler wasn't interested in signing up for midget football.
MIDI noun
SPECIALIZED ABBREVIATION FOR Musical Instrument Digital Interface: a system for
allowing electronic musical instruments to communicate with each other
MIDI noun
SPECIALIZED ABBREVIATION FOR Musical Instrument Digital Interface: a system for
allowing electronic musical instruments to communicate with each other
ˈ MIDI ˌ system noun [ C ]
a piece of high-quality electronic equipment for playing music, usually including a
CD player, a tape deck and a radio
Compare mini-system
the ˈ Midlands noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
the central part of England, including the cities of Birmingham, Coventry,
Nottingham and Derby
midlands adjective ( ALSO midland )
He's got a real midlands accent.
mid-life crisis noun [ C ]
feelings of unhappiness, worry and disappointment that some people experience
at about 40 years old and that can sometimes lead them to make important changes in
their life
See also menopause ; male menopause
midmorning adjective [ before noun ]
in the middle of the morning
a midmorning coffee break
midnight noun [ U ]
12 o'clock in the middle of the night
There's a great film on TV at midnight.
It was after midnight when we got home.
ˌ midnight ˈ feast noun [ C ] UK
a meal eaten late at night, often in secret
The children raided the fridge for a midnight feast.
the ˌ midnight ˈ sun noun [ S ]
the sun when seen in the middle of the night in summer in the arctic or antarctic
(= the parts of the world furthest to the north and the south)
midpoint noun [ C usually singular ] DISTANCE
1. a point half the distance along something such as a line
The driveway is 20m long, so the midpoint must be at 10m.
midpoint noun [ C usually singular ] TIME
2. a point in the middle of a period of time
the midpoint of the football season
midpoint noun [ C usually singular ] DISTANCE
1. a point half the distance along something such as a line
The driveway is 20m long, so the midpoint must be at 10m.
midpoint noun [ C usually singular ] TIME
2. a point in the middle of a period of time
the midpoint of the football season
midriff noun [ C ] ( US ALSO midsection )
the part of the human body between the chest and the waist
She wore a short T-shirt that revealed her midriff.
midshipman noun [ C ]
a person training to become an officer in a navy
midsized adjective ( ALSO mid-size ) MAINLY US
describes something such as an organization or vehicle that is neither large nor
small
a midsized family car
midst , noun [ U ] FORMAL
1. the middle of a group of people or things
She caught sight of Johnny in their midst (= among them) , laughing and talking.
2. in the midst of sth
in the middle of an event, situation or activity
I'm afraid I'm too busy - I'm in the midst of writing up a report.
The country is in the midst of an economic crisis.
midst , preposition LITERARY
among
The summit of the mountain appeared midst the clouds.
midstream noun [ U ]
the middle of a river where the water flows fastest
They slowly paddled the boat into midstream.
(in) midstream
in the middle of an activity, often one that is interrupted
She interrupted him in midstream to ask a question.
midsummer noun [ U ]
1. the period in the middle of summer
I don't normally take my holiday in midsummer.
a midsummer evening
2. the summer solstice , the day of the year on which it is light for the longest
length of time (21 June in northern parts of the world, 22 December in southern parts
of the world)
It's midsummer sometime this week, isn't it?
Midsummer('s) Day noun [ U ] UK
June 24th
Midsummer('s) Day noun [ U ] UK
June 24th
midterm adjective
in the middle of the period when a government is in office
The governing party usually does badly in midterm by-elections.
midterm noun [ U ]
US FOR half term
midway adverb
1. half the distance between two places
Leeds is midway between London and Edinburgh.
2. in the middle of a process or period of time
She stopped working midway through her pregnancy.
midway noun [ C ] US
a part of a fair, circus etc. where there are games of skill and other types of
entertainment
Some people go to the state fair to see the livestock, but I prefer the midway.
midweek noun [ U ]
the middle of the week, usually from Tuesday to Thursday
By midweek, the situation had become worrying.
midweek adjective
midweek adverb
The magazine comes out midweek.
the Midwest noun [ S ]
an area in the US which includes Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin,
Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Missouri and Kansas
A tornado destroyed grain crops across much of the Midwest.
Midwestern adjective
relating to the Midwest
a Midwestern city/state
midwife noun [ C ]
a person, usually a woman, who is trained to help women when they are giving
birth
midwifery noun [ U ]
At nursing college, she specialized in midwifery.
midwife noun [ C ]
a person, usually a woman, who is trained to help women when they are giving
birth
midwifery noun [ U ]
At nursing college, she specialized in midwifery.
midwinter noun [ U ]
1. the middle of the winter
Temperatures can drop well below freezing in midwinter.
2. the winter solstice , the particular day of the year on which it is light for the
shortest period of time (22 December in northern parts of the world, 21 June in
southern parts of the world)
They celebrate midwinter by lighting candles.
mien noun [ C ] LITERARY
a person's appearance, especially the typical expression on their face
His aristocratic mien and smart clothes singled him out.
miffed adjective INFORMAL
annoyed at someone's behaviour towards you
She hadn't phoned for a week and I was getting quite miffed.
might modal verb MAY
1. PAST SIMPLE OF the verb may , used especially when reporting what someone has
said, thought, asked, etc
I brought him some sandwiches because I thought he might be hungry.
Very politely the little boy asked if he might have another piece of cake (= he said
"May I have another piece of cake, please?") .
might modal verb POSSIBILITY
2. used to express the possibility that something will happen or be done, or that
something is true although not very likely
I might come and visit you in America next year, if I can save enough money.
Don't go any closer - it might be dangerous/it mightn't be safe.
Driving so fast, he might have had a nasty accident (= it could have happened
but it did not) .
The rain might have stopped by now.
might modal verb PERMISSION
3. UK FORMAL used as a more polite form of may when asking for permission
Might I ask a question?
I wonder if I might have a quick look at your newspaper?
might modal verb SUGGESTION
4. used to make a suggestion or suggest a possibility in a polite way
You might like to try a little more basil in the sauce next time.
I thought you might like to join me for dinner.
might modal verb SHOULD
5. used to suggest, especially angrily, what someone should do to be pleasant,
correct, polite, etc
You might at least try to look like you're enjoying yourself!
"I've asked the boss to dinner tonight." "Well, you might have warned me!"
might modal verb INTRODUCE
6. ( ALSO may ) used to introduce a statement which is very different from the
statement you really want to make, in order to compare the two
Leeds might be an excellent team, but today they played appallingly.
I might have known SLIGHTLY DISAPPROVING
said when you are not surprised at a situation or someone's behaviour, because
you expected it
I might have known (that) he'd still be in bed at noon.
might I ask/inquire/know UK FORMAL
used in questions to show disapproval by being more polite than is expected
And what are you doing in there, might I ask?
might noun [ U ]
power, strength or force
Pizarro defeated the might of the Inca Empire with only a few hundred men.
She struggled with all her might to get free.
with might and main OLD-FASHIONED LITERARY
with as much effort as possible
They shouted with might and main but nobody came to rescue them.
might-have-been noun [ C ]
something positive which could have been achieved, but was not
There's no point now in regretting the might-have-beens.
might-have-been noun [ C ]
something positive which could have been achieved, but was not
There's no point now in regretting the might-have-beens.
mightily adverb FORMAL
with great effort
He spent ten years struggling mightily with the bureaucracy.
mightn't short form of
might not
Don't panic - it mightn't be true.
might've short form of
might have
She might've taken it with her to read on the train.
mighty adjective LITERARY
very large, powerful or important
In the next game they will face the mighty Redskins.
the mighty River Po
mighty adverb MAINLY US INFORMAL
very
They offered to raise salaries by 12% - that's a mighty generous deal.
migraine , noun [ C or U ]
severe continuous pain in the head, often with vomiting and difficulty in seeing
Do you suffer from migraine?
Considering the amount of stress she's under, it's not surprising she keeps
getting migraines.
a migraine headache
migrant noun [ C ]
a person or animal that travels from one place to another
These birds are winter migrants from Scandinavia.
The cities are full of migrants looking for work.
migrant workers
a migrant population
migrate verb TRAVEL/MOVE
1. [ I ] When an animal migrates, it travels to a different place, usually when the
season changes
These animals migrate annually in search of food.
In September, these birds migrate 2000 miles south to a warmer climate.
2. [ I ] If people migrate, they travel in large numbers to a new place to live
temporarily
Mexican farm workers migrate into the US each year to find work at harvest time.
3. [ I ] to move from one place to another
Trade is migrating from local shops to the larger out-of-town stores.
migrate verb COMPUTING
4. [ I or T ] SPECIALIZED to begin using a new computer system, or to move
information from one type of system to another
Migrating to Windows XP shouldn't cause you any problems.
migration noun [ C or U ]
There was a mass migration of poverty-struck farmers into the cities.
Compare immigration ; emigration
migratory , adjective
migratory birds
migrate verb TRAVEL/MOVE
1. [ I ] When an animal migrates, it travels to a different place, usually when the
season changes
These animals migrate annually in search of food.
In September, these birds migrate 2000 miles south to a warmer climate.
2. [ I ] If people migrate, they travel in large numbers to a new place to live
temporarily
Mexican farm workers migrate into the US each year to find work at harvest time.
3. [ I ] to move from one place to another
Trade is migrating from local shops to the larger out-of-town stores.
migrate verb COMPUTING
4. [ I or T ] SPECIALIZED to begin using a new computer system, or to move
information from one type of system to another
Migrating to Windows XP shouldn't cause you any problems.
migration noun [ C or U ]
There was a mass migration of poverty-struck farmers into the cities.
Compare immigration ; emigration
migratory , adjective
migratory birds
mike , US ALSO mic noun [ C ]
INFORMAL FOR microphone
.mil
INTERNET ABBREVIATION FOR military: used to show that an internet address is
connected with a country's army
mild adjective SLIGHT
1. not violent, severe or extreme
She can't accept even mild criticism of her work.
He has suffered a mild heart attack - nothing too serious.
mild adjective WEATHER
2. describes weather that is not very cold or not as cold as usual
We've had a mild winter this year.
mild adjective FOOD
3. describes food or a food flavour that is not very strong
He doesn't like a hot curry - he prefers a mild one.
a mild chilli sauce
mild adjective GENTLE
4. gentle and calm
a shy, mild sort of guy
mildness noun [ U ]
mildness of manner
mild noun [ U ]
a dark beer, drunk in some parts of Britain, that does not have a very strong or
bitter taste
Compare bitter
mildew noun [ U ]
a black, green or whitish area caused by a fungus that grows on things such as
plants, paper, cloth or buildings, usually if the conditions are warm and wet
There are patches of mildew on the walls.
mildewed adjective
mildewed rose bushes
mildly adverb
1. slightly
I was mildly surprised to see him here.
2. in a gentle way
"I think you've made a mistake," he said mildly.
to put it mildly
used for saying that something is much more extreme than your words suggest
It has been a remarkable day, to put it mildly.
mildly adverb
1. slightly
I was mildly surprised to see him here.
2. in a gentle way
"I think you've made a mistake," he said mildly.
to put it mildly
used for saying that something is much more extreme than your words suggest
It has been a remarkable day, to put it mildly.
mild-mannered adjective
describes a person who is gentle and does not show extreme emotions
a mild-mannered philosophy professor
mile noun
1. [ C ] a unit of distance equal to 1760 yards or 1.6 kilometres
a ten-mile drive
The nearest town is ten miles away.
The speed limit is 30 miles an/per hour.
2. miles
[ plural ] a very long way
From the top, we could see for miles in every direction.
He lives miles away on the other side of town.
be miles away MAINLY UK
to not be conscious of what is happening around you because you are thinking
about something else
You could tell by the expression on her face that she was miles away, thinking
about home.
a mile a minute
very quickly
Mike was very excited talking a mile a minute .
a mile off
If you can see or realize something a mile off, you notice it easily and quickly
She's lying - you can tell it a mile off.
(by) miles INFORMAL
used to say something is much greater or better than something else
British restaurant food is better by miles/miles better than it used to be 20 years
ago.
miles from anywhere/nowhere
a long distance from other houses or a town
They live miles from nowhere, in the middle of the countryside.
miles too big/small/expensive, etc. INFORMAL
very much bigger/smaller/more expensive, etc. than you would like
This tea is miles too sweet!
stand/stick out a mile
to be very obvious or easy to see
His lack of experience sticks out a mile.
mileage noun [ U ] DISTANCE TRAVELLED
1. the distance that a vehicle has travelled or the distance that it can travel using
a particular amount of fuel
'What's the mileage on your car?' 'Oh, about 40 000'.
Smaller cars have better mileage and so cost less to run.
mileage noun [ U ] MONEY FOR TRAVEL
2. ( ALSO mileage allowance ) the amount of money that you are paid or that you
must pay for each mile you travel
The car costs £30 a day to rent, but you get unlimited mileage (= no charge for
the miles travelled) .
mileage noun [ U ] ADVANTAGE
3. INFORMAL the advantage that you can get from a situation
There's no mileage in complaining to the Director - she'll just ignore you.
political mileage
mileage noun [ U ] DISTANCE TRAVELLED
1. the distance that a vehicle has travelled or the distance that it can travel using
a particular amount of fuel
'What's the mileage on your car?' 'Oh, about 40 000'.
Smaller cars have better mileage and so cost less to run.
mileage noun [ U ] MONEY FOR TRAVEL
2. ( ALSO mileage allowance ) the amount of money that you are paid or that you
must pay for each mile you travel
The car costs £30 a day to rent, but you get unlimited mileage (= no charge for
the miles travelled) .
mileage noun [ U ] ADVANTAGE
3. INFORMAL the advantage that you can get from a situation
There's no mileage in complaining to the Director - she'll just ignore you.
political mileage
mileometer UK , UK ALSO milometer noun [ C ] ( US odometer )
a device in a vehicle that measures and shows the distance it travels
milestone noun [ C ] ( UK ALSO milepost ) STONE/POST
1. a stone or post at the side of the road on which is printed the distance to
various places, especially to the nearest large town
milestone noun [ C ] ( UK ALSO milepost ) IMPORTANT EVENT
2. an important event in the development or history of something or in someone's
life
He felt that moving out from his parents' home was a real milestone in his life.
milf , MILF noun [ C ] SLANG
a sexually attractive woman who is a mother
milieu noun [ C ] FORMAL
the people, physical and social conditions and events which provide the
environment in which someone acts or lives
It is a study of the social and cultural milieu in which Michelangelo lived and
worked.
militant adjective
active, determined and often willing to use force
militant union extremists
The group has taken a militant position on the abortion issue and is refusing to
compromise.
militancy noun [ U ]
The group has always been characterised by an uncompromising militancy.
militant noun [ C ]
Militants within the party are demanding radical reforms.
militantly adverb
militarism noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
the belief that it is necessary to have strong armed forces and that they should be
used in order to win political or economic advantages
militarism noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
the belief that it is necessary to have strong armed forces and that they should be
used in order to win political or economic advantages
militarist noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a person who wants more powerful armed forces in their country
militaristic adjective
a militaristic policy/government
militarized , UK USUALLY militarised adjective
describes an area, country or organization that has a large strong army and other
armed forces and many weapons
North Korea is said to be the world's most heavily militarized country, with over 1
million men in the armed forces.
military adjective
1. relating to or belonging to the armed forces
foreign military intervention
military targets/forces
military uniform
2. describes a characteristic that is typical of the armed forces
military precision
militarily adverb
military noun
the military
the armed forces
The military has opposed any cuts in defence spending.
ˌ military a ˈ cademy noun [ C ]
1. a place where soldiers are trained to become officers
2. a private school in the US that expects obedience to rules, has uniforms and is
generally run like the armed forces
ˌ military ˈ band noun [ C ]
a group of musicians within the armed forces who play marching and military
music
ˌ military ˈ honours plural noun
ceremonies performed by soldiers to honour a king, queen or other important
person, or to honour someone important who has died
The Colonel was buried with full military honours.
ˌ military ˈ honours plural noun
ceremonies performed by soldiers to honour a king, queen or other important
person, or to honour someone important who has died
The Colonel was buried with full military honours.
the ˌ military-industrial ˈ complex noun [ S ]
the armed forces and the industries that supply them, considered as a strong
influence on government decisions and actions
He believes there is a right-wing conspiracy organized by the CIA and the
military-industrial complex to maneuver the country into another war.
the ˌ Military Po ˈ lice plural noun
the police force within the armed forces, responsible for dealing with members of
the armed forces who break the law
military policeman noun [ C ] ( ABBREVIATION MP )
ˌ military ˈ service noun [ U ]
army training that young people must do in some countries
He has to do his military service before going to university.
militate verb
militate against sth phrasal verb FORMAL
to make something less likely to happen or succeed
The complexity and costliness of the judicial system militate against justice for the
individual.
militia noun [ C + sing/pl verb ]
a military force which only operates for some of the time and whose members
often have other jobs
A UN force was sent in to stop fighting between three rival militias.
The government called out the militia to help cope with the rioting.
militiaman , noun [ C ]
a member of a militia
milk noun [ U ]
1. the white liquid produced by cows, goats, and sheep and used by humans as a
drink or for making butter, cheese, etc
a glass/carton of milk
cow's/goat's milk
skimmed/pasteurized milk
a milk bottle
2. the white liquid produced by women and other female mammals as food for
their young
Breast/Mother's milk is the best nourishment for a baby.
3. the white liquid produced by some plants and trees
coconut milk
the milk of human kindness
good, kind qualities
She's full of the milk of human kindness.
milk verb GET MILK
1. [ I or T ] to get milk from an animal
Milking a cow by hand is a skilled process.
Some goats seem to milk (= produce milk) better than others.
milk verb GET MONEY/INFORMATION
2. [ T ] DISAPPROVING to get as much money or information out of someone or
something as possible, often in a selfish or dishonest way
[ + object + adjective ] The newspapers milked the story dry .
The directors milked the company of several million pounds.
ˈ milk ˌ bar noun [ C ] MAINLY AUSTRALIAN
a shop which sells milk products, bread and sweets
ˈ milk ˌ bar noun [ C ] MAINLY AUSTRALIAN
a shop which sells milk products, bread and sweets
ˌ milk ˈ chocolate noun [ C or U ]
sweet, light brown chocolate made with milk
biscuits coated with thick milk chocolate
ˈ milk ˌ float noun [ C ] UK
a vehicle, usually with an electric motor, used to take milk to people's houses in
the UK
ˈ milking ma ˌ chine noun [ C ]
a machine used to take milk from cows
milkman noun [ C ]
someone who brings milk to your home in the early morning
Britain is one of the few countries where milk is delivered daily to the doorstep by
milkmen.
ˌ milk of mag ˈ nesia noun [ U ]
a white liquid medicine containing magnesium , taken to cure slight stomach
problems
ˈ milk ˌ round noun
1. [ C ] a route which a milkman has to take regularly or every day to take milk to
the homes of customers
Dad had a milk round and used to get up really early.
2. the milk round UK INFORMAL
[ S ] the series of visits made at a particular time of the year by large companies
to colleges to discuss giving jobs to students after they have finished their education
ˈ milk ˌ run noun [ C usually singular ]
a journey that you make often, especially one including several stops
milkshake noun [ C or U ]
a drink made of milk and usually ice cream and a flavour such as fruit or
chocolate, mixed quickly together until it is full of bubbles
a chocolate milkshake
ˈ milk ˌ tooth noun [ C ]
a baby tooth
a baby tooth
ˈ milk ˌ truck noun [ C ] US
a vehicle used to deliver milk in the US
milky adjective
1. describes a liquid containing milk or made with a lot of milk
a cup of milky coffee
Having a milky drink before bed helps me sleep.
2. white, pale or cloudy
milky skin
a milky white/blue
the ˌ Milky ˈ Way noun [ S ]
the pale strip across the sky which you can see at night, and which is part of the
galaxy (= star system) that includes the Earth
mill noun [ C ]
1. a building where grain is crushed into flour
2. a small machine for crushing things into powder
a pepper/coffee mill
See picture mill
3. a factory where a particular substance is produced
a cotton/paper/steel mill
See picture mill
put sb through the mill INFORMAL
to cause someone to have a difficult and unpleasant experience, especially by
asking them a lot of difficult questions
I had the interview this morning - they really put me through the mill.
mill verb [ T ]
1. to crush grain into flour or another substance into powder
The grain is still milled locally.
2. SPECIALIZED to shape metal by removing parts from it using a special machine
mill around phrasal verb ( UK ALSO mill about )
If a group of people mill around, they move about with no particular purpose or in
no fixed direction, sometimes while waiting for someone
In the village square, people were milling about in the sunshine.
millennium noun [ C ]
a period of 1000 years, or the time when a period of 1000 years ends
The corpse had lain preserved in the soil for almost two millennia.
How did you celebrate the Millennium?
Compare century
millennial adjective
a baby tooth
ˈ milk ˌ truck noun [ C ] US
a vehicle used to deliver milk in the US
milky adjective
1. describes a liquid containing milk or made with a lot of milk
a cup of milky coffee
Having a milky drink before bed helps me sleep.
2. white, pale or cloudy
milky skin
a milky white/blue
the ˌ Milky ˈ Way noun [ S ]
the pale strip across the sky which you can see at night, and which is part of the
galaxy (= star system) that includes the Earth
mill noun [ C ]
1. a building where grain is crushed into flour
2. a small machine for crushing things into powder
a pepper/coffee mill
See picture mill
3. a factory where a particular substance is produced
a cotton/paper/steel mill
See picture mill
put sb through the mill INFORMAL
to cause someone to have a difficult and unpleasant experience, especially by
asking them a lot of difficult questions
I had the interview this morning - they really put me through the mill.
mill verb [ T ]
1. to crush grain into flour or another substance into powder
The grain is still milled locally.
2. SPECIALIZED to shape metal by removing parts from it using a special machine
mill around phrasal verb ( UK ALSO mill about )
If a group of people mill around, they move about with no particular purpose or in
no fixed direction, sometimes while waiting for someone
In the village square, people were milling about in the sunshine.
millennium noun [ C ]
a period of 1000 years, or the time when a period of 1000 years ends
The corpse had lain preserved in the soil for almost two millennia.
How did you celebrate the Millennium?
Compare century
millennial adjective
millepede noun [ C ]
a millipede
miller noun [ C ]
a person, especially in the past, who owned or was in charge of a mill
millet noun [ U ]
a plant that is similar to grass, or the small seeds from this plant that can be
eaten
milli- prefix
0.001 of the stated unit
milliamp
millijoule
millibar noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION mb )
a unit of air pressure
an anticyclone of 1030 millibars
millibar noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION mb )
a unit of air pressure
an anticyclone of 1030 millibars
milligram , UK ALSO milligramme noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION mg )
a unit of mass which is equal to 0.001 grams
millilitre UK , US milliliter noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION ml )
a unit of volume which is equal to 0.001 litres
millimetre UK , US millimeter noun [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION mm )
a unit of length which is equal to 0.001 metres
milliner noun [ C ]
a person who makes or sells women's hats
millinery noun [ U ]
the hats and other goods that are sold by a milliner
million number
1. [ C ] the number 1 000 000
She got eight million dollars for appearing in that film.
2. a million/millions of sth INFORMAL
a large number
I must have told you a million times to close the windows when you leave the
house.
3. the millions
numbers between 1 000 000 and 1 000 000 000
In wealthy parts of the country, homes cost from £ 750 000 into the millions.
be one in a million APPROVING
to be a very special person
Thanks again - you're one in a million!
one-in-a-million
describes a chance that is extremely unlikely
Don't worry - the chances of anything going wrong are one-in-a-million.
look/feel (like) a million dollars ( US look/feel (like) a million bucks ) INFORMAL
to look or feel extremely good, often because you are experiencing something
that costs a lot of money
"You look a million dollars in that dress, honey!"
thanks a million INFORMAL
thank you very much
"I've done what you asked." "Thanks a million!"
millionaire noun [ C ] ( FEMALE ALSO millionairess )
a person who has at least 1 000 000 in their country's money
You want me to buy you a new car - do you think I'm a millionaire or something?
millionth ordinal number
1 000 000 th written as a word
Coventry City football club counted their millionth supporter through the gates
last Saturday.
INFORMAL They're showing 'High Noon' on TV for the millionth time (= having
already shown it a lot of times) .
millionth noun [ C ]
one of a million equal parts of something
a millionth of a second
millipede , millepede noun [ C ]
a small creature with a long cylindrical body consisting of many parts, each part
having two pairs of legs
millisecond noun [ C or ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION ms , ALSO msec )
a unit of time which is equal to 0.001 seconds
millpond noun [ C ]
a pool of water which provides the power to make the wheel of a mill turn
The sea that day was like a millpond (= very calm and not moving) .
millstone noun [ C ]
one of a pair of large circular flat stones used, especially in the past, to crush
grain to make flour
See picture mill
be (like) a millstone around/round your neck
to be a responsibility that is difficult to bear and causes you trouble
The mortgage on his house had become a millstone around his neck.
mime noun
1. [ U ] when you use movements of your hands and body, and expressions on
your face, without speech, to communicate emotions and actions or to tell a story
The first scene was performed in mime.
2. [ C ] a short play without speech
mime verb [ I or T ]
1. to act or tell a story in mime
The whole of the banquet scene is mimed.
2. to pretend to sing, play or say something without making any sound
Most of the bands that appear on the show just mime to a recording of their
songs.
He was miming something at me across the pub.
ˈ mime ˌ artist noun [ C ]
a person who performs mime in a theatre or film
millionth ordinal number
1 000 000 th written as a word
Coventry City football club counted their millionth supporter through the gates
last Saturday.
INFORMAL They're showing 'High Noon' on TV for the millionth time (= having
already shown it a lot of times) .
millionth noun [ C ]
one of a million equal parts of something
a millionth of a second
millipede , millepede noun [ C ]
a small creature with a long cylindrical body consisting of many parts, each part
having two pairs of legs
millisecond noun [ C or ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION ms , ALSO msec )
a unit of time which is equal to 0.001 seconds
millpond noun [ C ]
a pool of water which provides the power to make the wheel of a mill turn
The sea that day was like a millpond (= very calm and not moving) .
millstone noun [ C ]
one of a pair of large circular flat stones used, especially in the past, to crush
grain to make flour
See picture mill
be (like) a millstone around/round your neck
to be a responsibility that is difficult to bear and causes you trouble
The mortgage on his house had become a millstone around his neck.
mime noun
1. [ U ] when you use movements of your hands and body, and expressions on
your face, without speech, to communicate emotions and actions or to tell a story
The first scene was performed in mime.
2. [ C ] a short play without speech
mime verb [ I or T ]
1. to act or tell a story in mime
The whole of the banquet scene is mimed.
2. to pretend to sing, play or say something without making any sound
Most of the bands that appear on the show just mime to a recording of their
songs.
He was miming something at me across the pub.
ˈ mime ˌ artist noun [ C ]
a person who performs mime in a theatre or film
mimetic adjective SPECIALIZED
using mime
The actors have to rely on their mimetic skills.
mimetically adverb
mimic verb [ T ]
to copy the way in which a particular person usually speaks and moves, usually in
order to make people laugh
She was mimicking the various people in our office.
mimic noun [ C ]
a person who can copy the sounds or movements of other people
She's a brilliant mimic.
mimicry noun [ U ]
mimosa noun [ C ]
US FOR buck's fizz
min. noun TIME
1. [ C ] WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR minute (TIME)
Cooking time required: 30-35 mins.
min. noun SMALLEST
2. [ C usually singular ] WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR minimum , used in notices,
advertisements, etc
Holiday cottage: min. stay 3 days.
minaret noun [ C ]
minaret
a tall thin tower on or near a mosque (= Muslim holy building) from which
Muslims are called to pray
minaret noun [ C ]
minaret
a tall thin tower on or near a mosque (= Muslim holy building) from which
Muslims are called to pray
mince noun [ U ] UK ( US ground beef )
mince
meat, usually beef , which has been cut up into very small pieces
mince verb WALK
1. [ I ] to walk in an artificial way, with small delicate steps
He minced across the room in a pair of tight pink trousers.
mince verb MEAT
2. [ T ] to cut meat, or other food, into very small pieces, sometimes using a
special machine
Mince two pounds of chicken finely.
not mince ( your ) words
to say what you mean clearly and directly, even if you upset people by doing this
The report does not mince words, describing the situation as 'ludicrous'.
minced adjective ( US USUALLY ground )
(especially of meat) having been cut up into very small pieces
minced beef/lamb/onions
mincemeat noun [ U ]
a sweet, spicy mixture of small pieces of apple, dried fruit and nuts, (but not
meat), which is often eaten at Christmas in mince pies
make mincemeat of sb INFORMAL
to defeat someone very easily in an argument, competition or fight
A decent lawyer would have made mincemeat of them in court.
ˌ mince ˈ pie noun [ C ]
mince pie
a covered pastry case filled with mincemeat
mincer noun [ C ] UK ( US USUALLY meat grinder )
a machine for cutting food, especially meat, into small pieces
mincer noun [ C ] UK ( US USUALLY meat grinder )
a machine for cutting food, especially meat, into small pieces
mincing adjective SPEAK
1. describes a way of speaking that is too delicate and not direct enough
She found herself irritated by the interviewer's mincing way of asking questions.
mincing adjective WALK
2. describes an artificial way of walking with small delicate steps
He took short, mincing steps.
mind noun [ C ]
1. the part of a person that makes it possible for a person to think, feel emotions
and understand things
Her mind was full of what had happened the night before, and she just wasn't
concentrating.
Of course I'm telling the truth - you've got such a suspicious mind!
I just said the first thing that came into my mind.
I'm not quite clear in my mind about what I'm doing.
2. a very clever person
She was one of the most brilliant minds of the last century.
3. all in the/ your mind
describes a problem that does not exist and is only imagined
His doctor tried to convince him that he wasn't really ill and that it was all in the
mind.
4. bear/keep sth in mind
to remember a piece of information when you are making a decision or thinking
about a matter
Bearing in mind how young she is, I thought she did really well.
Of course, repair work is expensive and you have to keep that in mind.
5. go over sth in your mind ( ALSO turn sth over in your mind )
to think repeatedly about an event that has happened
She would go over the accident again and again in her mind, wishing that she
could somehow have prevented it.
be bored/drunk, etc. out of your mind INFORMAL
to be extremely bored/drunk, etc.
be of sound/unsound mind LEGAL
to not be mentally ill/to be mentally ill
be of the same mind ( ALSO be of one mind )
to have the same opinion
We're of the same mind on most political issues.
bring/call sth to mind
to remember something
I can see his face, but I just can't bring his name to mind.
get your mind round something
to succeed in understanding something difficult or strange
I find it hard to get my mind round such complex issues.
get sth out of your mind
to make yourself stop thinking about something
I can't get that dreadful moment/image out of my mind.
have sth on your mind
to be worrying about something
Paul's got a lot on his mind at the moment.
have a mind of its own MAINLY HUMOROUS
A machine or other object can be said to have a mind of its own if it seems to be
controlling the way it behaves or moves, independently of the person using it
This shopping trolley has a mind of its own.
have half a mind/a good mind to do sth
to think that you might do something, often because something has annoyed you
I've a good mind to go without him if he's going to be such a bore!
have something in mind
to have a plan or intention
Did you have anything in mind for Helen's present?
in your mind's eye
in your imagination or memory
In my mind's eye, she remains a little girl of six although she's actually a grown
woman.
a load/weight off your mind
when a problem which has been worrying you stops or is dealt with
I'm so relieved that I don't have to do the after-dinner speech - it's such a weight
off my mind!
make up your mind ( ALSO make your mind up )
to decide
I haven't made up my mind where to go yet.
your mind is a blank/goes blank
When your mind is a blank/goes blank, you cannot remember a particular thing,
or you cannot remember anything
I tried to remember her name, but my mind went a complete blank.
your mind is on sth
When your mind is on something, you think about it or give attention to it
I couldn't concentrate on my work - my mind was on other things.
My mind wasn't on what he was saying, so I'm afraid I missed half of it.
mind over matter
the power of the mind to control and influence the body and the physical world
generally
He announced what he called 'the ultimate test of mind over matter' - a woman
walking over hot coals.
out of your mind
1. unable to behave or deal with things normally because something has made
you very worried, unhappy or angry
She was out of her mind with grief.
I'd go out of my mind if I had to do her job all day!
2. INFORMAL extremely stupid or mentally ill
You must be out of your mind paying £200 for one night in a hotel!
put you in mind of sth
to cause you to remember something
The mention of skiing holidays put me in mind of a travelogue that I saw last
week.
put sth out of your mind
to force yourself not to think about something
It's over, put it out of your mind.
set/put sb's mind at rest/ease
to stop someone from worrying about something
Chris phoned to say they'd arrived safely, so that really put my mind at rest.
set/put your mind to sth
to decide you are going to do something and to put a lot of effort into doing it
If you'd just put your mind to it, I'm sure you could do it.
sb's state/frame of mind
the way someone feels about their life or situation at the moment
He's in a much more positive state/frame of mind these days.
take sb's mind off sth
to stop you from worrying or thinking about a problem or pain, often by forcing
you to think about other things
The good thing about running is that it takes my mind off any problems I've got.
to my mind
in my opinion
He's got pink walls and a green carpet, which to my mind looks all wrong.
mind verb OPPOSE
1. [ I or T ] (used in questions and negatives) to be annoyed or worried by
something
Do you think he'd mind if I borrowed his book?
[ + -ing verb ] I don't mind hav ing a dog in the house so long as it's clean.
INFORMAL I wouldn't mind (= I would like) something to eat, actually.
Would you mind turn ing (= Please would you turn) your radio down a little
please?
Do you mind if (= May) I put the television on?
[ + object + -ing verb ] Do you mind me smok ing ?
[ + question word ] I don't mind wh at you wear so long as it's not that awful
pink shirt.
I'd prefer to stay in tonight, if you don't mind.
MAINLY UK "Would you like tea or coffee?" "I don't mind - either."
2. Do you mind?
said to someone when you feel annoyed with them for what they have just done
or said
Do you mind? That's my seat you're sitting on!
mind verb BE CAREFUL
3. [ T ] MAINLY UK to be careful of, or give attention to something
[ + ( that ) ] Mind that box - the bottom isn't very strong.
Mind (that) you don't bang your head on the shelf when you stand up.
Mind (= Make certain that) you take enough money with you.
OLD-FASHIONED Mind your language (= Don't use swear words) , young lady!
4. Mind (out)! MAINLY UK
used to tell someone to move or be careful, or to warn them of danger
Mind out! We're coming through with the stretcher.
'Hey, mind!' he said when she trod on his foot.
Mind out for falling rocks on this part of the trail.
5. mind how you go MAINLY UK UK INFORMAL
said when you say goodbye to someone, meaning 'take care'
mind verb TAKE CARE OF
6. [ T ] to take care of someone or something
She asked me if I'd mind the children for an hour while she went shopping.
Could you mind my bag for a moment while I go to the toilet?
don't mind me
said to tell someone who is in the same room as you not to pay any attention to
you, because you do not want to interrupt what they are doing
Don't mind me - I'm just sorting out some files here.
I don't mind if I do
said to politely accept an offer of food or drink
"There's plenty more cake if you'd like another piece." "I don't mind if I do."
if you don't mind me saying
used as a polite way to begin a criticism
If you don't mind me saying (so), I think the curry could be a little hotter next
time.
mind (you)
used when you want to make what you have just said sound less strong
He's very untidy about the house; mind you, I'm not much better.
I know I'm lazy - I did go swimming yesterday, mind.
mind your own business ( ABBREVIATION MYOB ) INFORMAL MAINLY HUMOROUS
used to tell someone in a rude way that you do not want them to ask about
something private
"Where have you been?" "Mind your own business!"
mind your p's and q's OLD-FASHIONED
to make an effort to be especially polite in a particular situation
I have to mind my p's and q's when I'm with my grandmother.
mind-altering adjective
describes a drug that has a strong influence on a person's mental state, causing
feelings of extreme happiness and making people consider things in an unusual way
mind-blowing adjective SLANG
extremely exciting or surprising
The special effects in this film are pretty mind-blowing.
mind-boggling adjective INFORMAL
extremely surprising and difficult to understand or imagine
She was paid the mind-boggling sum of ten million pounds for that film.
-minded suffix
having a particular character, interest or way of thinking about things
She's very strong/independent-minded (= She has a very strong/independent
character) .
I don't imagine that he's very politically-minded (= interested in politics) .
minder noun [ C ]
1. someone who protects another person, often a famous person, from danger
and unwanted public attention
The President arrived surrounded by his minders.
2. someone who controls what another person says and does
His public-relations minder refused to allow him to answer any of the journalists'
questions.
mindful adjective FORMAL
careful not to forget about something
Mindful of the poor road conditions, she reduced her speed to 30 mph.
Politicians are increasingly mindful that young voters are turning away from
traditional parties.
mindless adjective DISAPPROVING
1. stupid and meaning nothing
The film is full of mindless violence .
pop songs with mindless lyrics
2. not needing much mental effort
I'm afraid it's fairly mindless work - opening mail and keying data into a
computer.
mindlessly adverb
Some children started mindlessly hurling stones at passing vehicles.
mindlessness noun [ U ]
ˈ mind ˌ map noun [ C ]
a spidergram
mind-blowing adjective SLANG
extremely exciting or surprising
The special effects in this film are pretty mind-blowing.
mind-boggling adjective INFORMAL
extremely surprising and difficult to understand or imagine
She was paid the mind-boggling sum of ten million pounds for that film.
-minded suffix
having a particular character, interest or way of thinking about things
She's very strong/independent-minded (= She has a very strong/independent
character) .
I don't imagine that he's very politically-minded (= interested in politics) .
minder noun [ C ]
1. someone who protects another person, often a famous person, from danger
and unwanted public attention
The President arrived surrounded by his minders.
2. someone who controls what another person says and does
His public-relations minder refused to allow him to answer any of the journalists'
questions.
mindful adjective FORMAL
careful not to forget about something
Mindful of the poor road conditions, she reduced her speed to 30 mph.
Politicians are increasingly mindful that young voters are turning away from
traditional parties.
mindless adjective DISAPPROVING
1. stupid and meaning nothing
The film is full of mindless violence .
pop songs with mindless lyrics
2. not needing much mental effort
I'm afraid it's fairly mindless work - opening mail and keying data into a
computer.
mindlessly adverb
Some children started mindlessly hurling stones at passing vehicles.
mindlessness noun [ U ]
ˈ mind ˌ map noun [ C ]
a spidergram
mind-numbing adjective
extremely boring
a mind-numbing task
mind-numbingly adverb
mind-numbingly boring
ˈ mind ˌ reader noun [ C ] MAINLY HUMOROUS
a person who knows another person's thoughts without being told them
Why didn't you tell me you weren't happy with the situation? - I'm not a mind
reader, you know!
mindset noun [ U ]
a person's way of thinking and their opinions
to have a different/the same mindset
It's extraordinary how hard it is to change the mindset of the public and the
press.
mine pronoun
the one(s) belonging to or connected with me
"Whose bag is this?" "It's mine."
Your son is the same age as mine.
She's an old friend of mine.
mine noun [ C ] HOLE
1. a hole or system of holes in the ground made for the removal of substances
such as coal, metal, and salt by digging
a coal/salt/gold mine
a mine shaft
My grandfather used to work in/ UK down the mines.
mine noun [ C ] BOMB
2. a type of bomb put below the earth or in the sea which explodes when vehicles,
ships or people go over it
He was killed when his tank ran over a mine.
The US forces were clearing the surrounding area of mines.
See also landmine
a mine of information
someone who has a lot of knowledge
mine verb DIG
1. [ I or T ] to dig coal or another substance out of the ground
They're mining for salt.
They mine a lot of copper around these parts.
mine verb BOMB
2. [ T often passive ] to place or hide mines in an area of land or sea
The desert was heavily mined.
mine a rich seam of sth LITERARY
to take advantage of a strong feeling or quality in a particular situation
Polidori, the right-wing politician, is mining a rich seam of fear and prejudice.
mine determiner OLD USE
used in the past instead of 'my' before nouns that begin with a vowel or h
mine eyes
mine host
ˈ mine de ˌ tector noun [ C ]
a device which is used to discover whether there are mines (= bombs) in a
particular area
particular area
minefield noun [ C ] BOMBS
1. an area of land or water which contains mines (= bombs)
minefield noun [ C ] PROBLEMS
2. a situation or subject which is very complicated and full of hidden problems and
dangers
a legal minefield
a minefield of ethical problems
miner noun [ C ]
a person who works in a mine
a coal miner
mineral noun SUBSTANCE
1. [ C ] a valuable or useful chemical substance which is formed naturally in the
ground
2. [ C ] a chemical that your body needs to stay healthy
A healthy diet should supply all necessary vitamins and minerals.
a mineral supplement
mineral noun DRINK
3. minerals
[ plural ] UK OLD-FASHIONED cold sweet fizzy (= with bubbles) drinks without
alcohol
mineral adjective
being or consisting of a mineral or minerals
a mineral deposit (= substance or layer that is left)
The speaker emphasized that much of South Africa's importance lay in its mineral
wealth.
mineralogist noun [ C ]
someone who studies minerals
mineralogy noun [ U ]
the scientific study of minerals
ˈ mineral ˌ oil noun [ U ]
an oil obtained from petroleum
particular area
minefield noun [ C ] BOMBS
1. an area of land or water which contains mines (= bombs)
minefield noun [ C ] PROBLEMS
2. a situation or subject which is very complicated and full of hidden problems and
dangers
a legal minefield
a minefield of ethical problems
miner noun [ C ]
a person who works in a mine
a coal miner
mineral noun SUBSTANCE
1. [ C ] a valuable or useful chemical substance which is formed naturally in the
ground
2. [ C ] a chemical that your body needs to stay healthy
A healthy diet should supply all necessary vitamins and minerals.
a mineral supplement
mineral noun DRINK
3. minerals
[ plural ] UK OLD-FASHIONED cold sweet fizzy (= with bubbles) drinks without
alcohol
mineral adjective
being or consisting of a mineral or minerals
a mineral deposit (= substance or layer that is left)
The speaker emphasized that much of South Africa's importance lay in its mineral
wealth.
mineralogist noun [ C ]
someone who studies minerals
mineralogy noun [ U ]
the scientific study of minerals
ˈ mineral ˌ oil noun [ U ]
an oil obtained from petroleum
ˈ mineral ˌ water noun [ U ] ( US ALSO bottled water )
natural water from underground, containing dissolved minerals which are believed
to be good for your health
still/carbonated mineral water
minestrone (soup) noun [ C or U ]
a type of Italian soup containing a mixture of vegetables and pasta
minesweeper noun [ C ]
a ship that is used to discover if mines (= bombs) are present and to remove
them from the sea
minger noun [ C ] UK SLANG
an ugly person, especially a woman
minging adjective UK SLANG SMELL
1. smelling bad
You're minging, mate! Go and take a shower.
minging adjective UK SLANG UGLY
2. ugly
Man, she was minging!
mingle verb MIX
1. [ I or T ] to mix or combine, or be mixed or combined
The excitement of starting a new job is always mingled with a certain
apprehension.
The two flavours mingle well.
mingle verb BE WITH
2. [ I ] to move around and talk to other people at a social event
You've been talking to Roger all evening - you really ought to be mingling with
the other guests.
mingy adjective INFORMAL
1. not generous and unwilling to give money
I only gave five dollars towards his present - do you think that was a bit mingy?
2. describes an amount that is smaller than you would like
I hate that restaurant - they give you really mingy portions.
mini- prefix
smaller or less important than a normal example of the same thing
There's a mini-library in each classroom, as well as the central library.
We took the kids to play mini-golf.
mini noun [ C ]
a miniskirt
Mini noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a type of small British car especially popular in the 1960s
miniature adjective [ before noun ]
describes something which is a very small copy of an object
I bought some miniature furniture for my niece's dolls' house.
miniature noun [ C ] PAINTING
1. a very small painting, usually of a person
miniature noun [ C ] ALCOHOLIC DRINK
2. a very small bottle of alcoholic drink
miniature noun [ C ]
3. in miniature
smaller than usual
He's made a model of our village, with all the buildings and roads in miniature.
miniaturization , UK USUALLY miniaturisation noun [ U ]
the process of making something very small using modern technology
The silicon chip is a classic example of the benefits of miniaturization.
miniaturized , UK USUALLY miniaturised adjective
a miniaturized electronic circuit
mini-bar noun [ C ]
a small fridge in a hotel bedroom, with drinks inside
mini-break noun [ C ]
a very short holiday
Winners of the competition will win a three-night mini-break in Paris.
minibus noun [ C ]
minibus
a small bus in which there are seats for about ten people
minicab noun [ C ] UK
a taxi which can only be called by telephone and which does not stop to collect
passengers in the street
minicam noun [ C ] MAINLY US
a type of small video camera often used by television news reporters
MiniDisc noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a very small plastic disc on which high-quality sound, especially music, is recorded
minim noun [ C ] UK SPECIALIZED ( US USUALLY half note )
a musical note with a time value equal to two crochets or half a semibreve
See picture music reading
minimal adjective
very small in amount
There were no injuries and damage to the building was minimal.
minimally adverb
minimally affected/involved/successful
minimalist adjective SIMPLE
1. belonging or relating to a style in art, design and theatre that uses the smallest
range of materials and colours possible, and only very simple shapes or forms
minimalist painting
The set for the ballet is minimalist - white walls and a chair.
minimalist adjective NOT DOING MUCH
2. taking or showing as little action and involvement in a situation as possible
the party's minimalist approach to economic policy
minimalism noun [ U ]
minimalist noun [ C ]
an artist or designer who uses a minimalist style
minimize , UK USUALLY minimise verb [ T ]
1. to reduce something to the least possible level or amount
We must minimize the risk of infection.
Environmentalists are doing everything within their power to minimize the impact
of the oil spill.
Opposite maximize
2. to make something seem less important or smaller than it really is
She accused the government of minimizing the suffering of thousands of people.
It's important to focus on your strengths and to minimize your weaknesses.
minimization noun [ U ]
minicam noun [ C ] MAINLY US
a type of small video camera often used by television news reporters
MiniDisc noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a very small plastic disc on which high-quality sound, especially music, is recorded
minim noun [ C ] UK SPECIALIZED ( US USUALLY half note )
a musical note with a time value equal to two crochets or half a semibreve
See picture music reading
minimal adjective
very small in amount
There were no injuries and damage to the building was minimal.
minimally adverb
minimally affected/involved/successful
minimalist adjective SIMPLE
1. belonging or relating to a style in art, design and theatre that uses the smallest
range of materials and colours possible, and only very simple shapes or forms
minimalist painting
The set for the ballet is minimalist - white walls and a chair.
minimalist adjective NOT DOING MUCH
2. taking or showing as little action and involvement in a situation as possible
the party's minimalist approach to economic policy
minimalism noun [ U ]
minimalist noun [ C ]
an artist or designer who uses a minimalist style
minimize , UK USUALLY minimise verb [ T ]
1. to reduce something to the least possible level or amount
We must minimize the risk of infection.
Environmentalists are doing everything within their power to minimize the impact
of the oil spill.
Opposite maximize
2. to make something seem less important or smaller than it really is
She accused the government of minimizing the suffering of thousands of people.
It's important to focus on your strengths and to minimize your weaknesses.
minimization noun [ U ]
minimum noun [ C usually singular ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION min. )
the smallest amount or number allowed or possible
Wage increases are being kept to a minimum because of the recession.
She hoped that her fiftieth birthday would pass with the minimum of fuss.
We need a minimum of ten people to play this game.
Opposite maximum
minimum adjective ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION min. )
describes something that is the smallest or least allowed or possible
This certificate is the minimum qualification required to teach English in most
language schools.
Eighteen is the minimum age for entering most nightclubs.
minimum adverb ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION min. )
at the least
She reckons that you should do three exercise classes a week minimum to get
any of the benefits.
the ˌ minimum ˈ wage noun [ S ]
the smallest amount of money that an employer is legally allowed to pay someone
who works for them
mining noun [ U ]
the industry or activity of removing substances such as coal or metal from the
ground by digging
coal/salt mining
minion noun [ C ] USUALLY DISAPPROVING
a person who only exists in order to do what another person orders them to do
He sent one of his minions to do something about it.
minion noun [ C ] USUALLY DISAPPROVING
a person who only exists in order to do what another person orders them to do
He sent one of his minions to do something about it.
minipill noun [ C ]
a type of pill containing only progesterone which women can take every day to
prevent them from becoming pregnant when they have sex
miniscule adjective
a common spelling of minuscule that is not correct
mini-series noun [ C ]
a programme or play divided into several different parts which is broadcast on
television over a short period of time
miniskirt noun [ C ] ( ALSO mini )
a very short skirt
See picture clothes 4
minister noun [ C ] POLITICIAN
1. a member of the government in Britain and many other countries who is in
charge of a particular department or has an important position in it
the foreign/health minister
the Minister of/for Education
minister noun [ C ] PRIEST
2. a priest in particular parts of the Christian church
a minister at the local Baptist church
minister noun [ C ] COUNTRY'S REPRESENTATIVE
3. SPECIALIZED a person below the rank of ambassador whose job is to represent
his or her country in a foreign country
the Belgian minister in Madrid
minister verb
minister to sb phrasal verb
to give help to or care for people, for example people who are ill
FORMAL The priest ministers to his flock (= the people who go to his church) .
HUMOROUS I spent most of the morning ministering to my sick husband.
ministerial adjective POLITICIAN
1. relating to or involving a minister (= senior member of parliament)
ministerial responsibilities
a high-level ministerial meeting
ministerial adjective COUNTRY'S REPRESENTATIVE
2. relating to or involving a minister (= country's representative abroad)
He reached ministerial level in the Diplomatic Service.
ministerial adjective POLITICIAN
1. relating to or involving a minister (= senior member of parliament)
ministerial responsibilities
a high-level ministerial meeting
ministerial adjective COUNTRY'S REPRESENTATIVE
2. relating to or involving a minister (= country's representative abroad)
He reached ministerial level in the Diplomatic Service.
ministering angel noun [ C ] UK HUMOROUS
a very kind woman who takes care of people who are ill
ministrations plural noun FORMAL
acts of helping or looking after people or providing for the needs of people
In her last difficult years, she relied on the careful ministrations of her beloved
husband.
HUMOROUS That plant seems to be dying in spite of all my ministrations.
ministry noun GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT
1. [ C ] a department of the government led by a minister
the Ministry of Defence/Agriculture
ministry noun PRIEST'S WORK
2. [ U ] work as a minister
He practised a preaching and teaching ministry there for over 40 years.
3. the ministry
the job of being a priest, in some parts of the Christian Church
In 1985 he decided to go into/leave the ministry.
mini-system noun [ C ]
a very small set of electronic equipment for playing recorded sound, usually
including a CD player and a tape deck
minivan noun [ C ] US ( UK ˌ people ˈ carrier )
a large, high car which can carry more people than a normal car
mink noun [ C or U ]
a small animal with valuable fur which is used to make expensive coats, or the fur
from this animal
a mink coat
minnow noun [ C ] FISH
1. a very small fish found in lakes and rivers
minnow noun [ C ] PERSON/ORGANIZATION
2. LITERARY an organization or person that is not important and has little influence
or power
minor adjective UNIMPORTANT
1. having little importance, influence or effect, especially when compared with
other things of the same type
a minor operation
It's only a minor problem .
There's been an increase in minor offences , such as traffic violations and petty
theft.
She suffered only minor injuries .
It requires a few minor adjustments.
a minor poet of the 16th-century
Compare major
minor adjective MUSIC
2. belonging or relating to a type of musical scale that generally has a sad sound,
typically having a half tone between the second and third and between the fifth and
sixth notes, and a whole tone between each of the others
The piece is written in a minor key .
Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor.
Compare major
minor noun [ C ] LEGAL
someone who is too young to have the legal responsibilities of an adult
He was accused of having sex with a minor.
minor adjective UNIMPORTANT
1. having little importance, influence or effect, especially when compared with
other things of the same type
a minor operation
It's only a minor problem .
There's been an increase in minor offences , such as traffic violations and petty
theft.
She suffered only minor injuries .
It requires a few minor adjustments.
a minor poet of the 16th-century
Compare major
minor adjective MUSIC
2. belonging or relating to a type of musical scale that generally has a sad sound,
typically having a half tone between the second and third and between the fifth and
sixth notes, and a whole tone between each of the others
The piece is written in a minor key .
Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor.
Compare major
minor noun [ C ] LEGAL
someone who is too young to have the legal responsibilities of an adult
He was accused of having sex with a minor.
minority noun SMALL PART
1. [ S ] a smaller number or part
It's only a tiny minority of people who are causing the problem.
Children with single parents at my school were very much in the minority (=
there were very few) .
This section of the bookstore caters for minority interests (= subjects that
interest only a few people) .
Opposite majority
minority noun PEOPLE
2. [ C ] any small group in society that is different from the rest because of their
race, religion or political beliefs, or a person who belongs to such a group
ethnic/religious minorities
The plan was designed to help women and minorities overcome discrimination in
the workplace.
be in a minority of one
to be the only person who has your opinion
minster noun [ C ]
used in Britain in the name of a large or important church
York Minster
minstrel noun [ C ]
a travelling musician and singer common between the 11th and 15th centuries
a wandering minstrel
mint noun PLANT
1. [ U ] a herb whose leaves have a strong fresh smell and taste and are used for
giving flavour to food
a sprig of mint
mint-flavoured gum/toothpaste
2. [ C ] a sweet with a mint flavour
a packet of extra-strong mints
after-dinner chocolate mints
mint noun MONEY
3. [ C ] a place where the new coins of a country are made
4. [ S ] INFORMAL an extremely large amount of money
If his books sell in the States, he'll make a mint.
mint adjective [ before noun ]
1. describes stamps and coins, etc. which have not been used
A collector would pay $500 for a mint copy.
2. in mint condition
perfect, as if new
CD player, in mint condition - £50.
mint verb [ T ] COIN
1. to produce a coin for the government
mint verb [ T ] STH NEW
2. to produce something new, especially to invent a new phrase or word
a freshly minted slogan/phrase
newly minted college graduates
ˌ mint ˈ julep noun [ C or U ] MAINLY US
an alcoholic drink containing whisky, crushed ice, sugar and pieces of mint
ˌ mint ˈ julep noun [ C or U ] MAINLY US
an alcoholic drink containing whisky, crushed ice, sugar and pieces of mint
ˌ mint ˈ sauce noun [ U ] MAINLY UK ( US USUALLY mint jelly )
a sauce which is often served with lamb , made of vinegar, sugar and mint cut
into very small pieces
minus preposition
1. reduced by a stated number
What is 57 minus 39?
That will be £1500, minus the deposit of £150 that you have already paid.
Compare plus
2. INFORMAL without; lacking
We're minus a chair for Ian - could you get one from the other room?
minus noun [ C ] DISADVANTAGE
1. a disadvantage or a bad feature
Having to travel such a long way to work is a definite minus.
minus noun [ C ] SUBTRACTION
2. ( ALSO minus sign ) the - sign, written between two numbers to show that the
second number should be subtracted from the first, or in front of one number to show
that it has a value of less than 0
minus adjective SUBTRACTION
1. [ before noun ] A minus number or amount is less than zero.
See also negative
2. [ before noun ] used to show that temperatures are less than zero
Temperatures could fall to minus eight tonight.
3. [ after noun ] used after a mark given to written work to mean that it is of a
slightly lower standard than that mark
I got A minus for my English homework.
minus adjective DISADVANTAGE
4. [ before noun ] describes a disadvantage or bad point
One of the minus points of working at home is not having social contact with
colleagues.
minuscule adjective
extremely small
All she gave him to eat was two minuscule pieces of toast.
minuscule adjective
extremely small
All she gave him to eat was two minuscule pieces of toast.
minute noun TIME
1. [ C ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION min. ) any of the 60 parts which an hour is divided
into, consisting of 60 seconds
a twenty-minute bus ride
It takes me twenty minutes to get to work.
The train leaves at three minutes to eight, so we'd better get there a few minutes
before then.
2. [ C ] used in spoken English to mean a very short time
Hang on/Wait a minute - I'll just get my bag.
Just a minute - I'll be with you when I've finished this.
I won't be a minute (= I will be ready soon) .
When you've got a minute, I'd like a brief word with you.
minute noun MESSAGE
3. [ C ] MAINLY UK FORMAL an official message from one person to another in an
organization
I've just received a minute from Jeremy authorizing the purchase of six more
computers.
4. the minutes
[ plural ] the written record of what was said at a meeting
Could you take/do (= write) the minutes, Daniel?
The minutes of the last meeting were approved unanimously (= everyone agreed
that they were correct) .
minute noun ANGLE
5. [ C ] SPECIALIZED any of the 60 parts that the degrees of any angle are divided
into
the minute (that)
at the exact or first moment when
The minute I saw him, I knew something was wrong.
not for a minute
certainly not
I'm not suggesting for a minute that she meant to cause any trouble.
this minute
now or a very short time ago
It doesn't have to be done this minute, but at some point this week please.
She's just this minute left the office.
up-to-the-minute
1. modern
up-to-the-minute fashion
2. containing all the most recent information
up-to-the-minute news
minute verb [ T ]
to make a written record of what is said at a meeting
The chairman is minuted as having said that profits had fallen to an all-time low.
minute adjective
extremely small
a minute amount/quantity
I've never seen a man with such tiny hands - they're minute!
The documentary showed an eye operation in minute detail (= showing every
small detail) .
minute adjective
extremely small
a minute amount/quantity
I've never seen a man with such tiny hands - they're minute!
The documentary showed an eye operation in minute detail (= showing every
small detail) .
ˈ minute ˌ hand noun [ C usually singular ]
the part on a clock or watch which points to the minutes and is longer than the
hour hand and thicker than the second hand
minutely adverb
very carefully, or looking at every small detail
to examine something minutely
ˈ minute ˌ steak noun [ C or U ]
a thin slice of steak (= a type of meat especially from cows) that can be cooked
very quickly
the minutiae plural noun
small and often not important details
The committee studied the minutiae of the report for hours.
Comedy is so often based on the minutiae of everyday life.
minx noun [ C ] SLIGHTLY OLD-FASHIONED USUALLY HUMOROUS
a girl or young woman who knows how to control other people to her advantage
miracle noun [ C ]
an unusual and mysterious event that is thought to have been caused by a god,
or any very surprising and unexpected event
[ + ( that ) ] Looking at the state of his car, it's a miracle (that) he wasn't killed!
I can't promise a miracle cure , but I think we can improve things.
perform/work miracles/a miracle INFORMAL
to be extremely effective in improving a situation
You've performed a miracle on this kitchen - I've never seen it so clean!
miraculous adjective
very effective or surprising or difficult to believe
The diet promised miraculous weight-loss.
Well, you've made a miraculous recovery since last night!
miraculously adverb
mirage noun [ C ]
1. an image, produced by very hot air, of something which seems to be far away
but does not really exist
2. LITERARY a hope or wish that has no chance of being achieved
Electoral victory is just a distant mirage.
mirage noun [ C ]
1. an image, produced by very hot air, of something which seems to be far away
but does not really exist
2. LITERARY a hope or wish that has no chance of being achieved
Electoral victory is just a distant mirage.
mire noun WET EARTH
1. [ C usually singular ] an area of deep wet sticky earth
mire noun BAD SITUATION
2. [ S ] LITERARY an unpleasant situation which is difficult to escape
We must not be drawn into the mire of civil war.
miry adjective
mired adjective
be/become mired (down) in something
to be involved in a difficult situation, especially for a long period of time
The peace talks are mired in bureaucracy.
mirror noun GLASS
1. [ C ] a piece of glass with a shiny metallic back which reflects light, producing
an image of whatever is in front of it
the bathroom mirror
She was looking at her reflection in the mirror.
mirror noun REPRESENT
2. be a mirror of sth
to be an honest representation of something
The movie is a mirror of daily life in wartime Britain.
mirror verb [ T ]
1. to represent something honestly
Our newspaper aims to mirror the opinions of ordinary people.
2. to be very similar to something
Her on-screen romances seem to mirror her experiences in her private life.
ˌ mirror ˈ image noun [ C ]
1. something that looks exactly the same as another thing but with its left and
right sides in opposite positions
His home is two terraced houses knocked together, each the mirror image of the
other.
2. a person or object that is very similar to another
The current economic situation is a mirror image of the situation in France a few
years ago.
mirth noun [ U ] LITERARY
laughter, humour or happiness
Her impersonations of our teachers were a source of considerable mirth.
mirth noun [ U ] LITERARY
laughter, humour or happiness
Her impersonations of our teachers were a source of considerable mirth.
mirthless adjective LITERARY
not showing real enjoyment or happiness
a mirthless laugh /smile
mirthlessly adverb
mis- prefix
added to the beginning of a verb or word formed from a verb, to show that the
action referred to by the verb has been done wrongly or badly
I never said that! You must have misheard me.
His misbehaviour eventually led to him being expelled from school.
misaddress verb [ T ]
to put the wrong address on a letter or parcel
We have now corrected the error in our computer records which resulted in our
letters to you being misaddressed.
misadventure noun [ C ] LITERARY
1. an accident or bad luck
2. death by misadventure UK LEGAL
the official term used in court for an death that happens by accident
The coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
misalign verb [ T ]
to arrange parts of a machine or system badly, with the result that they do not
work well together
If the wheels are misaligned, it can cause excessive wear on your tyres.
misalignment noun [ U ]
misandry , noun [ U ]
hatred of men
Compare misogyny
misandrist noun [ C ]
Being a feminist doesn't necessarily make you a misandrist.
misanthrope noun [ C ] ( ALSO misanthropist )
someone who dislikes other people and avoids involvement with society
misanthrope noun [ C ] ( ALSO misanthropist )
someone who dislikes other people and avoids involvement with society
misanthropic adjective
not liking other people
misanthropy noun [ U ]
misapply verb [ T ]
to use something badly, wrongly or in a way that was not intended
It will be impossible to recover all the misapplied charity money.
misapplication noun [ C or U ]
The inquiry found evidence of serious misapplication of funds.
misapprehension noun [ C or U ]
a failure to understand something, or an understanding or belief about something
that is not correct
[ + that ] Most industrialists labour under a misapprehension (= wrongly
believe) that unrestrained economic growth can be achieved without damaging the
environment.
misappropriate verb [ T ] FORMAL
to steal something that you have been trusted to take care of and use it for your
own good
He is accused of misappropriating $30 000 to pay off gambling debts.
misappropriation noun [ U ]
He was charged with forgery, embezzlement and misappropriation of union funds.
misbegotten adjective BADLY PLANNED
1. FORMAL badly or stupidly planned or designed
a misbegotten belief/idea
misbegotten social and economic policies
misbegotten adjective NOT RESPECTED
2. [ before noun ] OLD-FASHIONED FORMAL not deserving to be respected or thought
valuable
Her misbegotten father spent most of his adult life in prison.
misbehave verb [ I ] PERSON
1. to behave badly
I was always getting in trouble for misbehaving at school.
misbehave verb [ I ] MACHINE
2. If machines misbehave, they do not operate as they should
If computer circuits are allowed to overheat they will misbehave .
misbehaviour UK , US misbehavior noun [ U ]
The school expelled him for persistent misbehaviour.
misbehave verb [ I ] PERSON
1. to behave badly
I was always getting in trouble for misbehaving at school.
misbehave verb [ I ] MACHINE
2. If machines misbehave, they do not operate as they should
If computer circuits are allowed to overheat they will misbehave .
misbehaviour UK , US misbehavior noun [ U ]
The school expelled him for persistent misbehaviour.
misc
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR miscellaneous
miscalculate verb [ I or T ]
1. to calculate an amount wrongly
[ + question word ] We had a lot of food left over from the party because I'd
miscalculated how much people would eat.
2. to judge a situation badly
He miscalculated badly when he underestimated the response of the international
community to the invasion.
miscalculation noun [ C or U ]
The project went over budget because of a miscalculation at the planning stage.
The conspirators' plot failed because they made two fatal miscalculations.
miscarriage noun [ C or U ]
an early unintentional end to a pregnancy when the baby is born too early and
dies because it has not developed enough
The amniocentesis test carries a significant risk of miscarriage.
I had two miscarriages before I gave birth to my daughter.
Compare abortion ; stillbirth
miscarry verb [ I ]
Sadly, she miscarried eight weeks into the pregnancy.
mis ˌ carriage of ˈ justice noun [ C ]
a situation in which someone is punished by the law courts for a crime that they
have not committed
Many people oppose the death penalty because of the possibility of miscarriages
of justice.
miscast verb [ T ]
to choose someone who is unsuitable to act in a film or play
Tom Hanks was miscast as the arrogant city high-flier.
miscellaneous adjective
consisting of a mixture of various things which are not usually connected with
each other
miscellaneous household items
miscellaneous adjective
consisting of a mixture of various things which are not usually connected with
each other
miscellaneous household items
miscellany noun [ S ] MIXTURE
1. a mixture of different things
The museum houses a fascinating miscellany of nautical treasures.
miscellany noun [ S ] BOOK
2. a book containing a collection of pieces of writing either by different writers or
by one writer on different subjects
She's just finished editing "A Miscellany of English Cookery".
mischance noun [ C or U ] FORMAL
bad luck or an unlucky event
By an unfortunate mischance, the hospital had been built immediately beside a
large ammunition dump.
mischief noun
1. [ U ] behaviour, especially a child's, which is slightly bad but is not intended to
cause serious harm or damage
He needs a hobby to keep him busy and stop him from getting into mischief.
Perhaps a new bike would keep him out of mischief.
I hope you haven't been up to any mischief while I was away.
2. [ C ] a mischievous child
3. [ U ] INFORMAL damage or harm
criminal mischief
do sb/yourself a mischief UK INFORMAL
to hurt someone or yourself
You'll do yourself a mischief if you're not careful with that knife.
make mischief OLD-FASHIONED
to say something which causes other people to be upset or annoyed with each
other
My children often try to make mischief between me and my new husband.
mischief-making noun [ U ]
the activity of intentionally causing problems for people
He accused Mr James of mischief-making by raising allegations against Mr Aitken.
mischievous adjective
1. behaving in a way, or describing behaviour, which is slightly bad but is not
intended to cause serious harm or damage
She has a mischievous sense of humour.
a book about the mischievous antics of his ten-year-old daughter
2. expressing or suggesting mischief
a mischievous grin
3. describes behaviour or words that are intended to cause harm or trouble
I think these rumours are mischievous.
mischievously adverb
to grin mischievously
mischievousness noun [ U ]
mischievous adjective
1. behaving in a way, or describing behaviour, which is slightly bad but is not
intended to cause serious harm or damage
She has a mischievous sense of humour.
a book about the mischievous antics of his ten-year-old daughter
2. expressing or suggesting mischief
a mischievous grin
3. describes behaviour or words that are intended to cause harm or trouble
I think these rumours are mischievous.
mischievously adverb
to grin mischievously
mischievousness noun [ U ]
miscible adjective SPECIALIZED
A miscible liquid can be mixed with another liquid without separating from it.
Alcohol is miscible with/in water.
Compare immiscible
miscommunication noun [ C or U ]
failure to communicate ideas or intentions successfully
A spokeswoman blamed the confusion on miscommunication between the
company and its customers.
misconceived adjective
badly planned because of a failure to understand a situation and therefore
unsuitable or unlikely to succeed
The plan to build the road through the forest is wholly misconceived.
misconception noun [ C ]
an idea which is wrong because it has been based on a failure to understand a
situation
We hope our work will help to change popular misconceptions about disabled
people.
[ + that ] I'd like to clear up the common misconception that American society is
based on money.
misconduct noun [ U ] BEHAVIOUR
1. unacceptable or bad behaviour by someone in a position of authority or
responsibility
The psychiatrist was found guilty of gross (= unacceptable) professional
misconduct.
The former priest denied allegations of sexual misconduct.
misconduct noun [ U ] BAD MANAGEMENT
2. when the activities of an organisation are badly managed
financial misconduct
misconduct verb [ T ]
to manage the activities of an organization badly
The aid programme was misconducted, resulting in large quantities of food failing
to reach the famine victims.
misconstrue verb [ T ] FORMAL
to form a false understanding of the meaning or intention of something that
someone does or says
She said Harris had misconstrued her comments.
Their caution was misconstrued as cowardice.
misconstrue verb [ T ] FORMAL
to form a false understanding of the meaning or intention of something that
someone does or says
She said Harris had misconstrued her comments.
Their caution was misconstrued as cowardice.
miscount verb [ I or T ]
to reach a total, when counting, which is not correct
I thought we had enough plates for the party, but perhaps I miscounted.
miscount noun [ C ]
miscreant noun [ C ] FORMAL
someone who behaves badly or does not obey rules
We need tougher penalties to discourage miscreants.
misdeed noun [ C ] FORMAL
an act that is criminal or bad
She's been making up for her past misdeeds by doing a lot of voluntary work.
misdemeanor noun [ C ] US LEGAL
a crime considered to be one of the less serious types of crime
misdemeanour UK , US misdemeanor noun [ C ]
an action which is slightly bad or breaks a rule but is not a crime
sexual/youthful misdemeanours
Every week, as children, we were beaten for some minor misdemeanour.
misdirect verb [ T ]
1. to send something to the wrong place or aim something in the wrong direction
My luggage was misdirected to a different airport.
Vilas misdirected the shot, and the ball went over the net.
2. to use something in a way which is not suitable or right
The report accuses the charity of misdirecting large quantities of aid.
3. to be wrong in how you feel or act in a situation
The public's admiration is misdirected, as he has done nothing to deserve it.
misdirection noun [ U ]
the misdirection of financial resources
miser noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
someone who has a strong wish to have money and hates to spend it
miser noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
someone who has a strong wish to have money and hates to spend it
miserable adjective UNHAPPY
1. very unhappy
She's miserable living on her own.
2. unpleasant and causing unhappiness
miserable weather
What a miserable existence! How could anyone live in such dreadful conditions.
miserable adjective LOW VALUE
3. [ before noun ] having little value or quality
INFORMAL She only offered me a miserable £20 for my old computer.
SLANG Some miserable bastard went and vandalised my car.
miserably adverb UNHAPPY
1. causing or showing unhappiness
"I'm so unhappy," sobbed Chris, miserably.
It's been miserably wet (= raining a lot) all week.
miserably adverb LOW VALUE
2. having little value, in a way that is disappointing
to fail miserably (= completely fail)
miserably low wages
miserly adjective DISAPPROVING PERSON
1. like or typical of a miser
a miserly person
miserly adjective DISAPPROVING AMOUNT
2. describes an amount that is extremely small
a miserly 75p a week rise in the state pension
miserliness noun [ U ]
misery noun UNHAPPY FEELING
1. [ C or U ] great unhappiness
We have witnessed the most appalling scenes of human misery.
Ten years of marriage to him have made her life a misery.
misery noun UNHAPPY PERSON
2. [ S ] UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING ( ALSO misery guts ) someone who is often very
unhappy and is always complaining about things
Oh come on, don't be such a misery!
Stop being such an old misery guts!
put sth out of its misery
to kill an animal because it is in great pain, so that it does not have to suffer any
more
put sb out of their misery INFORMAL
to stop someone worrying, usually by giving them information that they have
been waiting for
We try to put our students out of their misery and give them their exam results as
early as possible.
misfire verb [ I ] GUN
1. If a gun misfires, the bullet fails to come out.
misfire verb [ I ] ENGINE
2. When an engine misfires, the fuel inside it starts to burn at the wrong moment
There was a loud bang, like the sound of an engine misfiring.
misfire verb [ I ] PLAN
3. If a plan misfires, it does not have the result that was intended
The boy's death was the result of a practical joke that misfired.
misfire verb [ I ] GUN
1. If a gun misfires, the bullet fails to come out.
misfire verb [ I ] ENGINE
2. When an engine misfires, the fuel inside it starts to burn at the wrong moment
There was a loud bang, like the sound of an engine misfiring.
misfire verb [ I ] PLAN
3. If a plan misfires, it does not have the result that was intended
The boy's death was the result of a practical joke that misfired.
misfit noun [ C ]
someone who is not suited to a situation or who is not accepted by other people
because their behaviour is strange or unusual
I didn't really know anyone at the party, so I felt a bit of a misfit.
I was a bit of a social misfit at college because I didn't like going out in the
evenings.
misfortune noun [ C or U ]
bad luck, or an unlucky event
[ + to infinitive ] That was the worst film I've ever had the misfortune to see.
She's suffered a good deal of misfortune over the years.
It's unfair to take advantage of other people's misfortunes.
misgiving noun [ C or U ]
a feeling of doubt or worry about a future event
Many teachers expressed serious misgivings about the new exams.
My only misgiving is that we might not have enough time to do the job properly.
misgovern verb [ T ]
to govern a country badly
misgovernment noun [ U ]
A decade of misgovernment has bankrupted the country.
misguided adjective
unreasonable or unsuitable because of being based on bad judgment or on wrong
information or beliefs
He was shot as he made a misguided attempt to stop the robbers single-handed.
The company blamed its disappointing performance on a misguided business plan.
misguidedly adverb
mishandle verb [ T ]
to deal with something without the necessary care or skill
The police were accused of mishandling the investigation.
mishandling noun [ U ]
Who do you blame for the mishandling of the economy?
mishandle verb [ T ]
to deal with something without the necessary care or skill
The police were accused of mishandling the investigation.
mishandling noun [ U ]
Who do you blame for the mishandling of the economy?
mishap noun [ C or U ]
bad luck, or an unlucky event or accident
The parade was very well organised and passed without mishap.
A series of mishaps led to the nuclear power plant blowing up.
mishear verb [ I or T ]
to fail to hear someone's words correctly or in the way that was intended and to
think that something different was said
I'm sure I never said that! You must have misheard (me).
mishmash noun [ S ]
a badly organized mixture
The new housing development is a mishmash of different architectural styles.
misinform verb [ T ]
to tell someone information that is not correct
I was told she would be at the meeting, but clearly I was misinformed.
misinformation noun [ U ]
1. when people are misinformed
There's a lot of misinformation about AIDS that needs to be corrected.
2. information intended to deceive
His election campaign was based on misinformation about the rival candidates.
misinterpret verb [ T ]
to form an understanding that is not correct of something that is said or done
My speech has been misinterpreted by the press.
When we re-examined the regulations, we realised that we had misinterpreted
them.
misinterpretation noun [ C or U ]
The minister's statement is unclear and open to misinterpretation (= could easily
be misinterpreted) .
misjudge verb [ T ]
1. to form an opinion or idea about someone or something which is unfair or
wrong
I thought he wasn't going to support me, but I misjudged him.
Sophie totally misjudged the situation and behaved quite inappropriately.
2. to guess an amount or distance wrongly
misjudgment , misjudgement noun [ C or U ]
Their decision to sell the house was a disastrous misjudgement.
misjudge verb [ T ]
1. to form an opinion or idea about someone or something which is unfair or
wrong
I thought he wasn't going to support me, but I misjudged him.
Sophie totally misjudged the situation and behaved quite inappropriately.
2. to guess an amount or distance wrongly
misjudgment , misjudgement noun [ C or U ]
Their decision to sell the house was a disastrous misjudgement.
mislay verb [ T ]
to lose something temporarily by forgetting where you have put it
Could I borrow a pen? I seem to have mislaid mine.
mislead verb [ T ]
to cause someone to believe something that is not true
He has admitted misleading the police about his movements on the night of the
murder.
misleading adjective
causing someone to believe something that is not true
misleading information/statements
Adverts must not create a misleading impression .
misleadingly adverb
A large sign misleadingly states: 'Escalator Works'.
mismanage verb [ T ]
to organize or control something badly
The restaurant was hopelessly mismanaged by a former rock musician with no
business experience.
mismanagement noun [ U ]
mismanagement of the economy/economic mismanagement
allegations of fraud and mismanagement
mismatch verb [ T ]
to put together people or things that are unsuitable for each other
I always thought Chris and Monique were mismatched, so I wasn't surprised when
they got divorced.
mismatch noun [ C ]
when people or things are put together that are not suitable for each other
There is a mismatch between the capacity of the airport and the large number of
people wanting to fly from it.
misnomer noun [ C ]
a name that does not suit what it refers to, or the use of such a name
It was the scruffiest place I've ever stayed in, so 'Hotel Royal' was a bit of a
misnomer.
It's something of a misnomer to refer to these inexperienced boys as soldiers.
misnomer noun [ C ]
misnomer.
miso noun [ U ]
a thick substance made from soya beans and salt, used in Japanese cooking
misogynist noun [ C ]
a man who hates women or believes that men are much better than women
misogynist adjective ( ALSO misogynistic )
showing a hatred towards women or a belief that men are much better than
women
She left the Church because of its misogynist teachings on women and their
position in society.
a misogynistic attitude/writer
misogyny noun [ U ]
the hatred of women
misplace verb [ T ]
She misplaced her keys so often that her secretary used to carry spare ones for
her.
misplaced adjective
directed towards someone or something wrongly or in a way that does not show
good judgment
misplaced loyalty/trust
I'm afraid your confidence in my abilities is misplaced.
misprint noun [ C ]
a mistake, such as a word that is spelled wrong, in a printed text
We can't publish the newsletter like this - it's full of misprints.
mispronounce verb [ T ]
to pronounce a word or sound wrongly
French learners of English often mispronounce "ch" as "sh".
mispronunciation noun [ C or U ]
Mispronunciation can be a serious obstacle to making yourself understood in a
foreign language.
misquote verb [ T ]
to repeat something someone has said in a way that is not accurate
Her promise was deliberately misquoted by her opponents, who then used it
against her.
I never said that at all - the press misquoted me.
misquotation noun [ C or U ]
That was a deliberate misquotation of what I said.
misnomer noun [ C ]
misnomer.
miso noun [ U ]
a thick substance made from soya beans and salt, used in Japanese cooking
misogynist noun [ C ]
a man who hates women or believes that men are much better than women
misogynist adjective ( ALSO misogynistic )
showing a hatred towards women or a belief that men are much better than
women
She left the Church because of its misogynist teachings on women and their
position in society.
a misogynistic attitude/writer
misogyny noun [ U ]
the hatred of women
misplace verb [ T ]
She misplaced her keys so often that her secretary used to carry spare ones for
her.
misplaced adjective
directed towards someone or something wrongly or in a way that does not show
good judgment
misplaced loyalty/trust
I'm afraid your confidence in my abilities is misplaced.
misprint noun [ C ]
a mistake, such as a word that is spelled wrong, in a printed text
We can't publish the newsletter like this - it's full of misprints.
mispronounce verb [ T ]
to pronounce a word or sound wrongly
French learners of English often mispronounce "ch" as "sh".
mispronunciation noun [ C or U ]
Mispronunciation can be a serious obstacle to making yourself understood in a
foreign language.
misquote verb [ T ]
to repeat something someone has said in a way that is not accurate
Her promise was deliberately misquoted by her opponents, who then used it
against her.
I never said that at all - the press misquoted me.
misquotation noun [ C or U ]
That was a deliberate misquotation of what I said.
misread verb [ T ] READ WRONGLY
1. to make a mistake in the way that you read something
I was given the wrong tablets when the chemist misread my prescription.
misread verb [ T ] JUDGE WRONGLY
2. to judge a situation wrongly
I thought he fancied me, but I'd completely misread the signals.
misreading noun [ C ]
His misreading of the situation could have serious consequences.
misreport verb [ T ]
to make known information that is not completely true or correct
The magazine misreported its sales figures in order to boost advertising revenue.
misrepresent verb [ T ]
to describe falsely an idea, opinion or situation or the opinions of someone, often
in order to get an advantage
She accused her opponents of deliberately misrepresenting her as an extremist.
I've grown used to my views being misrepresented in the press.
misrepresent verb [ T ]
to describe falsely an idea, opinion or situation or the opinions of someone, often
in order to get an advantage
She accused her opponents of deliberately misrepresenting her as an extremist.
I've grown used to my views being misrepresented in the press.
misrepresentation noun [ C or U ]
something which misrepresents an idea, situation or opinion or when something is
misrepresented
The documentary was a misrepresentation of the truth and bore little
resemblance to actual events.
The MP laughed off the remarks as media misrepresentation.
misrule noun [ U ]
bad government that shows no justice or fairness
She blames her country's economic collapse on forty years of communist misrule.
miss verb NOT DO
1. [ T ] to fail to do or experience something, often something planned or
expected, or to avoid doing or experiencing something
I missed the start of the exam because my bus was late.
Often I miss (= do not eat) breakfast and have an early lunch instead.
You should leave early if you want to miss the rush hour.
[ + -ing verb ] I only just missed be ing run over by a bus this morning.
2. [ T ] to arrive too late to get on a bus, train or aircraft
You'll miss your train if you don't hurry up.
3. [ T ] to not go to something
You'll fall behind in your studies if you keep missing school.
I'm trying to find an excuse for missing the office party.
4. [ T ] to not see or hear something or someone
I missed the beginning of the film.
Her latest movie is too good to miss (= It certainly should be seen) .
I was sorry I missed you at Pat's party - I must have arrived after you left.
5. [ T ] to not notice someone or something
You don't miss much, do you? Nobody else noticed that mistake.
My office is first on the right with a bright red door. You can't miss it (= It is very
easy to find) .
miss verb FEEL SAD
6. [ T ] to feel sad that a person or thing is not present
I really missed her when she went away.
She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
I still miss my old car.
What did you miss most about England when you were living in France?
[ + -ing verb ] I haven't missed smok ing like I'd expected to.
miss verb NOT HIT
7. [ I or T ] to fail to hit something or to avoid hitting something
The bullet missed his heart by a couple of centimetres.
I swerved to avoid the other car and only just missed a tree.
He threw a book at me, but he/it missed.
miss verb NOTICE
8. [ T ] to notice that something is lost or absent
He didn't miss his wallet until the waiter brought the bill.
miss a chance/opportunity
to not use an opportunity to do something
She missed the chance of promotion when she turned down the job of assistant
manager.
miss the boat
to lose an opportunity to do something by being slow to act
There were tickets available last week, but he missed the boat by waiting till
today to try to buy some.
miss the mark
to fail to achieve the result that was intended
Her speech missed the mark and failed to generate the public support she had
been hoping for.
miss the point
to not understand something correctly or what is important about it
What you say is true, but you've missed the point of my argument.
not miss a trick
said about someone who never fails to notice and take advantage of a good
opportunity
Jonathan doesn't miss a trick! If there's a bargain to be had at the market, he'll
find it.
not miss much INFORMAL
said when something you failed to see or experience was not important or special
"I didn't manage to see that programme." "Don't worry, you didn't miss much."
miss sb/sth out phrasal verb [ M ] UK
to fail to include someone or something that should be included
You've missed out your address on the form.
Oh I'm sorry, Tina, I've missed you out. What would you like to drink?
miss out phrasal verb
to fail to use an opportunity to enjoy or get an advantage from something
Don't miss out on the fantastic bargains in our summer sale.
We didn't have a TV at home when I was young, and I felt as though I missed
out.
miss noun NOT DO
1. give sth a miss UK INFORMAL
to avoid or not do something
We usually go to France in the summer, but we've decided to give it a miss this
year.
The restaurant's very good for fish, but I'd give their vegetarian options a miss.
miss noun NOT HIT
2. [ C ] when something or someone fails to hit something or avoids hitting
something
Well done! You scored eight hits and only two misses.
See also near miss
miss noun GIRL
3. UK OLD-FASHIONED a girl or young woman, especially one who behaves rudely or
shows no respect
You're a cheeky little miss! Apologize at once.
Miss noun
1. a title or form of address for a girl or a woman who has never been married
Dr White will see you now, Miss Carter.
Miss Helena Lewis
Compare Ms ; Mrs
2. OLD-FASHIONED used as a form of address for a girl or young woman who does
not appear to be married
Excuse me, Miss, could you tell me the way to the station?
3. MAINLY UK sometimes used by children to address teachers who are women
Can I go to the toilet, Miss?
4. When a woman wins a beauty competition, she is often given the title Miss and
the name of the place that she represents
Miss India/UK
the Miss World contest
Miss noun
Miss Helena Lewis
Compare Ms ; Mrs
Miss India/UK
misshapen , adjective
having an unusual shape or a shape which is not natural
The drug caused some babies to be born with misshapen limbs.
missile noun [ C ]
1. a flying weapon which has its own engine so that it can travel a long distance
before exploding at the place that it has been aimed at
a missile launcher
Missile attacks on the capital resumed at dawn.
2. FORMAL any object that is thrown with the intention of causing injury or damage
Stones, bottles and other missiles were thrown at the police.
missing adjective
1. Someone who is missing has disappeared
Her father has been missing since September 1992.
UK The girl went missing during a family outing to Mount Snowdon.
2. describes something that cannot be found because it is not where it should be
The burglars have been arrested but the jewellery is still missing.
When did you realise that the money was missing from your account?
3. describes soldiers or military vehicles that have not returned from fighting in a
war but are not known completely certainly to be dead or destroyed
He was listed as missing in action .
ˌ missing ˈ link noun [ S ]
1. something that is necessary to complete a series or solve a problem
Those documents provided the missing link, and the police were able to make an
arrest soon after they discovered them.
2. the missing link
an animal which no longer exists or might never have existed and is thought to
explain how humans developed from animals similar to monkeys
ˌ missing ˈ person noun [ C ]
someone who has disappeared and is no longer in communication with their
family and friends
They reported his disappearance to the missing persons bureau.
Miss noun
Miss Helena Lewis
Compare Ms ; Mrs
Miss India/UK
misshapen , adjective
having an unusual shape or a shape which is not natural
The drug caused some babies to be born with misshapen limbs.
missile noun [ C ]
1. a flying weapon which has its own engine so that it can travel a long distance
before exploding at the place that it has been aimed at
a missile launcher
Missile attacks on the capital resumed at dawn.
2. FORMAL any object that is thrown with the intention of causing injury or damage
Stones, bottles and other missiles were thrown at the police.
missing adjective
1. Someone who is missing has disappeared
Her father has been missing since September 1992.
UK The girl went missing during a family outing to Mount Snowdon.
2. describes something that cannot be found because it is not where it should be
The burglars have been arrested but the jewellery is still missing.
When did you realise that the money was missing from your account?
3. describes soldiers or military vehicles that have not returned from fighting in a
war but are not known completely certainly to be dead or destroyed
He was listed as missing in action .
ˌ missing ˈ link noun [ S ]
1. something that is necessary to complete a series or solve a problem
Those documents provided the missing link, and the police were able to make an
arrest soon after they discovered them.
2. the missing link
an animal which no longer exists or might never have existed and is thought to
explain how humans developed from animals similar to monkeys
ˌ missing ˈ person noun [ C ]
someone who has disappeared and is no longer in communication with their
family and friends
They reported his disappearance to the missing persons bureau.
mission noun JOB
1. [ C ] an important job, especially a military one, that someone is sent
somewhere to do
Your mission is to isolate the enemy by destroying all the bridges across the river.
a peace/rescue/fact-finding mission
2. [ C ] any work that someone believes it is their duty to do
My mission in life is to educate the rich about the suffering of the poor.
She's a woman with a mission and she's absolutely determined to finish the
project.
3. mission accomplished
something that you say when you have finished doing something that you were
told to do
Mission accomplished. I've got everything you asked for on the list.
mission noun PEOPLE
4. [ C + singular or plural verb ] a group of people whose job is to increase what
is known about their country, organization or religion in another country or area, or the
place where such people are based
More funds are needed to establish trade missions in eastern Europe.
The Methodist mission is situated in one of the poorest parts of the city.
missionary noun [ C ]
a person who has been sent to a foreign country to teach their religion to the
people who live there
He did missionary work for the Presbyterian Church in Alaska.
missionary noun [ C ]
a person who has been sent to a foreign country to teach their religion to the
people who live there
He did missionary work for the Presbyterian Church in Alaska.
ˈ missionary po ˌ sition noun [ S ]
a position for having sex in which a woman lies on her back and her partner is
above and facing her
ˌ missionary ˈ zeal noun [ U ]
extreme enthusiasm
ˌ mission con ˈ trol noun [ U ]
the place on Earth from which a journey into space is controlled
For a few tense minutes, the astronauts lost radio contact with mission control.
ˈ mission ˌ creep noun [ U ]
DISAPPROVING doing a much larger job for a longer time than was originally
expected, especially in a military operation
ˈ mission ˌ statement noun [ C ]
a short written description of the aims of a business, charity , government
department or public organization
missive noun [ C ]
an official, formal or long letter
She sent a ten-page missive to the council, detailing her objections.
misspell verb [ T ] UK
to fail to spell a word correctly
misspelling noun [ C or U ]
This essay is full of misspellings.
misspend verb [ T ]
to use time or money in a manner that is wasteful or unwise
We must stop public money being misspent in this way.
Being a good pool player is usually a sign of a misspent youth .
misstate verb [ T ] MAINLY US FORMAL
to express a fact that is not correct
Yesterday's obituary of Randall M. Klose misstated the date of his death.
misstatement noun [ C or U ]
misstate verb [ T ] MAINLY US FORMAL
to express a fact that is not correct
Yesterday's obituary of Randall M. Klose misstated the date of his death.
misstatement noun [ C or U ]
missus noun [ S ] INFORMAL
wife
Me and the missus (= my wife) are going to our daughter's for Christmas.
Have you met Jack's new missus?
mist noun [ C or U ]
1. thin fog produced by very small drops of water collecting in the air just above
an area of ground or water
The mountain villages seem to be permanently shrouded in mist.
The early-morning mist soon lifted/cleared .
2. a thin layer of liquid on the surface of something which makes it difficult to see
UK There's always a mist on the bathroom mirror/windows when I've had a
shower.
Through a mist of tears, I watched his train pull out of the station.
the mists of time
used to show that something happened a very long time ago and is difficult to
remember clearly
The precise details of what happened have been lost in the mists of time.
mist verb
mist ( sth ) over/up phrasal verb
1. MAINLY UK If something that you can see through mists over/up, it becomes
covered with a thin layer of liquid so that it is more difficult to see through
Open the window when you have a shower to stop the mirror misting over.
The steam from the kettle misted up her glasses.
See also steam up
2. If your eyes mist over/up, they fill with tears.
mistake noun [ C ]
1. an action, decision or judgment which produces an unwanted or unintentional
result
I'm not blaming you - we all make mistakes.
[ + to infinitive ] It was a mistake for us to come here tonight.
This letter's full of spelling mistakes.
I've discovered a few mistakes in your calculations.
Why am I under arrest? There must be some mistake.
2. by mistake
by accident
I've paid this bill twice by mistake.
and no mistake MAINLY UK OLD-FASHIONED
added to the end of something you say to emphasize it
He's a strange bloke and no mistake.
make no mistake about it
used to show that you are certain about something
Make no mistake about it, this decision is going to cause you a lot of problems.
mistake verb [ T ]
to be wrong about or to fail to recognize something or someone
You can't mistake their house - it's got a bright yellow front door.
FORMAL I mistook your signature and thought the letter was from someone else.
mistakable , UK ALSO mistakeable adjective
She's easily mistakeable for a man when she wears that suit and hat.
be no mistaking sth
When there's no mistaking something, it is impossible not to recognize it
There's no mistaking a painting by Picasso.
mistake sb/sth for sb/sth phrasal verb
to confuse someone or something with a different person or thing
I often mistake her for her mother on the phone.
mistaken adjective
wrong in what you believe, or based on a belief that is wrong
If you think you can carry on drinking so much without damaging your health,
then you're mistaken.
I'm afraid I was mistaken about how much it would cost.
The negotiations continued in the mistaken belief that a peaceful agreement
could be reached.
a case of mistaken identity
mistakenly adverb
She mistakenly believed that she could get away with not paying her taxes.
mistaken adjective
wrong in what you believe, or based on a belief that is wrong
If you think you can carry on drinking so much without damaging your health,
then you're mistaken.
I'm afraid I was mistaken about how much it would cost.
The negotiations continued in the mistaken belief that a peaceful agreement
could be reached.
a case of mistaken identity
mistakenly adverb
She mistakenly believed that she could get away with not paying her taxes.
Mister noun
1. the complete form of the title Mr
2. an informal and often rude form of address for a man whose name you do not
know
Listen to me, Mister, I don't ever wanna see you in this bar again.
ˌ Mister ˈ Big noun [ S ] HUMOROUS
the most important person in a place or organization
Paul is Mister Big in our department, so it's important to make a good impression
on him.
mistime verb [ T ]
to do something at the wrong moment with the result that it is unsuccessful or
has an unwanted effect
She mistimed her stroke and the ball went into the net.
mistletoe noun [ U ]
an evergreen (= never losing its leaves) plant with small white fruits and pale
yellow flowers which grows on trees, often used as a Christmas decoration
They were kissing under the mistletoe at the office party.
the mistral noun [ S ]
a strong cold dry wind that blows south through France to the Mediterranean
mistreat verb [ T ]
to treat a person or animal badly, cruelly or unfairly
Both parents have denied charges of mistreating their children.
I think people who mistreat their pets should be banned from keeping them.
mistreatment noun [ U ]
She suffered years of mistreatment from her violent husband.
mistress noun WOMAN IN CONTROL
1. [ S or U ] OLD-FASHIONED a woman who has control over or responsibility for
someone or something
I'll inform the mistress ( of the house) of your arrival, madam.
She intends to remain mistress of (= in charge of) her own life when she gets
married.
2. [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED a female school teacher
She got a good report from her German mistress.
3. [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED a female owner of a dog
mistress noun SEXUAL PARTNER
4. [ C ] a woman who is having a sexual relationship with a married man
Edward VII and his mistress, Lillie Langtry
mistress noun WOMAN IN CONTROL
1. [ S or U ] OLD-FASHIONED a woman who has control over or responsibility for
someone or something
I'll inform the mistress ( of the house) of your arrival, madam.
She intends to remain mistress of (= in charge of) her own life when she gets
married.
2. [ C ] UK OLD-FASHIONED a female school teacher
She got a good report from her German mistress.
3. [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED a female owner of a dog
mistress noun SEXUAL PARTNER
4. [ C ] a woman who is having a sexual relationship with a married man
Edward VII and his mistress, Lillie Langtry
mistrial noun [ C ]
1. a trial during which a mistake has been made, causing the judgment to have
no legal value
2. US a trial in which no decision can be reached about whether a person is guilty
or not
mistrust verb [ T ]
to have doubts about the honesty or abilities of someone
I've always mistrusted politicians.
mistrust noun [ U ]
There is still considerable mistrust between the management and the workforce.
mistrustful adjective
Voters are bound to be mistrustful of a government that has broken so many
promises.
mistrustfully adverb
misty adjective WEATHER
1. In misty weather, there is mist in the air which makes it difficult to see into the
distance
The morning will start off misty.
misty adjective GLASS
2. describes glass or a similar surface that is covered with a mist which makes it
difficult to see through
The windscreen is all misty.
mistily adverb
mistiness noun [ U ]
misty-eyed adjective
looking as if you are going to cry because you feel emotional about something
He goes all misty-eyed whenever he hears that song.
misunderstand verb [ I or T ]
to think you have understood someone or something when you have not
If you think that these transport problems can be solved by building more roads,
you completely misunderstand the nature of the problem.
I told him I'd meet him here, but perhaps he misunderstood and went straight to
the pub.
misunderstand verb [ I or T ]
to think you have understood someone or something when you have not
If you think that these transport problems can be solved by building more roads,
you completely misunderstand the nature of the problem.
I told him I'd meet him here, but perhaps he misunderstood and went straight to
the pub.
misunderstanding noun
1. [ C or U ] when someone does not understand something correctly
There must be some misunderstanding. I never asked for these chairs to be
delivered.
His ridiculous comments showed a complete misunderstanding of the situation.
2. [ C ] INFORMAL a disagreement, argument or fight
OFTEN HUMOROUS "How did you get your black eye?" "Oh, I had a little
misunderstanding with someone at the football match."
misuse verb [ T ]
to use something in an unsuitable way or in a way that was not intended
She was accused of misusing company funds.
misuse noun [ C or U ]
when something is used in an unsuitable way or in a way that was not intended
This new computer system is completely unnecessary and a misuse of taxpayers'
money.
the misuse of power/drugs
mite noun ANIMAL
1. [ C ] a very small animal similar to a spider
a red spider mite
mite noun CHILD
2. [ C ] MAINLY UK INFORMAL a young child, especially one deserving sympathy
because they are ill or hungry
Poor little mite, he looks so tired.
mite noun SMALL AMOUNT
3. [ S ] OLD-FASHIONED a very small amount
I couldn't eat another mite.
4. a mite OLD-FASHIONED INFORMAL
slightly
He seemed a mite embarrassed.
mitigate verb [ T ] FORMAL
to make something less harmful, unpleasant or bad
It is unclear how to mitigate the effects of tourism on the island.
mitigate verb [ T ] FORMAL

to make something less harmful, unpleasant or bad
It is unclear how to mitigate the effects of tourism on the island.
mitigating adjective
1. FORMAL making something less harmful, unpleasant or bad
Are there any mitigating circumstances/factors which might help explain her
appalling behaviour?
Compare unmitigated
2. LEGAL causing you to judge a crime to be less serious or to make the
punishment less severe
The jury must take into account any mitigating circumstances presented by the
defense, such as previous good character.
mitigation noun [ U ] FORMAL
'I was very young at the time,' he said in mitigation.
mitochondrion noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
in a cell, a long or round piece found in the cytoplasm (= substance surrounding
the nucleus) that produces energy for the cell by breaking down food
mitosis noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the type of cell division in which one cell divides into two identical cells, each with
the same number of chromosomes as the original cell
Our skin cells are continually replaced by mitosis.
Compare meiosis
mitral valve noun [ C usually sing ] SPECIALIZED
the valve (= structure that opens and closes) in the heart which stops blood from
returning into the left atrium (= upper space) from the left ventricle (= lower space)
Compare tricuspid valve
mitre , US ALSO miter noun [ C ] HAT
1. a tall pointed hat worn by bishops in official ceremonies
mitre , US ALSO miter noun [ C ] WOOD JOINT
2. ( ALSO mitre joint ) a joint made by two pieces of wood which have both been
cut at an angle of 45° at the joining ends
mitt noun
1. [ C ] a special type of glove for protecting a person's hand, especially a thick
leather glove used for catching a baseball
a catcher's mitt
oven mitts
2. [ C usually plural ] a mitten
baby/woollen mitts
3. [ C usually plural ] SLANG a person's hand
Get your filthy mitts off my sandwich!
mitt noun
1. [ C ] a special type of glove for protecting a person's hand, especially a thick
leather glove used for catching a baseball
a catcher's mitt
oven mitts
2. [ C usually plural ] a mitten
baby/woollen mitts
3. [ C usually plural ] SLANG a person's hand
Get your filthy mitts off my sandwich!
mitten noun [ C ] ( ALSO mitt )
mitten
a type of glove with a single part for all the fingers and a separate part for the
thumb
sheepskin mittens
woollen mittens
Compare glove
mix verb COMBINE
1. [ I or T ] to (cause different substances to) combine, so that the result cannot
easily be separated into its parts
Oil and water don't mix. Even if you shake them together they separate into two
layers.
Radioactive material was mixed in/up (with) the effluent.
Mix the eggs into the flour.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar and raisins.
[ + two objects ] Shall I mix (= make) you a cocktail?
2. [ T ] to have or do two or more things, such as activities or qualities, at the
same time
Some people are happy to mix business with/and pleasure, but I'm not one of
them.
mix verb BE WITH PEOPLE
3. [ I ] to be with or communicate well with other people
I suppose you mix with a wide variety of people in your job.
She mixes very well - perhaps that's why she's so popular.
mix verb RECORD MUSIC
4. [ T ] SPECIALIZED to control the amounts of various sounds which are combined
on a recording
be mixed up with/in sth USUALLY DISAPPROVING
to be connected with a bad or unpleasant person or thing
Please don't get mixed up with him. You'll regret it if you do.
I knew someone who was mixed up in that corruption scandal.
mix your metaphors
to combine two or more metaphors , often producing a silly or humorous effect
Mixing his metaphors, he described the problem by saying "We've opened up a
can of worms here, and now we have to get the genie back in the bottle".
mix it ( US mix it up ) INFORMAL
to fight or argue with people
Don't take any notice of Sally - she just likes to mix it.
ˌ mix sb/sth ˈ up phrasal verb [ M ]
to fail to recognise two people or things correctly by thinking that one person or
thing is the other person or thing
People often mix us up because we look so similar.
I think you're mixing me up with my sister.
ˌ mix sb ˈ up phrasal verb [ M ]
to confuse, worry or upset someone
The roadworks mixed me up and I went the wrong way.
mix sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make a group of things untidy or badly organized, or to move them into the
wrong order
Don't mix up the bottles - you'll have to repeat the experiment if you do.
Your jigsaw puzzles and games are all mixed up together in that box.
mix noun COMBINE
1. [ C usually sing ] a combination
There was an odd mix of people at Patrick's party.
"She's studying physics and philosophy." "That's an interesting mix."
2. [ C or U ] something which is sold in the form of a powder and to which a
liquid, such as water, can be added later
cake/cement mix
mix noun RECORD MUSIC
3. [ C ] a version of a recorded piece of music
A new mix of their hit single is due to be released early next month.
mixed adjective
1. showing a mixture of different feelings or opinions
There has been a mixed reaction to the changes.
2. for both sexes
Our children go to a mixed school .
Some of his jokes were too rude for mixed company (= a group where both
males and females are present) .
3. combining people of a different religion or race
a mixed marriage
mixed adjective
1. showing a mixture of different feelings or opinions
There has been a mixed reaction to the changes.
2. for both sexes
Our children go to a mixed school .
Some of his jokes were too rude for mixed company (= a group where both
males and females are present) .
3. combining people of a different religion or race
a mixed marriage
mixed-ability adjective
involving students of different levels of ability
mixed-ability teaching/classes
ˌ mixed ˈ bag noun [ S ]
a range of different things or people
There's a real mixed bag of people on the course.
ˌ mixed ˈ blessing noun [ S ]
something that has advantages and disadvantages
Getting into the team is a mixed blessing - it's good to have the place, but I'll
have to spend a lot of time training.
ˌ mixed ˈ doubles noun [ U ]
a game, for example a tennis game, in which each team consists of one female
and one male player
ˌ mixed e ˈ conomy noun [ C ]
an economic system in which some industries are controlled privately and some
by the government
ˌ mixed ˈ farming noun [ U ]
a method of farming in which crops are grown and animals are kept on the same
farm
ˌ mixed ˈ feelings plural noun
If you have mixed feelings about something, you feel both pleased and not
pleased about it at the same time
I had mixed feelings about leaving home. I was excited but at the same time, I
knew I would miss my family.
ˌ mixed ˈ grill noun [ C ]
a meal in which several types of meat are served together which have been
cooked under a grill (= a hot surface which you cook food under)
ˌ mixed ˈ metaphor noun [ C ]
when two or more metaphors are combined, often producing a silly or humorous
effect
"The new job has allowed her to spread her wings and really blossom," is a mixed
metaphor.
ˌ mixed ˈ metaphor noun [ C ]
when two or more metaphors are combined, often producing a silly or humorous
effect
"The new job has allowed her to spread her wings and really blossom," is a mixed
metaphor.
mixed-race adjective
1. describes a person whose parents are of different races (= the groups that
people are divided into according to their physical characteristics)
2. involving people of different races
mixed-race marriages
mixed-up adjective
upset, worried and confused, especially because of personal problems
He's just a mixed-up kid .
mixer noun MACHINE
1. [ C ] a machine which mixes substances
a cement mixer
an electric (food) mixer
mixer noun DRINK
2. [ C ] a drink which does not contain alcohol and which can be mixed with an
alcoholic drink, especially a spirit (= strong alcoholic drink)
We have ginger ale, tonic water and various other mixers.
mixer noun SOCIALIZE
3. a good/bad mixer
someone who is good/bad at socializing
You get to know lots of people at college if you're a good mixer.
4. US OLD-FASHIONED a party or dance which has been organized so that people in a
group can get to know each other
The school always holds a mixer on the second week of the term.
ˈ mixer ˌ tap noun [ C ] UK ( US mixer faucet )
a device for controlling the flow of water, so that hot and cold water come out of
the same pipe, but the flow of each is controlled separately so that the temperature of
the water coming out can be changed
mixture noun
1. [ C ] a substance made from a combination of different substances, or any
combination of different things
The mixture of flour, water and yeast is then left in a warm place for four hours.
Their latest CD is a mixture of new and old songs.
2. [ U ] the process of mixing
3. [ U ] a type of medicine which has to be shaken before being used
cough mixture
mixture noun
1. [ C ] a substance made from a combination of different substances, or any
combination of different things
The mixture of flour, water and yeast is then left in a warm place for four hours.
Their latest CD is a mixture of new and old songs.
2. [ U ] the process of mixing
3. [ U ] a type of medicine which has to be shaken before being used
cough mixture
mix-up noun [ C ]
a mistake that causes confusion
There was a mix-up at the office and we all received the wrong forms.
mizzle noun [ U ] MAINLY US
rain made of many very small drops
See also drizzle
mizzle verb [ I ]
It's been mizzling most of the morning.
mizzly adjective
Mk
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FORmark (MACHINE)
She was driving a bright yellow Mk XI Lotus two-seater.
ml noun [ C ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR millilitre
a 7 ml bottle of perfume
mm noun [ C ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR millimetre
a 6mm (diameter) drill
MMR noun [ S ]
an injection given to young children to protect them against the illnesses measles
, mumps and rubella
mnemonic noun [ C ]
something such as a very short poem or a special word used to help a person
remember something
The musical notes on the lines go EGBDF - use the mnemonic 'every good boy
deserves fun'.
mnemonic adjective
mo noun [ S ] INFORMAL
a short period of time; a moment
"Come on! We're going to be late." "Hang on a mo! I'll just get my wallet."
I'll be with you in a mo (= very soon) .
MO noun [ C ] MONEY
1. MAINLY US ABBREVIATION FOR money order
MO noun [ C ] OFFICER
2. ABBREVIATION FOR medical officer
moan verb [ I ] SOUND
1. to make a long low sound of pain, suffering or another strong emotion
He moaned with pain before losing consciousness.
"Let me die," he moaned.
moan verb [ I ] COMPLAIN
2. INFORMAL DISAPPROVING to make a complaint in an unhappy voice, usually about
something which does not seem important to other people
Thelma's always moaning ( about something), and forgets how lucky she actually
is.
[ + speech ] "I don't like potatoes," he moaned.
[ + ( that ) ] First she moans (that) she's too hot, and then that she's too cold.
moaner noun [ C ]
moan noun [ C ] SOUND
1. a long low sound of pain, suffering or another strong emotion
We could hear the moans of someone trapped under the rubble.
moans of ecstasy/agony
moan noun [ C ] COMPLAINT
2. INFORMAL DISAPPROVING when someone complains about something or a complaint
Apart from a slight moan about the waiter, he seemed to enjoy the meal.
moaning minnie noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
someone who annoys other people by complaining all the time
Oh stop being such a moaning minnie!
moat noun [ C ]
a long wide hole which is dug all the way around a place such as a castle, and
usually filled with water, to make it more difficult to attack
moated adjective
surrounded by a moat
a moated house/castle
mob noun [ + sing/pl verb ]
1. [ C ] USUALLY DISAPPROVING a large angry crowd, especially one which could easily
become violent
The angry mob outside the jail was/were ready to riot.
a lynch mob
Fifty people were killed in three days of mob violence .
2. [ C ] INFORMAL a group of people who are friends or who are similar in some way
The usual mob were/was hanging out at the bar.
3. [ S ] INFORMAL an organization of criminals
a New York mob leader
See also mobster
mob verb [ T ]
1. [ T usually passive ] to come together around someone in a crowd to express
admiration, interest or anger
They were mobbed by fans when they arrived at the theatre.
Let's not go to the Old Town tonight - it's always mobbed (= there are always a
lot of people there) on Fridays.
2. [ I or T ] When a group of birds or small animals mob a bigger or more
frightening bird or animal that is hunting them, they attack it together and force it to go
away.
mob noun [ + sing/pl verb ]
1. [ C ] USUALLY DISAPPROVING a large angry crowd, especially one which could easily
become violent
The angry mob outside the jail was/were ready to riot.
a lynch mob
Fifty people were killed in three days of mob violence .
2. [ C ] INFORMAL a group of people who are friends or who are similar in some way
The usual mob were/was hanging out at the bar.
3. [ S ] INFORMAL an organization of criminals
a New York mob leader
See also mobster
mob verb [ T ]
1. [ T usually passive ] to come together around someone in a crowd to express
admiration, interest or anger
They were mobbed by fans when they arrived at the theatre.
Let's not go to the Old Town tonight - it's always mobbed (= there are always a
lot of people there) on Fridays.
2. [ I or T ] When a group of birds or small animals mob a bigger or more
frightening bird or animal that is hunting them, they attack it together and force it to go
away.
mobile adjective
able to move freely or be easily moved
You've broken your ankle but you'll be fully mobile (= able to walk as usual)
within a couple of months.
mobile noun [ C ] PHONE
1. MAINLY UK ( US USUALLY cellphone ) a mobile phone
2. a mobile number
My mobile's 07796 10253.
mobile noun [ C ] DECORATION
3. a decoration or work of art which has many parts that move freely in the air,
for example hanging from threads
ˌ mobile ˈ home noun [ C ]
mobile home
a type of building which people live in and which usually stays in one place, but
which can be moved using a vehicle or sometimes its own engine
ˌ mobile ˈ library noun [ C ] UK ( US bookmobile )
a large road vehicle which travels around, especially in the countryside, carrying
books for people to borrow
ˈ mobile ˌ number noun [ C ]
the number for your mobile phone
ˌ mobile ˈ phone noun [ C ] MAINLY UK
mobile phone
a telephone which is connected to the telephone system by radio instead of by a
wire, and can therefore be used anywhere where its signals can be received
mobility noun [ U ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL
the ability to move freely or be easily moved
Some neck injuries cause total loss of mobility below the point of injury.
I prefer the mobility of a hand-held camera.
See also upward mobility
mobility noun [ U ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL

the ability to move freely or be easily moved
Some neck injuries cause total loss of mobility below the point of injury.
I prefer the mobility of a hand-held camera.
See also upward mobility
mobilize , UK ALSO mobilise verb
1. [ T ] to organize or prepare something, such as a group of people, for a
purpose
Representatives for all the main candidates are trying to mobilize voter support .
2. [ I or T ] to prepare to fight, especially in a war
The government has mobilized several of the army's top combat units.
Troops have been mobilising for the past three weeks.
mobilization , UK ALSO mobilisation noun [ U ]
Möbius strip/band , noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an object with only one surface which is made by twisting a long strip of material
once and then joining its two ends
mobster noun [ C ]
MAINLY US FOR gangster
moccasin noun [ C ]
a shoe which the wearer's foot slides into and which is made from soft leather
with stitches around the top at the front
mocha noun [ U ]
1. a type of coffee of good quality, or a flavouring which tastes of this
2. a mixture of coffee and chocolate
mock verb [ T ]
1. SLIGHTLY FORMAL to laugh at someone, often by copying them in a funny but
unkind way
They were mocking him because he kept falling off his bike.
She made fun of him by mocking his limp.
2. to make something appear stupid or not effective
The wind mocked their attempts to reach the shore by pushing the boat further
and further out to sea.
mock sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to make a model of something in order to show people what it will look like or
how it will work
mock adjective [ before noun ]
not real but appearing or pretending to be exactly like something
mock cream
mock leather
mock surprise
mock noun [ C ] UK
an examination taken at school for practice before a real examination
You will have your mocks during the first two weeks of March.
mockers plural noun UK INFORMAL
put the mockers on sth OLD-FASHIONED
to spoil something or stop it from happening
It rained, so that rather put the mockers on the barbecue.
mockers plural noun UK INFORMAL

put the mockers on sth OLD-FASHIONED
to spoil something or stop it from happening
It rained, so that rather put the mockers on the barbecue.
mockery noun
1. [ U ] when you mock someone or something
Bill's mockery of his dad's twitch was a bit cruel, but it made us laugh.
2. [ S ] an action or event which is a failure and makes the people involved in or
affected by it appear silly
The trial was a mockery - the judge had decided the verdict before it began.
make a mockery of sth
to make something seem stupid or without value
The fact that he sent his children to private school makes a mockery of his
socialist principles.
mocking adjective
when you laugh at someone or something in an unkind way
a mocking voice
mocking humour/laughter
mockingly adverb
mockingbird noun [ C ]
any of the types of North American or Australian birds which copy the sounds
made by other birds
mockney noun [ U ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
pronunciation of English by someone who pretends to speak like a cockney , in
order to seem as if they are from a lower social class
mock-Tudor adjective
describes a modern house which is intended to look as if it was built during the
medieval period
ˌ mock ˈ turtleneck noun [ C ]
US FOR a turtleneck
mock-up noun [ C ]
a full-size model of something large that has not yet been built, which shows how
it will look or operate, or which is used when the real thing is not needed
She showed us a mock-up of what the car will look like when it goes into
production.
Mock-up aircraft are used when we train staff for dealing with emergencies.
Mod noun [ C ]
a member of a group of young people, especially in Britain in the 1960s, who
wore stylish clothes and rode scooters (= small motorcycles)
Mods and Rockers
the ˌ Mo ˈ D noun [ S + sing/pl verb ]
ABBREVIATION FOR the Ministry of Defence: the British government department that
is responsible for defence, military activities, and the armed forces
modal (verb) noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a verb, such as 'can', 'might' and 'must', that is used with another verb to express
an idea such as possibility that is not expressed by the main verb of a sentence
The first verb in the following sentence is a modal: We ought to pay the gas bill.
ˌ mod ˈ cons plural noun UK INFORMAL
the machines and devices, such as washing machines and fridges, which make the
ordinary jobs in a home easier
The kitchen of this delightful cottage is fully equipped with all mod cons including
a dishwasher.
mode noun WAY
1. [ C ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL a way of operating, living or behaving
Each department in the company has its own mode of operation and none of
them are compatible.
Railways are the most important mode of transport for the economy.
mode noun MATHS
2. [ C ] SPECIALIZED the number or value which appears most often in a particular
set
mode noun FASHION
3. be the mode SLIGHTLY FORMAL
(especially of clothes) to be fashionable at a particular time
Miniskirts were very much the mode in the 60s.
See also á la mode
model noun [ C ] COPY
1. something which a copy can be based on because it is an extremely good
example of its type
The educational system was a model for those of many other countries.
The council plans to build a model town on the site.
Some groups want to set up an Islamic state on the Iranian model.
Even Chris, the very model of calmness (= someone who is usually extremely
calm) , was angered by having to work such long hours.
She really is a model (= perfect) student.
model noun [ C ] PERSON
2. a person who wears clothes so that they can be photographed or shown to
possible buyers, or a person who is employed to be photographed or painted
a fashion/nude model
She's going out with a male model.
I worked as an artist's model when I was a student.
See also supermodel
model noun [ C ] MACHINE
3. a particular type of machine, especially a car, which is slightly different from
machines of the same type
a luxury/new model
the latest model
model noun [ C ] REPRESENTATION
4. a representation of something, either as a physical object which is usually
smaller than the real object, or as a simple description of the object which might be
used in calculations
a plastic model aircraft
By looking at this model you can get a better idea of how the bridge will look.
to construct a statistical/theoretical/mathematical model
No computer model of the economy can predict when the next recession will be.
model verb CLOTHES
1. [ I or T ] to wear fashionable clothes, jewellery, etc. in order to advertise them
Tatjana is modelling a Versace design.
I used to model when I was younger.
model verb MAKE A REPRESENTATION
2. [ T ] to make a model of something
to model animals out of clay
to model clay into animal shapes
The whole car can be modelled on a computer before a single component is made.
model yourself on sb phrasal verb
to try to make yourself very similar to someone else
Lots of young singers modelled themselves on Madonna.
modelling UK , US modeling noun [ U ]
the job of wearing clothes, jewellery, etc. in order to advertise them
Ashley's always wanted to go into modelling.
a modelling contract
modelling UK , US modeling noun [ U ]
the job of wearing clothes, jewellery, etc. in order to advertise them
Ashley's always wanted to go into modelling.
a modelling contract
modem noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
an electronic device which allows one computer to send information to another
through standard telephone wires and therefore over long distances
moderate adjective MEDIUM-SIZED
1. neither small nor large but between the two; clearly within the limits of a range
of possibilities
moderate growth/inflation
He's a moderate drinker.
The cabin is of moderate size - just right for a small family.
Imposing sanctions is a moderate action when you consider that the alternative is
military intervention.
moderate adjective SLIGHT
2. slight or limited; not as great as hoped for
There has been a moderate improvement in her health since she began the
treatment.
We have had moderate success in changing people's attitudes.
moderate adjective OPINIONS
3. describes opinions, especially political ones, that are not extreme and are
therefore acceptable to a large number of people
The party leader is an extreme left-winger, but her deputy is more moderate in
her views.
moderately adverb
There's very little moderately priced housing in this area.
The company remains moderately profitable, but it is not making as much money
as it should.
moderate noun [ C ]
a person whose opinions, especially their political ones, are not extreme and are
therefore acceptable to a large number of people
He is well-known as a moderate in the party.
moderate verb [ I or T ]
to (cause to) become less in size, strength, or force; to reduce something
There have been repeated calls for the president to moderate his stance on
contraception.
Weather conditions have moderated, making a rescue attempt possible.
moderation noun [ U ] REASONABLE LIMITS
1. the quality of doing something within reasonable limits
You can eat whatever you like as long as it's in moderation.
All parties will have to show great moderation during these very difficult
negotiations.
moderation noun [ U ] REDUCTION
2. SLIGHTLY FORMAL when something becomes less in size, strength, or force
We can't sail until there is some moderation of the storm.
Moderation in all things. SAYING
said to advise someone that it is best not to have or do too much or too little of
anything
moderation noun [ U ] REASONABLE LIMITS
1. the quality of doing something within reasonable limits
You can eat whatever you like as long as it's in moderation.
All parties will have to show great moderation during these very difficult
negotiations.
moderation noun [ U ] REDUCTION
2. SLIGHTLY FORMAL when something becomes less in size, strength, or force
We can't sail until there is some moderation of the storm.
Moderation in all things. SAYING
said to advise someone that it is best not to have or do too much or too little of
anything
moderator noun [ C ]
1. ( US USUALLY mediator ) FORMAL someone who tries to help other people come to
an agreement
An independent moderator should be appointed to oversee the negotiations.
2. US someone who makes certain that a formal discussion happens without
problems and follows the rules
He challenged the president to a series of TV debates. Just the two of them, with
no moderator.
3. UK SPECIALIZED someone who makes certain that all the people marking (=
giving marks for) an examination use the same standards
The final marks awarded for coursework will depend upon the moderator.
modern adjective MOST RECENT
1. designed and made using the most recent ideas and methods
modern technology/architecture/medicine/art
We're in the very modern-looking building opposite the station.
APPROVING My grandpa's attitudes are very modern, considering his age.
modern adjective PRESENT
2. of the present or recent times, especially the period of history since the Middle
Ages (= since1500 AD)
What do you think is the role of religion in the modern world ?
ˌ modern ˈ dance noun [ U ]
a style of dance usually performed in a theatre, which expresses the dancer's
feelings and does not have many rules about the dancer's movements
modern-day adjective
relating to people or things from modern times and not from a time in the past
Modern-day engines are so much more efficient.
modernism noun [ U ]
1. modern thinking or methods
Modernism seeks to find new forms of expression and rejects traditional or
accepted ideas.
2. SPECIALIZED the ideas and methods of modern art, especially in the simple
design of buildings in the 1940s, 50s and 60s which were made from modern materials
modernism noun [ U ]
1. modern thinking or methods
Modernism seeks to find new forms of expression and rejects traditional or
accepted ideas.
2. SPECIALIZED the ideas and methods of modern art, especially in the simple
design of buildings in the 1940s, 50s and 60s which were made from modern materials
modernist adjective , noun [ C ]
SPECIALIZED relating to or a member of the modern art movement
Modernist architecture tries to conquer nature instead of working with it.
The design of the new library has been acclaimed by Modernists.
modernistic adjective
designed in a way that is obviously modern
The new airport has a very modernistic appearance.
modernity noun [ U ]
the condition that results from being modern
There is a stark contrast between tradition and modernity on the streets of the
city.
modernize , UK USUALLY modernise verb [ I or T ]
to make something more modern
Much of the house has been modernized.
There has been a lot of opposition to modernizing working practices.
If they want to increase output from the factory, they'll have to modernize.
modernization , UK USUALLY modernisation noun [ U ]
The modernization of the 100-year-old sewage and water systems will cost
millions of pounds.
ˌ modern ˈ jazz noun [ U ]
a type of jazz which began in the 1940s and 1950s
ˌ modern ˈ languages plural noun MAINLY UK
languages that are spoken at the present time, especially European languages
such as French, German and Spanish
modest adjective NOT LARGE
1. not large in size or amount, or not expensive
They live in a fairly modest house, considering their wealth.
There has been a modest improvement/recovery in housing conditions for the
poor.
The party made modest gains in the elections, but nothing like the huge gains
that were predicted.
Just a modest portion for me, please.
modest adjective QUIETLY SUCCESSFUL
2. APPROVING not usually talking about or making obvious your own abilities and
achievements
He's very modest about his achievements.
modest adjective CLOTHES/BEHAVIOUR
3. OLD-FASHIONED describes something such as a woman's clothes or behaviour,
which is intended to avoid attracting sexual interest
a modest walk/manner
modestly adverb
At just £9, the training video is very modestly priced .
She was dressed modestly.
modesty noun [ U ] QUIET SUCCESS
1. APPROVING when someone doesn't usually talk about or make obvious their
abilities and achievements
She does a lot of work for charities, but her modesty forbids her from talking
about it.
2. in all modesty APPROVING
said when you want to say something good about yourself, but do not want to
seem to think you are too important
Quite frankly, and in all modesty, we'd probably have lost the game if I hadn't
been playing.
modesty noun [ U ] CLOTHES/BEHAVIOUR
3. OLD-FASHIONED the quality, in women, of dressing or behaving in a way which is
intended to avoid attracting sexual interest
about it.
been playing.
modicum noun [ S ] FORMAL
a small amount of something good such as truth or honesty
There's not even a modicum of truth in her statement.
Anyone with a modicum of common sense could have seen that the plan wouldn't
work.
modification noun CHANGE
1. [ C or U ] a change to something, usually to improve it
Modification of the engine to run on lead-free fuel is fairly simple.
A couple of modifications and the speech will be perfect.
modification noun LANGUAGE
2. [ U ] SPECIALIZED when one word or phrase modifies another
ˈ modified A ˌ merican ˌ plan noun [ U ] ( ABBREVIATION MAP )
US FOR half board
modifier noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a word or phrase that is used with another word or phrase to limit or add to its
meaning
In 'safety barrier', the noun 'safety' is being used as a modifier.
modify verb [ T ] CHANGE
1. to change something such as a plan, opinion, law or way of behaviour slightly,
usually to improve it or make it more acceptable
Instead of simply punishing them, the system encourages offenders to modify
their behaviour.
The proposals were unpopular and were only accepted in a modified form.
modify verb [ T ] LANGUAGE
2. SPECIALIZED If a word or phrase modifies another word or phrase used with it, it
limits or adds to its meaning
In the sentence 'She ran quickly', the adverb 'quickly' modifies the verb 'ran'.
modish adjective
SLIGHTLY FORMAL fashionable
modishly adverb SLIGHTLY FORMAL

about it.
been playing.
modicum noun [ S ] FORMAL
a small amount of something good such as truth or honesty
There's not even a modicum of truth in her statement.
Anyone with a modicum of common sense could have seen that the plan wouldn't
work.
modification noun CHANGE
1. [ C or U ] a change to something, usually to improve it
Modification of the engine to run on lead-free fuel is fairly simple.
A couple of modifications and the speech will be perfect.
modification noun LANGUAGE
2. [ U ] SPECIALIZED when one word or phrase modifies another
ˈ modified A ˌ merican ˌ plan noun [ U ] ( ABBREVIATION MAP )
US FOR half board
modifier noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a word or phrase that is used with another word or phrase to limit or add to its
meaning
In 'safety barrier', the noun 'safety' is being used as a modifier.
modify verb [ T ] CHANGE
1. to change something such as a plan, opinion, law or way of behaviour slightly,
usually to improve it or make it more acceptable
Instead of simply punishing them, the system encourages offenders to modify
their behaviour.
The proposals were unpopular and were only accepted in a modified form.
modify verb [ T ] LANGUAGE
2. SPECIALIZED If a word or phrase modifies another word or phrase used with it, it
limits or adds to its meaning
In the sentence 'She ran quickly', the adverb 'quickly' modifies the verb 'ran'.
modish adjective
SLIGHTLY FORMAL fashionable
modishly adverb SLIGHTLY FORMAL
modulate verb [ T ] VOICE
1. to change the style, loudness, etc. of something such as your voice in order to
achieve an effect or express an emotion
His gentle introductory tone modulates into a football coach's pre-game pep talk.
modulate verb [ T ] PLAN/PROCESS
2. FORMAL to change something, such as an action or a process, to make it more
suitable for its situation
An elected committee will meet monthly to modulate the council's energy policy.
modulate verb [ T ] BROADCASTING
3. SPECIALIZED to mix an electrical signal which represents sounds or pictures with
a radio signal so that it can be broadcast
modulation noun [ C or U ]
SPECIALIZED frequency/amplitude modulation
See also AM ; FM
module noun [ C ]
1. one of a set of separate parts which, when combined, form a complete whole
The emergency building is transported in individual modules, such as bedrooms
and a kitchen, which are put together on site.
The full computer program is made up of several modules (= small programs)
which should be individually tested before being integrated.
2. one of the units which together make a complete course taught especially at a
college or university
3. a part of a spacecraft which can operate independently of the other parts,
especially when separate from them
a lunar landing module
modular adjective
Many colleges and universities now offer modular degree courses.
modus operandi noun [ S ] FORMAL
a particular way of doing something
modus vivendi noun [ S ] FORMAL
an arrangement allowing people or groups of people who have different opinions
or beliefs to work or live together
Our two countries must put aside the memory of war and seek a modus vivendi.
moggy noun [ C ] ( ALSO moggie ) UK INFORMAL
a cat, especially one which is ordinary or has an untidy appearance
mogul noun [ C ] PERSON
1. an important person who is very rich or powerful
movie/media/industry moguls
mogul noun [ C ] SNOW
2. SPECIALIZED a small pile of hard snow on the side of a hill or mountain used for
skiing, created to add interest and difficulty to the sport
mohair noun [ U ]
a soft wool or cloth made from the outer hair of angora goats (= goats with long
soft hair)
a mohair jumper
mohair noun [ U ]
soft hair)
a mohair jumper
Mohammed noun
the Arab holy man on whose life and teaching Islam is based
Mohammedan noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a Muslim. This word was previously often used in English, but Muslims consider it
offensive because it suggests that they worship Mohammed rather than Allah.
Mohican noun [ C ] UK ( US Mohawk )
Mohican
a sometimes brightly coloured hairstyle, often worn in punk fashion, in which the
hair is removed from the sides of the head and a central strip is made to point out from
the head
moi pronoun HUMOROUS
used instead of 'me', to express false surprise about something that you have
been accused of
Extravagant, moi?
moist adjective
slightly wet, especially in a good way
Keep the soil in the pot moist, but not too wet.
APPROVING This cake is lovely and moist!
See also damp
moistness noun [ U ]
moisten verb [ I or T ]
to make something slightly wet or to become slightly wet
Moisten the cloth before using it to clean glass.
moisture noun [ U ]
a liquid such as water in the form of very small drops, either in the air, in a
substance, or on a surface
These plants need a rich soil which retains moisture.
moisturizer , UK USUALLY moisturiser noun [ C or U ]
a cream that you put on your skin to stop it from becoming dry
I use (a) moisturizer every night.
moisturize , UK USUALLY moisturise verb [ I or T ]
You should cleanse, tone and moisturize (your skin) every day.
mohair noun [ U ]
soft hair)
a mohair jumper
Mohammed noun
the Arab holy man on whose life and teaching Islam is based
Mohammedan noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a Muslim. This word was previously often used in English, but Muslims consider it
offensive because it suggests that they worship Mohammed rather than Allah.
Mohican noun [ C ] UK ( US Mohawk )
Mohican
a sometimes brightly coloured hairstyle, often worn in punk fashion, in which the
hair is removed from the sides of the head and a central strip is made to point out from
the head
moi pronoun HUMOROUS
used instead of 'me', to express false surprise about something that you have
been accused of
Extravagant, moi?
moist adjective
slightly wet, especially in a good way
Keep the soil in the pot moist, but not too wet.
APPROVING This cake is lovely and moist!
See also damp
moistness noun [ U ]
moisten verb [ I or T ]
to make something slightly wet or to become slightly wet
Moisten the cloth before using it to clean glass.
moisture noun [ U ]
a liquid such as water in the form of very small drops, either in the air, in a
substance, or on a surface
These plants need a rich soil which retains moisture.
moisturizer , UK USUALLY moisturiser noun [ C or U ]
a cream that you put on your skin to stop it from becoming dry
I use (a) moisturizer every night.
moisturize , UK USUALLY moisturise verb [ I or T ]
You should cleanse, tone and moisturize (your skin) every day.
mojo noun [ U ] INFORMAL
a quality that attracts people to you and makes you successful and full of energy
He's definitely lost his mojo.
He needs to get his mojo working if he's going to win the election.
molar noun [ C ]
one of the large teeth at the back of the mouth in humans and some other
animals used for crushing and chewing food
Compare canine ; incisor
molasses noun [ U ]
a thick dark brown liquid made from sugar plants which is used in cooking
mold noun , verb
US FOR mould
molder verb [ I ]
US FOR moulder
molder verb [ I ]
US FOR moulder
Moldova noun [ U ]
Moldovan noun [ C ] , adjective
mole noun [ C ] ANIMAL
1. a small mammal which is nearly blind, has dark fur and lives in passages that it
digs under the ground
mole noun [ C ] SPOT
2. a small dark spot or lump (= raised area) on a person's skin
Compare freckle
mole noun [ C ] PERSON
3. a person who works for an organization or government and secretly gives
information to its competitor or enemy
A mole inside the Department of Transport had leaked secret proposals to the
press.
Compare spy
mo ˌ lecular bi ˈ ology noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the study of the structure and action of important molecules which are found in
living things
mo ˌ lecular ˈ weight noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the weight of a molecule, found by adding together the atomic masses of all the
atoms it contains; relative molecular mass
molecule noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the simplest unit of a chemical substance, usually a group of two or more atoms
molecular adjective
molehill noun [ C ]
a small pile of earth pushed up to the surface of the ground by the digging of a
mole (= a mammal that lives underground)
molehill noun [ C ]
a small pile of earth pushed up to the surface of the ground by the digging of a
mole (= a mammal that lives underground)
moleskin noun [ U ]
a type of strong cotton cloth which is slightly furry (= like fur) on one side
moleskin trousers
molest verb [ T ] ATTACK SEXUALLY
1. to touch or attack someone in a sexual way against their wishes
The girl had been molested frequently by her stepfather from the age of eight.
The man had previously been arrested several times for molesting young boys.
molest verb [ T ] ATTACK
2. FORMAL to touch, push, etc. someone violently
United Nations premises were looted and personnel were molested by
demonstrators.
molestation noun [ U ]
sexual molestation
molester noun [ C ]
a child molester
moll noun [ C ]
1. US SLANG a female companion of a gangster (= violent criminal)
2. AUSTRALIAN a female companion of a member of a group of people who ride
motorcycles or surf together
mollify verb [ T ]
to make someone less angry or upset
I tried to mollify her by giving her flowers.
mollusc , US ALSO mollusk noun [ C ]
any animal which has a soft body, no spine and is often covered with a shell.
Many molluscs live in water
Oysters are molluscs, as are snails and cuttlefish.
mollycoddle verb [ T ] INFORMAL MAINLY DISAPPROVING
to give someone too much care or protection
You're not helping the children by mollycoddling them - they have to grow up
sometime.
mollycoddle verb [ T ] INFORMAL MAINLY DISAPPROVING
to give someone too much care or protection
You're not helping the children by mollycoddling them - they have to grow up
sometime.
Molotov cocktail noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a type of petrol bomb
molt noun , verb
US FOR moult
molten adjective
describes metal or rock that is in a liquid state because of great heat
molten glass/lava/lead
molybdenum noun [ U ]
a very hard silver-coloured metallic element used especially to make steel
stronger
mom noun [ C ]
US mother
I miss my mom and dad a lot.
[ as form of address ] Aw, Mom, why can't I go?
moment noun SHORT TIME
1. [ C ] a very short period of time
Can you wait a moment?
I'll be ready in just a moment.
A car drew up outside and a few moments later the doorbell rang.
I'm expecting her to come at any moment (= very soon) .
Have you got a moment (= Are you busy or have you got time to speak to me) ?
moment noun OCCASION
2. [ C ] a particular time or occasion
When would be the best moment to tell the family?
Don't leave it to/till the last moment (= the latest time possible) .
If you want a private conversation with her you'll have to choose your moment
(= find a suitable time) .
The moment (that) (= As soon as) I get the money I'll send the ticket.
3. at the moment
now
I'm afraid she's not here at the moment.
4. for the moment
If you do something for the moment, you are doing it now, but might do
something different in the future
Let's carry on with what we agreed for the moment.
5. at this moment in time FORMAL
now
I can give no information at this precise moment in time.
moment noun IMPORTANCE
6. of (great) moment FORMAL
very important
a decision of great moment
See also momentous
have a senior/blond, etc. moment
to behave, for a short time, in a way which shows that you are old, silly, etc
have your /its moments
to be sometimes very successful
This album may not be as good as their last one but it has its moments.
the moment of truth
an occasion when something important happens which tests someone or
something and which will have an effect on the future
Lift-off is always the moment of truth for a new rocket.
not a moment too soon
used to say that something happened when it was almost too late
Help arrived - and not a moment too soon.
not for a moment
used to say that you do not think or do something at all
I don't believe that story for a moment.
of the moment
the person or thing that is the most important and successful at a particular time
Jack was man of the moment during the crisis.
momentarily adverb
1. for a very short time
She was momentarily confused by the foreign road signs.
2. US very soon
I'll be ready to leave momentarily.
momentarily adverb
1. for a very short time
She was momentarily confused by the foreign road signs.
2. US very soon
I'll be ready to leave momentarily.
momentary adjective
lasting for a very short time
a momentary hesitation
momentous adjective
very important because of effects on future events
the momentous news of the President's death
Whether or not to move overseas was a momentous decision for the family.
momentously adverb
momentousness noun [ U ]
momentum noun [ U ]
the force that keeps an object moving or keeps an event developing after it has
started
Once you push it, it keeps going under its own momentum.
The spacecraft will fly round the Earth to gain/gather momentum for its trip to
Jupiter.
The play loses momentum (= becomes less interesting, energetic, etc.) by its
half-way stage.
In an attempt to give new momentum to their plans, the committee set a date for
starting detailed discussions.
momma noun [ C ]
US INFORMAL FOR mother (PARENT)
mommy noun [ C ]
US INFORMAL FOR mummy (MOTHER)
Mon
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR Monday
Monaco noun [ U ]
monarch noun [ C ]
a king or queen
a hereditary monarch
Britain's head of state is a constitutional monarch (= only has very limited
powers) .
monarchic adjective ( ALSO monarchical ) FORMAL
monarch noun [ C ]
a king or queen
a hereditary monarch
Britain's head of state is a constitutional monarch (= only has very limited
powers) .
monarchic adjective ( ALSO monarchical ) FORMAL
monarchist noun [ C ]
a person who supports the system of having a king or queen
monarchy noun
1. [ C ] a country which has a king or queen
2. [ U ] the system of having a king or queen
Is monarchy relevant in the modern world or should it be abolished?
monastery noun [ C ]
a building in which monks live and worship
Compare convent ; nunnery
monastic adjective
1. connected with monks or monasteries
2. describes a simple way of living with few possessions and no people near you
a monastic life
monasticism noun [ U ]
the way monks live
Monday noun [ C or U ] ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Mon )
the day of the week after Sunday and before Tuesday
I start my new job on Monday.
UK INFORMAL OR US They'll be arriving Monday.
last Monday
next Monday
Term doesn't start this Monday (= the first one from now) , it starts (on) Monday
week (= the second one from now) .
Don't you hate going back to school on Mondays?
The baby was born on a Monday.
She went home on the Monday (= on the Monday of that particular week) .
(that) ˌ Monday ˈ morning ˌ feeling ( AUSTRALIAN Mondayitis ) INFORMAL
the way people feel after the weekend (= Saturday and Sunday) when they do
not want to go to work or school
I've got that Monday morning feeling.
Monday-morning quarterback US
someone who says how an event or problem should have been dealt with by
others after it has already been dealt with
Monégasque noun [ C ] , adjective
monumental adjective
very big
a monumental task
a monumental waste of time
monumentally adverb
monumentally dull
moo noun [ C ]
(especially in children's books) the noise that a cow makes
moo verb [ I ]
moobs noun [ plural ] SLANG
fat on a man’s chest that makes it look as though he has a woman’s breasts
mooch verb MOVE
1. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] INFORMAL to walk or act slowly and without
much purpose
DISAPPROVING Stop mooching (about/around) in your room and do something
useful!
mooch verb GET
2. [ I or T ] US SLANG to get something without paying or working for it, or to
borrow something without intending to return it
You're old enough to get a job and stop mooching off your family.
He mooched a ten off me, and I knew right then I'd never see it again.
mooch noun [ S ] INFORMAL
a period of time spent walking around slowly and without much purpose
I'm going for a mooch round the shops (= to look at what is there, not to buy a
particular thing) .
mood noun [ C ]
the way you feel at a particular time
She's in a good/bad mood.
Her mood seemed to change during the course of the conversation.
The drink had put him in an amiable mood.
The public mood changed dramatically after the bombing.
The mood of the crowd suddenly turned (= The crowd suddenly became)
aggressive.
be in no mood for sth /to do sth
to not want to do something with someone else, often because you are angry with
them
I was in no mood for chatting.
be in one of your moods INFORMAL
If a person is in one of their moods, they are being unfriendly and angry in a way
that is typical of them
Tim's in one of his moods so I'm keeping out of his way.
be in the mood
to feel like doing or having something
I'm not really in the mood for shopping.
moody adjective
If someone is moody, they are often unfriendly because they feel angry or
unhappy
a moody teenager
He can be quite moody.
moodily adverb
moodiness noun [ U ]
monumental adjective
very big
a monumental task
a monumental waste of time
monumentally adverb
monumentally dull
moo noun [ C ]
(especially in children's books) the noise that a cow makes
moo verb [ I ]
moobs noun [ plural ] SLANG
fat on a man’s chest that makes it look as though he has a woman’s breasts
mooch verb MOVE
1. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] INFORMAL to walk or act slowly and without
much purpose
DISAPPROVING Stop mooching (about/around) in your room and do something
useful!
mooch verb GET
2. [ I or T ] US SLANG to get something without paying or working for it, or to
borrow something without intending to return it
You're old enough to get a job and stop mooching off your family.
He mooched a ten off me, and I knew right then I'd never see it again.
mooch noun [ S ] INFORMAL
a period of time spent walking around slowly and without much purpose
I'm going for a mooch round the shops (= to look at what is there, not to buy a
particular thing) .
mood noun [ C ]
the way you feel at a particular time
She's in a good/bad mood.
Her mood seemed to change during the course of the conversation.
The drink had put him in an amiable mood.
The public mood changed dramatically after the bombing.
The mood of the crowd suddenly turned (= The crowd suddenly became)
aggressive.
be in no mood for sth /to do sth
to not want to do something with someone else, often because you are angry with
them
I was in no mood for chatting.
be in one of your moods INFORMAL
If a person is in one of their moods, they are being unfriendly and angry in a way
that is typical of them
Tim's in one of his moods so I'm keeping out of his way.
be in the mood
to feel like doing or having something
I'm not really in the mood for shopping.
moody adjective
If someone is moody, they are often unfriendly because they feel angry or
unhappy
a moody teenager
He can be quite moody.
moodily adverb
moodiness noun [ U ]
moon noun
1. the moon
[ S ] the round object which moves in the sky around the Earth and can be seen
at night
What time does the moon rise/set (= appear/disappear in the sky) ?
2. [ S or U ] the shape made by the amount of the moon that you can see at a
particular time
There's no moon (= You cannot see the moon) tonight.
a crescent/full/new moon
3. [ C ] a similar round object that moves around another planet
Jupiter has at least sixteen moons.
be over the moon
to be very pleased
She was over the moon about/with her new bike.
many moons ago OLD-FASHIONED
a long time ago
moon verb [ I usually + adv/prep ]
to move or spend time in a way which shows little interest and no clear purpose
She was mooning about/around the house all weekend.
He's been mooning over (= looking foolishly at) those holiday photos all
afternoon.
moonbeam noun [ C ]
a beam or line of light which comes from the moon
moonbeam noun [ C ]
a beam or line of light which comes from the moon
Moonie noun [ C ]
a member of the Unification Church, a religious group whose members must obey
its rules and teachings completely
He has joined the Moonies.
mooning noun [ U ] SLANG
showing your naked bottom as a joke or as a protest
moonless adjective
without light from the moon
a dark moonless night
moonlight noun [ U ]
the pale light of the moon
The young lovers sat in the moonlight.
do a moonlight flit UK INFORMAL
to leave secretly, especially to avoid paying money that you owe
When he discovered the police were after him, he did a moonlight flit.
moonlight verb [ I ]
to work at an extra job, especially without telling your main employer
A qualified teacher, he moonlighted as a cabbie in the evenings to pay the rent.
moonlighting noun [ U ]
You'll get sacked if the boss finds out you've been moonlighting.
moonlit adjective [ before noun ]
able to be seen because of the light of the moon
a bright moonlit night
moonshine noun [ U ] ALCOHOL
1. MAINLY US alcoholic drink made illegally
moonshine noun [ U ] SPEECH
2. INFORMAL nonsense; silly talk
moor , noun [ C ]
an open area of hills covered with rough grass
the Yorkshire moors
moor , verb [ I or T ]
to tie a boat so that it stays in the same place
We moored further up the river.
We moored the boat to a large tree root.
moor , noun [ C ]
an open area of hills covered with rough grass
the Yorkshire moors
moor , verb [ I or T ]
to tie a boat so that it stays in the same place
We moored further up the river.
We moored the boat to a large tree root.
moorhen , noun [ C ]
a small black bird which lives near water
mooring , noun
1. [ C ] a place to tie a boat
We rented a mooring.
2. moorings
[ plural ] the ropes or chains which keep a boat from moving away from a
particular place
Moorish adjective
of the Muslim people who were the rulers of Spain from 711 to 1492
Moorish architecture
moorland , noun [ C or U ]
an area of moor (= high open countryside with grass and small bushes)
moose noun [ C ] ( UK OLD-FASHIONED elk )
moose
a type of large deer with large flat horns and a long nose which lives in the forests
of North America, northern Europe and Asia
moot verb [ T ] FORMAL
to suggest something for discussion
The idea was first mooted as long ago as the 1840s.
His name was mooted as a possible successor.
moot adjective DISCUSSION
1. often discussed or argued about and having no definite answer
It's a moot point whether building more roads reduces traffic congestion.
moot adjective LEGAL CASE
2. MAINLY US LEGAL having no practical use or meaning
The district attorney said if McVeigh was given the death penalty and his
conviction was upheld on appeal, the state prosecution would become moot.
moot noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a trial or discussion dealing with an imaginary legal case, performed by students
as part of their legal training but in exactly the same way as a real one
a moot court
mop noun [ C ]
a stick with soft material fixed at one end, especially used for washing floors or
dishes
a floor mop
a dish mop
See picture mop
mop verb [ T ]
1. to use a mop to wash something
He mopped the bathroom floor .
2. to use a cloth to remove sweat from the face
He kept pausing to mop his brow .
mop sth up phrasal verb [ M ] CLEAN
1. to use a cloth or a mop to remove liquid from the surface of something
There's milk on the floor over there - could you get a cloth and mop it up?
mop sth up phrasal verb [ M ] FINISH
2. [ M ] INFORMAL to finish dealing with something
It took a week to mop up the last of the enemy soldiers (= defeat them) .
mop noun [ C ]
dishes
a floor mop
a dish mop
See picture mop
mop verb [ T ]
mope verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING
to be unhappy and unwilling to think or act in a positive way, especially because
of a disappointment
There's no point in sitting at home and moping - get out there and find yourself
another job!
mope about/around (somewhere) phrasal verb
to move about without any particular purpose or energy because you are unhappy
or disappointed
He was driving me mad, moping about the house all day.
moped noun [ C ]
moped
a small motorcycle which also has pedals (= parts which you press with your feet
to move forward) which can be used when starting it or travelling up a hill
mopoke noun [ C ] BIRD
1. a type of Australian and New Zealand owl whose call sounds like its name
mopoke noun [ C ] PERSON
2. AUSTRALIAN INFORMAL someone who is stupid or looks very unhappy
moppet noun [ C ] INFORMAL
an attractive young child, especially a girl
a curly-haired moppet
moral adjective
1. relating to the standards of good or bad behaviour, fairness, honesty, etc.
which each person believes in, rather than to laws
It's her moral obligation to tell the police what she knows.
It is not part of a novelist's job to make a moral judgment .
She was the only politician to condemn the proposed law on moral grounds (= for
moral reasons) .
The Democrats are attempting to capture the moral high ground (= are trying
to appear more honest and good than the other political parties) .
Compare amoral ; immoral
2. behaving in ways considered by most people to be correct and honest
She's a very moral woman.
Oh, stop being so moral!
Is TV responsible for weakening people's moral fibre (= ability to behave well and
honestly and work hard) ?
moral noun STANDARDS
1. morals
[ plural ] standards for good or bad character and behaviour
public/private morals
OLD-FASHIONED DISAPPROVING a person of loose morals (= whose character or sexual
behaviour are considered unacceptable)
moral noun MESSAGE
2. [ C ] The moral of a story, event or experience is the message which you
understand from it about how you should or should not behave
And the moral of/to the story is that honesty is always the best policy.
ˌ moral ˈ compass noun [ C ]
a natural feeling that makes people know what is right and wrong and how they
should behave
Some people believe that the increase in crime shows that society is losing its
moral compass.
mop noun [ C ]
dishes
a floor mop
a dish mop
See picture mop
mop verb [ T ]
mope verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING
to be unhappy and unwilling to think or act in a positive way, especially because
of a disappointment
There's no point in sitting at home and moping - get out there and find yourself
another job!
mope about/around (somewhere) phrasal verb
to move about without any particular purpose or energy because you are unhappy
or disappointed
He was driving me mad, moping about the house all day.
moped noun [ C ]
moped
a small motorcycle which also has pedals (= parts which you press with your feet
to move forward) which can be used when starting it or travelling up a hill
mopoke noun [ C ] BIRD
1. a type of Australian and New Zealand owl whose call sounds like its name
mopoke noun [ C ] PERSON
2. AUSTRALIAN INFORMAL someone who is stupid or looks very unhappy
moppet noun [ C ] INFORMAL
an attractive young child, especially a girl
a curly-haired moppet
moral adjective
1. relating to the standards of good or bad behaviour, fairness, honesty, etc.
which each person believes in, rather than to laws
It's her moral obligation to tell the police what she knows.
It is not part of a novelist's job to make a moral judgment .
She was the only politician to condemn the proposed law on moral grounds (= for
moral reasons) .
The Democrats are attempting to capture the moral high ground (= are trying
to appear more honest and good than the other political parties) .
Compare amoral ; immoral
2. behaving in ways considered by most people to be correct and honest
She's a very moral woman.
Oh, stop being so moral!
Is TV responsible for weakening people's moral fibre (= ability to behave well and
honestly and work hard) ?
moral noun STANDARDS
1. morals
[ plural ] standards for good or bad character and behaviour
public/private morals
OLD-FASHIONED DISAPPROVING a person of loose morals (= whose character or sexual
behaviour are considered unacceptable)
moral noun MESSAGE
2. [ C ] The moral of a story, event or experience is the message which you
understand from it about how you should or should not behave
And the moral of/to the story is that honesty is always the best policy.
ˌ moral ˈ compass noun [ C ]
a natural feeling that makes people know what is right and wrong and how they
should behave
Some people believe that the increase in crime shows that society is losing its
moral compass.
morale noun [ U ]
the amount of confidence felt by a person or group of people, especially when in a
dangerous or difficult situation
A couple of victories would improve the team's morale enormously.
There have been a lot of recent redundancies so morale is fairly low.
moralist noun [ C ] DISAPPROVING
a person who tries to force or teach other people to behave in ways he or she
considers to be most correct and honest
moralistic adjective DISAPPROVING
Someone or something that is moralistic judges people by fixed and possibly
unfair standards of right and wrong and tries to force or teach them to behave
according to these standards
Drug addicts need sympathetic, not moralistic, treatment.
morality noun [ C or U ]
a personal or social set of standards for good or bad behaviour and character, or
the quality of being right, honest or acceptable
They argued for a new morality based on self-sacrifice and honesty.
I have to question the morality of forcing poor people to pay for their medical
treatment.
moralize , UK USUALLY moralise verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING
to express judgments about what is morally right and what is wrong
his parents' self-righteous moralizing
moralize , UK USUALLY moralise verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING

to express judgments about what is morally right and what is wrong
his parents' self-righteous moralizing
morally adverb
based on principles that you or people in general consider to be right, honest or
acceptable
Morally, you're right, but in practice I don't think it would work.
For a teacher to hit a child is not just morally wrong but also illegal.
She thinks she's morally superior to the rest of us.
ˌ moral ma ˈ jority noun [ S ]
those people in a society, especially the US in the 20th century, who support
severe and old-fashioned Christian standards of behaviour
ˌ moral sup ˈ port noun [ U ]
If you give someone moral support, you encourage them and show that you
approve of what they are doing, rather than giving them practical help.
ˌ moral ˈ victory noun [ C ]
when you prove that your beliefs are right, although you lose an argument
morass noun [ C usually singular ] COMPLICATED SITUATION
1. something that is extremely complicated and difficult to deal with and makes
any progress almost impossible
The morass of rules and regulations is delaying the start of the project.
morass noun [ C usually singular ] WET GROUND
2. LITERARY an area of soft wet ground in which it is easy to get stuck
moratorium noun [ C ] FORMAL
a stopping of an activity for an agreed amount of time
a five-year worldwide moratorium on nuclear weapons testing
morbid adjective DISAPPROVING
too interested in unpleasant subjects, especially death
a morbid fascination with death
morbidity noun [ U ]
morbidly adverb
morbid adjective DISAPPROVING
too interested in unpleasant subjects, especially death
a morbid fascination with death
morbidity noun [ U ]
morbidly adverb
mordant adjective FORMAL
(especially of humour) cruel; criticizing in a humorous way
mordant wit/humour
a mordant remark
mordantly adverb
more determiner , pronoun , adverb
1. a larger or extra number or amount
Would you like some more food?
The doctors can't cope with any more patients.
Add some more cream to the sauce.
You need to listen more, and talk less!
More people live in the capital than in the whole of the rest of the country.
We spent more time on the last job than usual.
The noise was more than I could bear.
It was a hundred times more fun than I'd expected.
She's more of a poet than a novelist.
Bring as much food as you can - the more, the better .
2. used to form the comparative of many adjectives and adverbs
She couldn't be more beautiful.
Let's find a more sensible way of doing it.
You couldn't be more wrong.
He finds physics far/much more difficult than other science subjects.
Play that last section more passionately.
3. used to emphasize the large size of something
More than 20 000 demonstrators crowded into the square.
4. more and more
increasingly
It gets more and more difficult to understand what is going on.
5. the more...the more/less
used to say that when an action or event continues, there will be a particular
result
The more he drank, the more violent he became.
The more he insisted he was innocent, the less they seemed to believe him.
all the more
even more than before
Several publishers rejected her book, but that just made her all the more
determined.
any more
If you do not do something or something does not happen any more, you have
stopped doing it or it does not now happen
I don't do yoga any more.
couldn't agree/disagree more FORMAL
If you say that you couldn't agree/disagree more, you mean that you
agree/disagree completely.
more often than not
most of the time
More often than not, a student will come up with the right answer.
more or less
1. mostly
The project was more or less a success.
2. approximately
It's 500 kilos, more or less.
3. very nearly
He more or less admitted he'd done it.
more than
very
It's more than likely that there's oil here under the ground.
I was more than a little (= I was very) curious about the whole business.
FORMAL We will be more than glad/happy/willing to help you in any way we can.
the more the merrier
used to say an occasion will be more enjoyable if a lot of people are there
"Do you mind if I bring a couple of friends to your party?" "Not at all - the more
the merrier!"
not/no more than
used to emphasize how small an amount is
There are beautiful mountains not more than ten minutes' drive away.
That's more like it! INFORMAL
used to show that you think something or someone has improved
moreish adjective UK INFORMAL APPROVING
(of food) having a very pleasant taste and making you want to eat more
These peanuts are very moreish, aren't they?
moreish adjective UK INFORMAL APPROVING
(of food) having a very pleasant taste and making you want to eat more
These peanuts are very moreish, aren't they?
moreover adverb FORMAL
(used to add information) also and more importantly
The whole report is badly written. Moreover, it's inaccurate.
mores plural noun FORMAL
the traditional customs and ways of behaving that are typical of a particular (part
of) society
middle-class mores
the mores and culture of the Japanese
morgue noun [ C ]
MAINLY US FOR mortuary (= place where dead bodies are kept)
moribund adjective FORMAL DISAPPROVING
(especially of an organization or business) not active or successful
How can the Trade Department be revived from its present moribund state?
Mormon noun [ C ]
a member of a religious group called the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints, which began in the US in 1830
morn noun [ C ] LITERARY
a morning
Yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
morning noun [ C or U ]
1. the part of the day from the time when the sun rises or you wake up until the
middle of the day or lunch time
a beautiful/sunny/wet morning
I work three mornings a week at the bookshop.
She only works in the mornings.
What's our schedule for this morning?
I'd like an appointment for tomorrow morning, please.
I'll see you on Saturday morning.
I had too much to drink at Sarah's party, and I felt terrible the morning after .
2. in the morning
a. during the early part of the day
I listen to the radio in the morning.
b. at some time between twelve o'clock at night and twelve o'clock in the middle
of the day
The murder took place at four in the morning.
c. the next morning
She said she would see you in the morning.
morning, noon and night
all the time
Our neighbour's baby cries morning, noon and night.
morning-after pill noun [ C usually singular ]
a pill containing a drug which prevents a woman from getting pregnant if it is
taken after she has had sex
morning-after pill noun [ C usually singular ]

a pill containing a drug which prevents a woman from getting pregnant if it is
taken after she has had sex
ˈ morning ˌ dress noun [ U ] ( ALSO morning suit )
a very formal set of clothes worn by some men on occasions such as marriage
ceremonies, including a long black or grey coat, striped trousers, and a top hat
mornings adverb MAINLY US
every morning
Mornings we go running in the park.
ˈ morning ˌ sickness noun [ U ]
the feeling of wanting to vomit experienced by some women during the first
months of pregnancy
the ˌ morning ˈ star noun [ S ]
a planet, especially Venus, which can be seen shining brightly in the east just
before or as the sun rises
Moroccan noun [ C ] , adjective
Morocco noun [ U ]
moron noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a very stupid person
Some moron smashed into the back of my car yesterday.
[ as form of address ] You moron!
moronic adjective INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
very stupid
a moronic grin
some really moronic suggestions
morose adjective
unhappy, annoyed and unwilling to speak or smile; sullen
a morose expression
Why are you so morose these days?
morosely adverb
moroseness noun [ U ]
morph verb [ I or T ]
to change one image into another, or combine them, using a computer program
The video showed a man morphing into a tiger.
morph verb [ I or T ]
to change one image into another, or combine them, using a computer program
The video showed a man morphing into a tiger.
morpheme noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the smallest bit of language that has its own meaning, either a word or a part of a
word
'Worker' contains two morphemes - 'work' and '-er'.
morphine noun [ U ]
a drug made from opium , used to stop people from feeling pain or to make
people feel calmer
morphology noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
the scientific study of the structure and form of either animals and plants or words
and phrases
morphological adjective
morris dancing noun [ U ]
a type of traditional English dancing in which a group of people, especially men,
dance together, wearing special clothes decorated with little bells
morris dance noun [ C ]
morris dancer noun [ C ]
morrow noun [ S ] LITERARY
the next day, or tomorrow
They arranged to meet on the morrow.
Morse (code) noun [ U ]
a system used for sending messages, in which letters and numbers are
represented by short and long marks, sounds or flashes of light
morsel noun [ C ]
1. a very small piece of food
a morsel of cheese
The prisoners ate every last morsel.
2. a very small piece or amount
a morsel of good news
mortal adjective LITERARY
1. (of living things, especially people) unable to continue living forever; having to
die
For all men are mortal.
Compare immortal
2. causing death
a mortal injury/illness
men engaged in mortal combat (= fighting until one of them dies)
FIGURATIVE New computing technology dealt a mortal blow to the power of the old
printing unions.
Compare lethal
3. mortal dread/fear/terror
extreme anxiety about or fear of someone or something
We live in mortal dread of further attacks.
4. mortal enemy/danger/threat, etc.
a very serious and dangerous enemy/danger/threat, etc.
mortal noun [ C ] MAINLY HUMOROUS
an ordinary person, rather than a god or a special, important or powerful person
The police officers guarding the door let in the celebrities, but they prevented us
lesser/mere mortals from going inside.
mortal adjective LITERARY

1. (of living things, especially people) unable to continue living forever; having to
die
For all men are mortal.
Compare immortal
2. causing death
a mortal injury/illness
men engaged in mortal combat (= fighting until one of them dies)
FIGURATIVE New computing technology dealt a mortal blow to the power of the old
printing unions.
Compare lethal
3. mortal dread/fear/terror
extreme anxiety about or fear of someone or something
We live in mortal dread of further attacks.
4. mortal enemy/danger/threat, etc.
a very serious and dangerous enemy/danger/threat, etc.
mortal noun [ C ] MAINLY HUMOROUS
an ordinary person, rather than a god or a special, important or powerful person
The police officers guarding the door let in the celebrities, but they prevented us
lesser/mere mortals from going inside.
mortality noun [ U ] FORMAL
1. the way that people do not live forever
Her death made him more aware of his own mortality.
Compare immortality
2. the number of deaths within a particular society and within a particular period
of time
the mortality rate
Infant mortality is much higher in the poorest areas of the city.
mortally adverb
1. so severe that death is likely
mortally wounded
2. extremely
Apparently he was mortally offended .
ˌ mortal ˈ sin noun [ C usually singular ]
in the Roman Catholic religion, an action that is so bad that you will be punished
forever after your death, if you do not ask for forgiveness from God
mortar noun MIXTURE
1. [ U ] a mixture of sand, water and cement or lime that is used to fix bricks or
stones to each other when building walls
mortar noun GUN
2. [ C ] a large gun with a short wide barrel (= part shaped like a tube) which
fires bombs or other explosives very high into the air, or an explosive device shot from
such a gun
mortar noun BOWL
3. [ C ] a hard strong bowl in which substances are crushed into a powder by
hitting or rubbing them with a pestle (= heavy tool)
Use a pestle and mortar to crush the spices.
See picture pestle, mortar
mortarboard noun [ C ] ( AUSTRALIAN trencher )
a black hat with a square flat top, worn on formal occasions by some teachers and
students at college or university, and in the past by some school teachers
mortgage noun [ C ]
an agreement which allows you to borrow money from a bank or similar
organization, especially in order to buy a house or apartment, or the amount of money
itself
They took out a £40 000 mortgage (= They borrowed £40 000) to buy the
house.
a monthly mortgage payment
mortgage verb [ T ]
to borrow money to buy a house or apartment
The house was mortgaged up to the hilt (= The full value of the house had been
borrowed) .
mortgage noun [ C ]
an agreement which allows you to borrow money from a bank or similar
organization, especially in order to buy a house or apartment, or the amount of money
itself
They took out a £40 000 mortgage (= They borrowed £40 000) to buy the
house.
a monthly mortgage payment
mortgage verb [ T ]
to borrow money to buy a house or apartment
The house was mortgaged up to the hilt (= The full value of the house had been
borrowed) .
mortgagee noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a bank or similar organization which gives mortgages to people, especially so that
they can buy a house or apartment
mortician noun [ C ]
US FOR undertaker
mortification noun [ U ]
a feeling of being very embarrassed
To the mortification of the show's organizers, the top performer withdrew at the
last minute.
mortification of the flesh
punishment of yourself, especially by hitting your body with a whip
I don't really want to spend the weekend working, but as they say, a little
mortification of the flesh is good for the soul.
mortified adjective
very embarrassed
[ + to infinitive ] She was absolutely mortified to hear her son swearing at the
teacher.
mortifying adjective
very embarrassing
Catching headlice from your kids is a mortifying experience.
mortise , mortice noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
a rectangular hole in a piece of wood, stone, etc. into which another piece is fixed,
so that they form a joint
ˈ mortise ˌ lock UK ( US mortice lock ) noun [ C ] ( AUSTRALIAN deadlock )
a lock that is inside the edge of a door, so that it cannot be seen or removed
when the door is closed
mortuary noun [ C ]
1. UK ( US morgue ) a building, or a room in a hospital, where dead bodies are
kept so that they can be examined before the funeral
2. US FOR funeral parlour
mosaic noun [ C ]
mosaic
a pattern or picture made using many small pieces of coloured stone or glass
a beautiful 10th century mosaic
FIGURATIVE The country is now a cultural and social mosaic (= mixture) due to the
influx of different ethnic groups.
mosaic noun [ C ]
mosaic
a pattern or picture made using many small pieces of coloured stone or glass
a beautiful 10th century mosaic
FIGURATIVE The country is now a cultural and social mosaic (= mixture) due to the
influx of different ethnic groups.
mosey verb [ I usually + adv/prep ] INFORMAL
to walk or go slowly, usually without a special purpose
I'll just mosey on down to the beach for a while.
mosh verb [ I ] INFORMAL
to dance energetically and violently at a rock concert
mosher noun [ C ]
ˈ mosh ˌ pit noun [ C or S ] INFORMAL
the area in front of the stage at a rock concert where members of the audience
dance energetically and violently
Moslem noun , adjective
Muslim
Mosotho noun [ C ]
mosque noun [ C ]
a building for Islamic religious activities and worship
mosquito noun [ C ] ( UK INFORMAL mozzie/mossie )
a small flying insect that bites people and animals, and sucks their blood
Some types of the anopheles mosquito transmit malaria to humans.
mos ˈ quito ˌ net noun [ C ]
a net that hangs over and around a bed to keep insects away from someone who
is sleeping
moss noun [ C or U ]
a very small green or yellow plant that grows especially in wet earth or on rocks,
walls and tree trunks
The rocks near the river were covered with moss.
mossy adjective
a mossy tree/rock/lawn
most determiner , pronoun , adverb
1. the biggest number or amount of; more than anything or anyone else
What's the most you've ever won at cards?
Which of you earns the most money?
He wanted to do the most good he could with the £200, so he gave it to charity.
The kids loved the fair, but they enjoyed the bumper cars most of all .
2. used to form the superlative of many adjectives and adverbs
Joanne is the most intelligent person I know.
The department needs three more computers in order to work most effectively (=
to work as effectively as possible) .
3. almost all
I don't eat meat, but I like most types of fish.
In this school, most of the children are from the Chinese community.
4. FORMAL very
It was a most beautiful morning.
5. MAINLY US INFORMAL almost
You'll find her in the bar most every evening about six o'clock.
6. make the most of sth
to take full advantage of something because it may not last long
It's a lovely day - we must make the most of it .
-most suffix
used to mean 'furthest'
John O'Groats is the northernmost part of the British mainland (= the part that is
farther to the north than any other part) .
mostly adverb
mainly
In the smaller villages, it's mostly (= usually) very quiet at nights.
The band are mostly (= Most of them are) teenagers, I think.
MOT noun [ C ]
a test which all British road vehicles more than three years old have to pass each
year in order to prove that they are safe to drive
The car will fail its MOT if we don't get the brakes fixed.
an MOT certificate
MOT verb [ T ]
I want to get/have the car MOT'd before we drive to France.
mote noun [ C ] LITERARY
something, especially a bit of dust, that is so small it is almost impossible to see
motel noun [ C ] ( US ALSO motor inn/lodge )
a hotel by the side of a road, usually with spaces for cars next to each room
moth noun [ C ]
moth
an insect with wings which is similar to a butterfly , usually flies at night, and is
attracted to light
Some types of moth eat holes in clothes.
mothball noun
a small white ball containing a chemical with a strong smell that keeps moths
away from clothes
mothball verb [ T ]
to stop work on an idea, plan or job, but leaving it in such a way that you can
start on it again at some point in the future
Six coal pits were mothballed in the hope that they could be reopened in a time of
better economic conditions.
moth-eaten adjective
If clothing or furniture is moth-eaten, it looks old and has holes in it.
I found some moth-eaten old sweaters in the back of the wardrobe.
mother noun [ C ] PARENT
1. a female parent
My mother was 21 when she got married.
All the mothers and fathers had been invited to the end-of-term concert.
The little kittens and their mother were all curled up asleep in the same basket.
[ as form of address ] FORMAL OR OLD-FASHIONED May I borrow your car, Mother?
mother noun [ C ] SLANG
2. US OFFENSIVE motherfucker
at your mother's knee LITERARY
If you learned something at your mother's knee, you learned it when you were a
child
I learned to sew at my mother's knee.
the mother of all sth INFORMAL
an extreme example of something
We got caught in the mother of all storms.
mother verb [ T ] OFTEN DISAPPROVING
to treat a person with great kindness and love and to try to protect them from
anything dangerous or difficult
Stop mothering her - she's 40 years old and can take care of herself.
Mother noun
the title of a woman who is in charge of, or who has a high rank within, a convent
Mother Theresa
a mother superior
[ as form of address ] Good morning, Mother.
motherboard noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the main printed circuit board that contains the CPU of a computer and makes it
possible for the other parts of a computer to communicate with each other
ˈ mother ˌ country noun [ S ]
the country where you were born or which you feel is your original home
Even though she hasn't lived in Spain for 50 years, she still calls it her mother
country.
ˈ mother ˌ figure noun [ C ]
a woman who you feel you can ask for help, support or advice
mother noun [ C ] PARENT
1. a female parent
My mother was 21 when she got married.
All the mothers and fathers had been invited to the end-of-term concert.
The little kittens and their mother were all curled up asleep in the same basket.
[ as form of address ] FORMAL OR OLD-FASHIONED May I borrow your car, Mother?
mother noun [ C ] SLANG
2. US OFFENSIVE motherfucker
at your mother's knee LITERARY
If you learned something at your mother's knee, you learned it when you were a
child
I learned to sew at my mother's knee.
the mother of all sth INFORMAL
an extreme example of something
We got caught in the mother of all storms.
mother verb [ T ] OFTEN DISAPPROVING
to treat a person with great kindness and love and to try to protect them from
anything dangerous or difficult
Stop mothering her - she's 40 years old and can take care of herself.
Mother noun
the title of a woman who is in charge of, or who has a high rank within, a convent
Mother Theresa
a mother superior
[ as form of address ] Good morning, Mother.
motherboard noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the main printed circuit board that contains the CPU of a computer and makes it
possible for the other parts of a computer to communicate with each other
ˈ mother ˌ country noun [ S ]
the country where you were born or which you feel is your original home
Even though she hasn't lived in Spain for 50 years, she still calls it her mother
country.
ˈ mother ˌ figure noun [ C ]
a woman who you feel you can ask for help, support or advice
motherfucker noun [ C ] ( ALSO mother )
1. MAINLY US OFFENSIVE an extremely insulting name for someone you hate or for
someone who has made you angry
If that motherfucker touches my car again, I'll break his fingers!
2. US OFFENSIVE an extremely unpleasant thing
That was a motherfucker of an exam.
motherfucking adjective US OFFENSIVE
He's a motherfucking son of a bitch.
motherhood noun [ U ]
the state or time of being a mother
I don't feel ready for motherhood yet.
mother-in-law noun [ C ]
the mother of your husband or wife
motherland noun [ U ]
fatherland
motherless adjective
without a mother
a poor motherless child
motherly adjective USUALLY APPROVING
describes a woman who treats other people with a lot of kindness and love and
tries to make certain they are happy
ˌ Mother ˈ Nature noun [ U ] OFTEN HUMOROUS
nature, especially when considered as a force that controls the weather and all
living things
It is better to try to work with, rather than against, Mother Nature.
mother-of-pearl noun [ U ]
a smooth, hard substance forming a layer inside the shells of some sea animals. It
is white but also seems to shine with many different colours. It is used to make buttons
and for decoration.
Mother's Day noun [ C usually singular ] ( UK ALSO Mothering Sunday )
a day each year when people give a card or present to their mother or do
something special for her
mother-to-be noun [ C ]
a woman who is pregnant
ˌ mother ˈ tongue noun [ C usually singular ]
the first language that you learn when you are a baby, rather than a language
learned at school or as an adult
mothproof adjective
(especially of clothes) chemically treated in order to keep moths away
mothproof adjective
(especially of clothes) chemically treated in order to keep moths away
motif noun [ C ] PATTERN
1. a pattern or design
We chose some curtains with a flower motif.
motif noun [ C ] IDEA
2. an idea that is used many times in a piece of writing or music
The motif of betrayal is crucial in all these stories.
motile adjective SPECIALIZED
(especially of plants, organisms and very small forms of life) able to move by
itself
motility noun [ U ]
motion noun MOVEMENT
1. [ C or U ] the act or process of moving, or a particular action or movement
The violent motion of the ship upset his stomach.
He rocked the cradle with a gentle backwards and forwards motion.
They showed the goal again in slow motion (= at a slower speed so that the
action could be more clearly seen) .
2. [ C ] UK a polite way of referring to the process of excretion of solid waste, or
the waste itself
The nurse asked if her motions were regular.
motion noun SUGGESTION
3. [ C ] a formal suggestion made, discussed and voted on at a meeting
[ + to infinitive ] Someone proposed a motion to increase the membership fee to
£500 a year.
The motion was accepted/passed/defeated/rejected .
go through the motions INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
to do something without thinking it is very important or having much interest in it
He says he's been investigating my complaint, but I feel he's just going through
the motions.
put/set sth in motion
to start a machine or process
Once the printing processes have been put in motion, they're not so easy to stop.
We wrote to the passport office to set the whole process in motion.
motion verb [ I or T usually + adv/prep ]
to make a signal to someone, usually with your hand or head
I saw him motion to the man at the door, who quietly left.
Her attendants all gathered round her, but she motioned them away.
[ + object + to infinitive ] He motioned me to sit down.
motionless adjective
without moving
The horse lay motionless on the ground, as if dead.
motionless adjective
without moving
The horse lay motionless on the ground, as if dead.
ˈ motion ˌ picture noun [ C ]
US FORMAL FOR movie
ˈ motion ˌ sickness noun [ U ]
travel sickness
motivate verb
1. [ T often passive ] to cause someone to behave in a particular way
Like so many people, he's motivated by greed.
He is genuinely motivated by a desire to help people.
2. [ T ] to make someone want to do something well
[ + to infinitive ] Teaching is all about motivating people to learn.
motivated adjective
a racially-motivated murder
Our staff are hard-working and highly motivated (= enthusiastic) .
motivation noun ENTHUSIASM
1. [ U ] enthusiasm for doing something
He's a bright enough student - he just lacks motivation.
There seems to be a lack of motivation among the staff.
motivation noun REASON
2. [ C ] the need or reason for doing something
What was the motivation for the attack?
The motivation behind the decision is the desire to improve our service to our
customers.
motivational adjective [ before noun ]
giving you motivation (= enthusiasm)
a motivational speaker
motive noun [ C ]
a reason for doing something
Why would she have killed him? She has no motive.
Does he have a motive for lying about where he was?
What is the motive behind (= the reason for) the bombing?
I think you should examine/question their motives in offering to lend you the
money.
She denies that she has has an ulterior (= secret) motive for making the
donation.
motive adjective [ before noun ] SPECIALIZED
(of power or force) causing movement or action
motiveless adjective
without a motive
an apparently motiveless murder
motiveless adjective
without a motive
an apparently motiveless murder
mot juste noun [ C usually singular ] FORMAL
the word or phrase that is exactly right in a particular situation
motley adjective [ before noun ]
consisting of many different types and therefore appearing strange or of low
quality
There's a motley assortment/collection of old furniture in the house we're
renting at the moment.
The people who turned up to the meeting were a motley crew (= a group
consisting of many different types of people) .
motocross noun [ U ] ( ALSO scrambling )
the sport of racing over rough ground on specially strengthened motorcycles
motor noun [ C ] DEVICE
1. a device that changes electricity or fuel into movement and makes a machine
work
The pump is powered by a small electric motor.
Our washing machine needs a new motor.
MAINLY US I've had a new motor (= engine) put in my car.
motor noun [ C ] CAR
2. MAINLY UK OLD-FASHIONED a car
Do you know anyone who's looking for a second-hand motor?
motor adjective [ before noun ] CAR
1. MAINLY UK connected with cars or other vehicles which have engines and use
roads
This has been a difficult year for the motor industry/trade .
motor insurance
motor adjective [ before noun ] MUSCLES
2. SPECIALIZED relating to muscles that produce movement, or the nerves and parts
of the brain that control these muscles
He has poor motor control/functions .
motor verb [ I ]
1. UK OLD-FASHIONED to drive
I was just motoring along , minding my own business, when suddenly I was
stopped by the police.
2. INFORMAL to move or increase very quickly
Shares have motored ahead as profits have risen.
motorbike noun [ C ]
motorbike
1. UK a motorcycle
She jumped on her motorbike and raced off down the road.
2. US a bicycle with a small engine
motorbike
1. UK a motorcycle
motorboat noun [ C ]
motorboat
a usually small and often fast boat which is driven by an engine
motorcade noun [ C ] ( US ALSO autocade )
a series of cars and other motor vehicles which moves slowly along a road
carrying someone important, especially during an official ceremony
ˈ motor ˌ car noun [ C ] UK FORMAL OR OLD-FASHIONED
a car
motorcycle noun [ C ] ( ALSO motorbike )
motorcycle
a vehicle with two wheels and an engine
motorcyclist noun [ C ]
a person who rides a motorcycle
motorhome , motor home noun [ C ]
motorhome
a large motor vehicle that is designed to be lived in while travelling. It contains
cooking equipment, one or more beds, and sometimes a toilet.
motoring adjective [ before noun ] MAINLY UK
relating to driving
motoring costs
It was the first time he'd been convicted of a motoring offence .
ˈ motor ˌ inn noun [ C ]
US FOR motel
motorbike
1. UK a motorcycle
motorboat
a car
motorcycle
motorhome
relating to driving
motoring costs
US FOR motel
motorist noun [ C ]
a person who drives a car
motorized , UK USUALLY motorised adjective WITH AN ENGINE
1. specially fitted with an engine or motor
a motorized wheelchair
motorized , UK USUALLY motorised adjective SOLDIERS
2. Soldiers who are motorized are provided with wheeled vehicles which have
engines
motorized infantry
ˈ motor ˌ lodge noun [ C ]
US FOR motel
motorman noun [ C ] US
a driver of an underground train
motormouth noun [ C ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
a person who talks quickly and continuously, often without considering what they
are saying
ˈ motor ˌ mower noun [ C ]
a machine for cutting grass that has a motor
motorbike
1. UK a motorcycle
motorboat
a car
motorcycle
motorhome
relating to driving
motoring costs
US FOR motel
motorist noun [ C ]
a person who drives a car
motorized , UK USUALLY motorised adjective WITH AN ENGINE
1. specially fitted with an engine or motor
a motorized wheelchair
motorized , UK USUALLY motorised adjective SOLDIERS
2. Soldiers who are motorized are provided with wheeled vehicles which have
engines
motorized infantry
ˈ motor ˌ lodge noun [ C ]
US FOR motel
motorman noun [ C ] US
a driver of an underground train
motormouth noun [ C ] INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
a person who talks quickly and continuously, often without considering what they
are saying
ˈ motor ˌ mower noun [ C ]
a machine for cutting grass that has a motor
ˌ motor ˈ neurone di ˌ sease noun [ U ]
a disease which causes the muscles to become weak and results in death
ˈ motor ˌ racing noun [ U ]
the sport of racing extremely fast and powerful cars around a track
ˈ motor ˌ scooter noun [ C ]
a very light motorcycle with small wheels
ˈ motor ˌ vehicle noun [ C ] FORMAL OR LEGAL
a vehicle that has an engine
The council has forbidden motor vehicles from entering the city centre.
motorway noun [ C ] UK ( US freeway )
a wide road built for fast moving traffic travelling long distances
Because of the bad weather, motorway (driving) conditions are expected to be
hazardous tonight.
Motown noun [ U ] TRADEMARK
a type of popular music which is similar to rhythm and blues , or an American
record company, based in Detroit, and started by black people, which produces this
a new album on the Motown label
Motown was particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s.
Motswana noun [ C ]
mottled adjective
covered with areas of different colours which do not form a regular pattern
mottled skin
motto noun [ C ]
a short sentence or phrase that expresses a belief or purpose
Her motto is "Work hard, play hard".
mould UK , US mold noun GREEN/GREY GROWTH
1. [ U ] a soft green or grey growth which develops on old food or on objects that
have been left for too long in warm wet air
There was mould on the cheese.
mould UK , US mold noun SHAPE
2. [ C ] a hollow container with a particular shape into which soft or liquid
substances are poured, so that when the substance becomes hard it takes the shape of
the container
a cake/jelly mould
mould UK , US mold noun TYPE OF PERSON
3. [ S ] If someone is from or in a mould, they have the characteristics typical of a
certain type of person
He's cast in a very different mould from his brother.
He's a player in the Becker mould.
mould UK , US mold verb
1. [ T ] to make a soft substance a particular shape
This plastic is going to be moulded into plates.
The children moulded little pots out of/from (= made them by shaping) clay.
2. [ T ] to try to change or influence someone
He kept trying to mould me into something he wanted me to be.
3. [ I usually + adverb or preposition ] to fit the body very closely
She was wearing an extremely tight costume which moulded to/round the
contours of her body.
the container
a cake/jelly mould
moulder UK , US molder verb [ I ]
1. to decay slowly; to rot
I found these apples mouldering in the cupboard.
2. to be left somewhere and not used or cared for
There's an old bike that's been mouldering away in the shed for years.
moulding UK , US molding noun [ C or U ]
a piece of wood, plastic, stone, etc. which has been made into a particular shape
to decorate the top or bottom of a wall, or a door, window or piece of furniture
mouldy UK , US moldy adjective COVERED
1. covered with mould
mouldy bread/cheese
mouldy UK , US moldy adjective BAD
2. [ before noun ] UK OLD-FASHIONED SLANG of little value; unpleasant
All he gave me was a mouldy old 50p.
3. not modern or interesting
The city's museums are filled with mouldy old collections.
moult UK , US USUALLY molt verb [ I ]
(of a bird or animal) to lose feathers, skin or hair as a natural process at a
particular time of year so that new feathers, skin or hair can grow
mound noun [ C ] PILE
1. a large pile of earth, stones, etc. like a small hill
a burial mound (= a place where people were buried in ancient times)
2. a large pile of something
a mound of potatoes/papers
mound noun [ C ] BASEBALL
3. US the raised area in baseball from which the pitcher throws the ball
mount verb INCREASE
1. [ I ] to gradually increase, rise, or get bigger
The children's excitement is mounting as Christmas gets nearer.
mount verb GET ON
2. [ I or T ] to get on a horse, bicycle, etc. in order to ride
She mounted her horse and rode off.
mount verb GO UP
3. [ T ] to go up or onto
He mounted the platform and began to speak to the assembled crowd.
FORMAL Queen Elizabeth II mounted the throne (= became queen) in 1952.
mount verb ORGANIZE
4. [ T ] to organize and begin an activity or event
to mount an attack/campaign/challenge/protest
to mount an exhibition/display
mount verb FIX
5. [ T ] to fix something on a wall, in a frame etc., so that it can be viewed or
used
The children's work has been mounted on cards and put up on the walls of the
classroom.
The CCTV camera is mounted above the main door.
mount verb GUARD
6. [ T ] to place someone on guard
Sentries are mounted outside the palace at all times.
7. mount guard (on/over sb )
to guard someone
Armed security officers are employed to mount guard over the president.
mount up phrasal verb
to gradually become a large amount
It isn't a good idea to let bills mount up.
mount noun [ C ] HORSE
1. FORMAL a horse
an excellent mount for a child
mount noun [ C ] FOR A PICTURE ETC.
2. something, such as a piece of card, that you put something on to show it
I'm looking for a piece of card I can use as a mount for this picture.
the container
a cake/jelly mould
moulder UK , US molder verb [ I ]
1. to decay slowly; to rot
I found these apples mouldering in the cupboard.
2. to be left somewhere and not used or cared for
There's an old bike that's been mouldering away in the shed for years.
moulding UK , US molding noun [ C or U ]
a piece of wood, plastic, stone, etc. which has been made into a particular shape
to decorate the top or bottom of a wall, or a door, window or piece of furniture
mouldy UK , US moldy adjective COVERED
1. covered with mould
mouldy bread/cheese
mouldy UK , US moldy adjective BAD
2. [ before noun ] UK OLD-FASHIONED SLANG of little value; unpleasant
All he gave me was a mouldy old 50p.
3. not modern or interesting
The city's museums are filled with mouldy old collections.
moult UK , US USUALLY molt verb [ I ]
(of a bird or animal) to lose feathers, skin or hair as a natural process at a
particular time of year so that new feathers, skin or hair can grow
mound noun [ C ] PILE
1. a large pile of earth, stones, etc. like a small hill
a burial mound (= a place where people were buried in ancient times)
2. a large pile of something
a mound of potatoes/papers
mound noun [ C ] BASEBALL
3. US the raised area in baseball from which the pitcher throws the ball
mount verb INCREASE
1. [ I ] to gradually increase, rise, or get bigger
The children's excitement is mounting as Christmas gets nearer.
mount verb GET ON
2. [ I or T ] to get on a horse, bicycle, etc. in order to ride
She mounted her horse and rode off.
mount verb GO UP
3. [ T ] to go up or onto
He mounted the platform and began to speak to the assembled crowd.
FORMAL Queen Elizabeth II mounted the throne (= became queen) in 1952.
mount verb ORGANIZE
4. [ T ] to organize and begin an activity or event
to mount an attack/campaign/challenge/protest
to mount an exhibition/display
mount verb FIX
5. [ T ] to fix something on a wall, in a frame etc., so that it can be viewed or
used
The children's work has been mounted on cards and put up on the walls of the
classroom.
The CCTV camera is mounted above the main door.
mount verb GUARD
6. [ T ] to place someone on guard
Sentries are mounted outside the palace at all times.
7. mount guard (on/over sb )
to guard someone
Armed security officers are employed to mount guard over the president.
mount up phrasal verb
to gradually become a large amount
It isn't a good idea to let bills mount up.
mount noun [ C ] HORSE
1. FORMAL a horse
an excellent mount for a child
mount noun [ C ] FOR A PICTURE ETC.
2. something, such as a piece of card, that you put something on to show it
I'm looking for a piece of card I can use as a mount for this picture.
Mount noun ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Mt )
used as part of the name of a mountain
Mount Everest
Mount Hood
Mount noun ( WRITTEN ABBREVIATION Mt )
used as part of the name of a mountain
Mount Everest
Mount Hood
mountain noun [ C ] VERY LARGE HILL
mountain
1. a raised part of the Earth's surface, much larger than a hill, the top of which
might be covered in snow
The Matterhorn is one of the biggest mountains in Europe.
The Rockies are a mountain chain/range in the western USA.
I'd love to go mountain -climbing.
We're going to the mountains (= an area where there are mountains) for our
holiday.
mountain noun [ C ] LARGE AMOUNT
2. UK a large amount of food which is kept in storage instead of being sold, so
that prices for it do not fall
a grain mountain
3. a mountain of sth
a large amount of something
I've got a mountain of work to do.
make a mountain out of a molehill
to make a slight difficulty seem like a serious problem
You're making a mountain out of a molehill. You wrote one bad essay - it doesn't
mean you're going to fail your exam.
ˈ mountain ˌ bike noun [ C ]
a bicycle with thick tyres and a lot of gears , originally made for riding on hills and
rough ground, but now often used on roads
mountaineer noun [ C ]
a person who climbs mountains as a sport or job
mountaineering noun [ U ]
the sport or activity of climbing mountains
ˌ mountain ˈ lion noun [ C ]
US FOR puma
mountainous adjective
1. having a lot of mountains
a mountainous region
2. very big
mountainous waves
Mountains plural noun
used as part of a name for a group of mountains
the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia
mountainside noun [ C usually singular ]
the side or slope of a mountain
Can you see those goats high up on the mountainside?
mountaintop noun [ C ]
the top of a mountain
See also peak ; summit
See picture top
mounted adjective [ before noun ]
describes soldiers or police officers who ride horses while on duty
mounted police officers
Mountie noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police
mounting adjective
gradually increasing
mounting anxiety/ excitement
mounting debts
mourn verb [ I or T ]
to feel or express great sadness, especially because of someone's death
Queen Victoria mourned Prince Albert/Prince Albert's death for 40 years.
She was still mourning for her brother.
They mourned the passing of traditional folk dancing (= felt sad because it had
stopped existing) .
mourner noun [ C ]
a person at a funeral
The dead man's wife and children were the chief mourners.
mournful adjective
very sad
a mournful expression
mournful music
mournfully adverb
mournfulness noun [ U ]
mourning noun [ U ]
1. great sadness felt because someone has died
Shops will be closed today as a sign of mourning for the king.
He was in mourning for his wife.
2. the usually black clothes that are worn in some countries as an expression of
sadness about someone's death
3. a loud crying that people in some countries make when someone dies
The mourning could be heard all day and all night.
mourning noun [ U ]
1. great sadness felt because someone has died
Shops will be closed today as a sign of mourning for the king.
He was in mourning for his wife.
2. the usually black clothes that are worn in some countries as an expression of
sadness about someone's death
3. a loud crying that people in some countries make when someone dies
The mourning could be heard all day and all night.
mouse noun ANIMAL
1. [ C ] a small mammal with short fur, a pointed face, and a long tail
a field mouse
a pet mouse
See picture mouse
mouse noun COMPUTER
2. [ C ] a small device which you move across a surface in order to move a cursor
on your computer screen
See pictures mouse , computer
mouse noun PERSON
3. [ C usually singular ] a shy, quiet, nervous person
ˈ mouse ˌ mat noun [ C ] UK ( US mouse pad )
the special flat piece of material on which you move the mouse for your computer
See pictures mouse , computer
ˈ mouse po ˌ tato noun [ C ]
HUMOROUS a person who spends a lot of time on their computer and does not have
an active style of life
mouser noun [ C ]
a cat that catches mice
She's a good mouser.
mousetrap noun [ C ]
mousetrap
a small device that is used in houses and other buildings for catching and killing
mice
moussaka noun [ U ]
a dish, originally from Greece, consisting of meat, tomato and aubergine (= a
large purple vegetable) with cheese on top
mousse noun [ C or U ] FOOD
1. a light cold food made from eggs mixed with cream
chocolate mousse
salmon mousse
mousse noun [ C or U ] HAIR/SKIN
2. a light creamy substance which is put on the hair or skin to improve its
appearance or condition
styling mousse
mousse noun [ C or U ] FOOD
1. a light cold food made from eggs mixed with cream
chocolate mousse
salmon mousse
mousse noun [ C or U ] HAIR/SKIN
2. a light creamy substance which is put on the hair or skin to improve its
appearance or condition
styling mousse
moustache , US USUALLY mustache noun [ C ]
moustache
hair which a man grows above his upper lip
Groucho Marx had a thick black moustache.
mousy adjective ( ALSO mousey ) HAIR
1. describes hair which is brown and not special or attractive
mousy adjective ( ALSO mousey ) PERSON
2. shy and nervous and having few interesting qualities
A mousy-looking woman accompanied him.
mouth noun BODY PART
1. [ C ] the opening in the face of a person or animal, consisting of the lips and
the space between them, or the space behind containing the teeth and the tongue
Open your mouth wide and say "Ah".
You shouldn't put so much food in your mouth at once.
See picture mouth
mouth noun OPENING
2. [ C usually singular ] the opening of a narrow container, the opening of a hole
or cave, or the place where a river flows into the sea
Quebec is at the mouth of the St Lawrence River.
See picture mouth
be all mouth ( UK ALSO be all mouth and no trousers ) INFORMAL
to talk a lot about doing something but never do it
He says he's going to complain to the manager, but I reckon he's all mouth.
be down in the mouth INFORMAL
to be sad
keep your mouth shut INFORMAL
to not talk about something
I don't know whether to tell him what I know or keep my mouth shut.
make sb's mouth water
If the smell or sight of food makes your mouth water, it makes you want to eat it
The smell of that bacon cooking is making my mouth water.
mouth to feed
someone, especially a new-born baby, who you must provide food for
They've got three kids and the husband's just lost his job - the last thing they
need is another mouth to feed.
Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings. LITERARY SAYING
said when a child says something that surprises you because it shows an adult's
understanding
mouth verb [ T ]
to form words with the lips without making any sound
It looks to me as if the singers are only mouthing the words .
[ + speech ] "Can we go?" mouthed Mary.
I don't want to stand here listening to you mouthing (= saying in a way that is not
sincere) excuses.
See also badmouth
mouth off (about sth ) phrasal verb INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
to express your opinions too loudly and publicly
I had to listen to Michael mouthing off about the government all through lunch.
ˌ mouth ˈ off (to/at sb ) phrasal verb INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
to speak in a rude or offensive way to someone
She's a typical teenager, coming home late at night and mouthing off to her
parents.
mouthbreather noun [ C ] MAINLY US INFORMAL
a stupid person
mouthbreathing adjective INFORMAL
stupid
a mouthbreathing idiot
mouthbreather noun [ C ] MAINLY US INFORMAL
a stupid person
mouthbreathing adjective INFORMAL
stupid
a mouthbreathing idiot
-mouthed suffix
having a mouth or way of talking of the stated type
a loud-mouthed teenager (= talking very loudly, especially to attract attention)
a foul -mouthed drunk (= often swearing)
We stared open -mouthed (= in surprise) as the elephant walked slowly down
Fairview Close.
mouthful noun AMOUNT
1. [ C ] an amount of food or drink which fills your mouth, or which you put into
your mouth at one time
He only ate a few mouthfuls of meat.
mouthful noun WORD
2. [ S ] INFORMAL a word or phrase that is difficult to pronounce or that has a lot of
syllables
I've always called myself 'Henny' because it's less of a mouthful than 'Henrietta'.
give someone a mouthful MAINLY UK INFORMAL
to shout something angry at someone, usually swearing at them
A taxi driver wound down his window and gave the cyclist a mouthful.
ˈ mouth ˌ organ noun [ C ]
a harmonica
mouthpiece noun [ C ] PIECE OF EQUIPMENT
1. the part of a telephone, musical instrument or other device that goes near or
between the lips
To play the recorder, blow gently into the mouthpiece.
See picture mouth
mouthpiece noun [ C ] PERSON OR NEWSPAPER
2. DISAPPROVING a person or a newspaper that only expresses the opinions of one
particular organization
This newspaper is just a Republican mouthpiece.
mouth-to-mouth (resuscitation) noun [ U ]
artificial respiration
mouthwash noun [ C or U ]
a liquid used for keeping the mouth clean and smelling fresh
mouthwash noun [ C or U ]
a liquid used for keeping the mouth clean and smelling fresh
mouth-watering adjective
describes food that looks as if it will taste good
Look at those mouth-watering cakes.
movable , ALSO moveable adjective
able to be moved
a chair with movable armrests
ˌ movable ˈ feast noun [ C ]
1. a religious holiday that is not on the same day every year
Easter is a movable feast.
2. INFORMAL something which can happen at any time that suits people
Lunch is officially from 12.30 to 1, although it tends to be a movable feast.
move verb CHANGE POSITION
1. [ I or T ] to (cause to) change position
I'm so cold I can't move my fingers.
Will you help me move this table to the back room?
Can we move (= change the time of) the meeting from 2pm to 3.30pm?
Don't move! Stay right where you are.
I thought I could hear someone moving about/around upstairs.
If you move along/over/up (= go further to the side, back or front) a bit, Tess
can sit next to me.
Police officers at the scene of the accident were asking passers-by to move
along/on (= to go to a different place) .
Come on, it's time we were moving (= going to a different place) .
Let's stay here tonight, then move on (= continue our journey) tomorrow
morning.
2. [ I or T ] to change the position of one of the pieces used in a board game
In chess, the pieces can only move in certain directions.
move verb CHANGE PLACE
3. [ I ] to go to a different place to live or work
We're moving to Paris.
They've bought a new house, but it will need a lot of work before they can move
into it/move in .
I hear Paula has moved in with her boyfriend (= gone to live in his house) .
The couple next door moved away (= went to live somewhere else) last year.
A lot of businesses are moving out of London because it's too expensive.
4. move house UK
to leave your home in order to live in a new one
We're moving house next week.
move verb PROGRESS
5. [ I or T ] to (cause to) progress, change or happen in a particular way or
direction
The judge's decision will allow the case to move ahead .
If you want to move ahead in your career, you'll have to work harder.
Share prices moved up/down slowly yesterday.
Sophie has been moved up/down a grade at school.
It's time this company moved into (= started to take advantage of the benefits
of) the computer age.
move verb CAUSE
6. [ T ] to cause someone to take action
[ + object + to infinitive ] FORMAL I can't imagine what could have moved him to
say such a thing.
move verb CHANGE OPINION
7. [ I or T ] to (cause to) change an opinion or the way in which you live or work
He's made up his mind, and nothing you can say will move him on the issue.
More and more people are moving away from/towards vegetarianism.
move verb FEELINGS
8. [ T ] to cause someone to have strong feelings, such as sadness, sympathy,
happiness or admiration
She said that she was deeply moved by all the letters of sympathy she had
received.
It was such a sad film that it moved him to tears (= made him cry) .
move verb SELL
9. [ I or T ] INFORMAL to sell
No one wants to buy these toys - we just can't move them.
This new shampoo is moving really fast.
move verb BE WITH PEOPLE
10. [ I + adverb or preposition ] to spend time with people
She moves in/among a very small circle of people.
move verb SUGGEST
11. [ I or T ] SPECIALIZED to suggest something, especially formally at a meeting or
in a court of law
A vote was just about to be taken when someone stood up and said that they
wished to move an amendment.
[ + that ] I should like to move that the proposal be accepted.
Your Honour, we wish to move for dismissal of the charges.
move verb PASS
12. [ I or T ] POLITE WORD (used especially by doctors and nurses) to pass the
contents of the bowels out of the body
The doctor asked him if he'd moved his bowels that day.
move heaven and Earth
to do everything you can to achieve something
He'll move heaven and Earth to get it done on time.
Move it! INFORMAL
used to tell someone to hurry
Come on, Phil, move it!
move on to higher/better things HUMOROUS
to get a better job or improve your life in some way
I hear you've moved on to higher things.
not move a muscle
to stay completely still
She sat without moving a muscle as the nurse put the needle in.
move sb/sth in phrasal verb [ M ]
If the police, army or any group of people in authority move in, or if someone
moves them in, they take control or attack, in order to deal with a difficult or dangerous
situation
When a company goes out of business, officials usually move in to take control.
The decision has been made to move UN troops in to try and stop the fighting.
move in on sth/sb phrasal verb
If you move in on a person or place, you come close or closer to them in order to
attack or take control of them
Government troops are moving in on the rebel stronghold.
move off sth /on (to sth ) phrasal verb
to change from one subject to another when talking or writing
Let's move off this subject now, shall we?
"Can we move on to the next item for discussion, please?"
move on phrasal verb NEW PLACE
1. to leave the place where you are staying and go somewhere else
I've been in Paris long enough - it's time to move on.
move on phrasal verb NEW ACTIVITY
2. to start a new activity
I'd done the same job for years and felt it was time to move on.
move out phrasal verb
to stop living in a particular home
Her landlord has given her a week to move out.
move noun CHANGE OF POSITION
1. [ S ] an act of moving
She held the gun to his head and said, "One move and you're dead!"
I hate the way my boss watches my every move (= watches everything I do) .
2. [ C ] in some board games , a change of the position of one of the pieces used
to play the game, or a change of position that is allowed by the rules, or a player's turn
to move their piece
It takes a long time to learn all the moves in chess.
It's your move.
move noun CHANGE OF PLACE
3. [ C ] when you go to live or work in a different place
We've had four moves in three years.
move noun ACTION
4. [ C ] an action taken to achieve something
Buying those shares was a good move.
This move (= stage in a plan of action) towards improving childcare facilities has
been widely welcomed.
[ + to infinitive ] The council is making a move (= taking action) to ban traffic in
some parts of the city.
5. make the first move
a. to be the first to take action
Neither side seems prepared to make the first move towards reaching a peace
agreement.
b. INFORMAL to start a romantic or sexual relationship with someone
She's fancied him for ages, but doesn't want to make the first move.
be on the move INFORMAL
1. to be physically active
I've been on the move all day and I'm really tired.
2. to be travelling
We're going to be on the move all next week, but we'll call you when we get to
Edinburgh.
get a move on INFORMAL
to hurry
Come on, you two, get a move on!
We need to get a move on if we're going to catch that train.
make a move UK ( US be on the move ) INFORMAL
to leave a place
It's late - I think it's time we made a move.
moved adjective
having strong feelings of sadness or sympathy, because of something someone
has said or done
When she told me about her daughter's death, I was too moved even to speak.
moved adjective
having strong feelings of sadness or sympathy, because of something someone
has said or done
When she told me about her daughter's death, I was too moved even to speak.
movement noun POSITION CHANGE
1. [ C or U ] a change of position
He made a sudden movement and frightened the bird away.
For a long time after the accident, he had no movement in (= was unable to
move) his legs.
Her movements were rather clumsy.
2. sb's movements
what someone is doing during a particular period
I don't know his movements this week.
movement noun GROUP OF PEOPLE
3. [ C + singular or plural verb ] a group of people with a particular set of aims
the women's movement
The suffragette movement campaigned for votes for women.
[ + to infinitive ] a movement to stop animals being killed for their fur
movement noun CHANGE OPINION
4. [ C or U ] when you change an opinion or the way in which you live or work
There has been a movement (= change in the way people think and feel)
towards more women going back to work while their children are still small.
Recently there has been some movement away from traditional methods of
teaching.
movement noun PROGRESS
5. [ U ] when something progresses, changes or happens in a particular way or
direction
There has been little movement in the dollar (= It has not changed in value very
much) today.
movement noun MUSIC
6. [ C ] one of the main parts of a piece of classical music that is separated from
the other parts with pauses
Beethoven's fifth symphony has four movements.
movement noun CLOCK/WATCH
7. [ C ] the part of a clock or watch which turns the narrow pointers that show the
time
movement noun EXCRETE
8. [ C ] POLITE WORD (used especially by doctors and nurses) an act of emptying
the bowels
When did you last have a (bowel) movement?
mover noun [ C ] MOVE POSSESSIONS
1. US ( UK remover , AUSTRALIAN removalist ) someone who helps people move
their possessions to a different place to live or work
mover noun [ C ] DANCER
2. OLD-FASHIONED used in descriptions of how someone dances
He's a great mover.
mover noun [ C ] SELL
3. INFORMAL a product which sells very well
These skirts have been one of our best movers this spring.
mover noun [ C ] SUGGEST
4. SPECIALIZED a person who formally makes a suggestion during a formal meeting
or discussion
mover noun [ C ] MOVE POSSESSIONS
1. US ( UK remover , AUSTRALIAN removalist ) someone who helps people move
their possessions to a different place to live or work
mover noun [ C ] DANCER
2. OLD-FASHIONED used in descriptions of how someone dances
He's a great mover.
mover noun [ C ] SELL
3. INFORMAL a product which sells very well
These skirts have been one of our best movers this spring.
mover noun [ C ] SUGGEST
4. SPECIALIZED a person who formally makes a suggestion during a formal meeting
or discussion
the ˌ movers and ˈ shakers plural noun
people with a lot of power and influence
It's a play that's attracted the attention of the Broadway movers and shakers.
movie noun
1. [ C ] MAINLY US FOR a cinema film
My favourite movie is 'Casablanca'.
2. the movies
[ plural ] MAINLY US a cinema or group of cinemas
What's on/showing at the movies this week?
Shall we go to the movies tonight?
moviegoer noun [ C ] US ( UK filmgoer/cinemagoer )
a person who regularly goes to watch films at the cinema
moviegoing noun [ U ] , adjective [ before noun ] MAINLY US ( MAINLY UK
filmgoing/cinemagoing )
the moviegoing public
ˈ movie ˌ star noun [ C ] MAINLY US ( MAINLY UK film star )
a very popular and successful movie actor
Greta Garbo was one of the great movie stars of the 1930s.
She dated several of the big movie stars of the time.
Who's your favourite movie star?
ˈ movie ˌ theater noun [ C ]
US FOR cinema
There's a season of Bergman films on at our local movie theater.
moving adjective CHANGING POSITION
1. [ before noun ] A moving object is one that moves
a moving target
moving parts in a machine
moving adjective FEELINGS
2. causing strong feelings of sadness or sympathy
a very moving story
I find some of Brahms's music deeply moving.
moving adjective CAUSING ACTION
3. [ before noun ] causing someone to take action
Local parents were the moving force/spirit behind the safety improvements at
the playground (= They were the people who made them happen) .
moving noun [ U ]
going to a different place to live or work
I hate moving.
movingly adverb
in a way that causes strong feelings of sadness or sympathy
He spoke movingly about his wife's death.
movingly adverb
in a way that causes strong feelings of sadness or sympathy
He spoke movingly about his wife's death.
ˈ moving ˌ van noun [ C ]
US FOR removal van
mow verb [ I or T ]
to cut plants, such as grass or wheat, which have long thin stems and grow close
together
You can't mow the grass/lawn if it's wet.
I love the smell of new -mown hay.
mow sb down phrasal verb [ M ]
to kill people, usually in large numbers, by shooting them or driving a vehicle into
them
Three shoppers were mown down this afternoon when a drunken driver lost
control of his car.
mower noun [ C ]
a machine for cutting especially grass
See also lawnmower
Mozambican noun [ C ] , adjective
Mozambique noun [ U ]
mozzarella noun [ U ]
a soft white Italian cheese
MP noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Member of Parliament
Robert Smith MP
Who is the MP for Cambridge?
MP3 noun [ C or U ] TRADEMARK
a computer file which stores high-quality sound in a small amount of space, or the
technology that makes this possible
I downloaded their latest album on MP3.
MP ˈ 3 ˌ player noun [ C ]
an electronic device or a computer program for playing music which has been
stored as MP3 files
See picture music listening
MP ˈ 3 ˌ player noun [ C ]
an electronic device or a computer program for playing music which has been
stored as MP3 files
See picture music listening
mpg
ABBREVIATION FOR miles per gallon; the number of miles a vehicle travels using one
gallon of fuel
My car does about 40 mpg.
How many mpg do you get from your car?
mph
miles per hour
ABBREVIATION FOR
My car won't do/go more than 70 mph.
She was caught driving at 120 mph.
MPhil noun [ C ]
UK ABBREVIATION FOR Master of Philosophy
Alison Wells, MPhil
He has/is doing an MPhil in psychology.
MPV noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR multi-purpose vehicle: a people carrier
Mr noun
1. a title used before the family name or full name of a man who has no other
title, or when talking to man who holds a particular official position
Mr Jones/Mr David Jones
[ as form of address ] Good afternoon, Mr Dawson.
We're looking for a Mr (= a man called) George Smith.
It's an honour to have you here today, Mr President.
Compare Miss ; Mrs ; Ms.
See also Messrs
2. used when expressing the idea that a man is typical of or represents a quality,
activity or place
She's still hoping to meet Mr Right (= the perfect man) .
He thinks he's Mr Big (= that he is very important) .
no more Mr Nice Guy INFORMAL
something that is said when someone has decided to stop thinking about the
wishes and feelings of other people
I've had enough of people taking advantage of me. From now on it's no more Mr
Nice Guy.
MRI noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR magnetic resonance imaging: a system for producing electronic
pictures of the organs inside a person's body, using radio waves and a strong magnetic
field
MRI noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR magnetic resonance imaging: a system for producing electronic
pictures of the organs inside a person's body, using radio waves and a strong magnetic
field
Mrs noun
1. a title used before the family name or full name of a married woman who has
no other title
Mrs Wood/Mrs Jean Wood
[ as form of address ] Hello, Mrs Grant, how are you today?
Compare madam ; Miss ; Mr ; Ms
2. used when expressing the idea that a married woman is typical of or represents
a quality, activity or place
Mrs Average (= a woman who is typical of an ordinary woman)
MRSA noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus: a type of bacterium (= an extremely
small organism) that cannot be treated by most antibiotics
Ms , noun
a title used before the family name or the full name of a woman, whether she is
married or not
Ms Hill/Ms Paula Hill
[ as form of address ] What can I do for you, Ms Wood?
Compare Miss ; Mr ; Mrs
ms noun [ C ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR manuscript
MS noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR multiple sclerosis
MSc noun [ C ] ( US MS ) UK ABBREVIATION FOR
Master of Science
Lynn Kramer MSc
Phil has/is doing/is studying for an MSc in biochemistry.
MS-DOS noun [ U ] TRADEMARK
a set of programs for controlling the storage and organization of information on
the magnetic discs of personal computers and for controlling who can use that
information
msec
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR millisecond
msec
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR millisecond
MSG noun [ U ]
ABBREVIATION FOR monosodium glutamate
Msgr noun [ before noun ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR Monsignor
MSP noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Member of the Scottish Parliament
Mt noun
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR Mount or mountain
Mt Everest
MTV noun [ U + sing/pl verb ]
TRADEMARK ABBREVIATION FOR Music Television: an organization that broadcasts
popular music internationally
much determiner
1. a large amount or to a large degree
I don't earn much money.
You haven't said much, Joan - what do you think?
I like her very much.
I don't think there's much to be gained by catching an earlier train.
The children never eat (very) much, but they seem quite healthy.
"Is there any wine left?" " Not much."
There's not/nothing much to do around here.
How much (= What amount of) sugar do you take in your coffee?
How much do these shoes cost?
I spend too much on clothes.
I don't have as much time as (= I have less time than) I would like for visiting
my friends.
Because of the rain, we weren't able to spend much of the day on the beach.
Have you seen/heard much of Polly (= often seen or heard about her) recently?
I'd very much like to visit them sometime.
One day I hope I'll be able to do as much (= the same amount) for you as you've
done for me.
Things around here are much as always/usual/ever (= have not changed a lot)
.
The two schools are much the same (= very similar) .
Much to our surprise, (= We were very surprised that) they accepted our offer.
I'm not much good at knitting (= do not do it very well) .
This is a much (= often) discussed issue.
Brian's become a much (= greatly) changed person since his car accident.
I've been feeling much healthi er (= a lot more healthy) since I became a
vegetarian.
The repairs to our car cost much more than we were expecting.
I'm very much aware of the problem.
She's much the best person for the job (= She is certainly better than everyone
else) .
I would much rather have my baby at home than in hospital.
She is as much a friend to me as a mother (= although she is my mother, she is
also a friend) .
2. INFORMAL used at the end of a negative sentence to suggest the opposite of
what you have just said
I can see you don't like chocolate - much!
3. much too much
a far larger amount of something than you want or need
You've drunk much too much to drive.
4. too much
more than someone can deal with
I can't look after six children at my age - it's too much.
5. a bit much
unreasonable and unfair
I think it's a bit much for you to expect me to do all the cleaning.
And you had to work till eight? That's a bit much!
as much
1. If you say that you thought/expected/said as much, it means that something
bad that you thought/expected/said would happen has happened
I knew he'd fail - I said as much at the time.
2. the same
Go on, lend me the money - you know I'd do as much for you.
as much again UK
the same amount again
My fare was nearly £10, and it was almost as much again for the children.
as much as
almost
He as much as admitted that it was his fault.
as much as you can do UK
If you say something is as much as you can do, you manage to do it, but with
great difficulty
I felt so ill this morning, it was as much as I could do to get out of bed.
much as
although
Much as I would like to help you, I'm afraid I'm simply too busy at the moment.
much less
and certainly not
Tony can barely boil an egg, much less cook dinner.
not go much on sth UK INFORMAL
to dislike something
I don't go much on white wine.
not so much sth as sth
If you say that something is not so much one thing as something else, you mean
it is more the second thing
They're not so much lovers as friends.
I don't feel angry so much as sad.
so much
a particular amount
By the time you've paid so much for the ferry and so much for the train fare, it
would be cheaper to go by plane.
so much for sth
used to express disappointment and anger at the fact that a situation is not as
you thought it was
The car's broken down again. So much for our trip to the seaside.
much pronoun , adverb
(something) of good quality
He's not much to look at , but he has a wonderful personality.
I've never been much of a dancer (= good at dancing, or interested in doing it) .
There's not/nothing much on TV tonight.
muchness noun UK INFORMAL
be much of a muchness
to be very similar and usually of low quality
The songs you hear on the radio these days all sound much of a muchness.

muck noun [ U ]
1. dirt or solid animal waste
You're treading muck into the carpet with your dirty shoes!
a pile of dog muck
2. something you consider very unpleasant or very low quality
I'm not eating that muck!
The immigrants were treated like muck (= treated badly, as if they were not
important) .
make a muck of sth INFORMAL
to spoil something or do something very badly
I've made a muck of it - I'll have to do it again.
Where there's muck there's brass. UK SAYING
said to mean that a lot of money can be made from business activities which are
dirty or unpleasant
muck verb
muck sb/sth about/around phrasal verb MAINLY UK INFORMAL
to behave in a silly way, or to treat someone or something in a careless way
Stop mucking about with those ornaments, you'll break something!
I'm fed up with them mucking me about and cancelling our arrangements.
muck in phrasal verb UK INFORMAL
to share the work that needs to be done
She doesn't mind mucking in with the rest of us when there's work to be done.
muck (sth) out phrasal verb [ M ]
to clean a place where a large animal lives, especially a stable , by removing the
waste products and old straw
She'd spent all morning mucking out the horses.
muck sth up phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to spoil something completely, or do something very badly
I really prepared for the interview because I didn't want to muck it up.
I mucked up the whole exam!
muckraking , muck-raking noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
the activity, especially of newspapers and reporters , of trying to find out
unpleasant information about people or organizations in order to make it public
There was so much muckraking about his family life that he decided not to stand
for election.
muckraker noun [ C ]

muck noun [ U ]
1. dirt or solid animal waste
You're treading muck into the carpet with your dirty shoes!
a pile of dog muck
2. something you consider very unpleasant or very low quality
I'm not eating that muck!
The immigrants were treated like muck (= treated badly, as if they were not
important) .
make a muck of sth INFORMAL
to spoil something or do something very badly
I've made a muck of it - I'll have to do it again.
Where there's muck there's brass. UK SAYING
said to mean that a lot of money can be made from business activities which are
dirty or unpleasant
muck verb
muck sb/sth about/around phrasal verb MAINLY UK INFORMAL
to behave in a silly way, or to treat someone or something in a careless way
Stop mucking about with those ornaments, you'll break something!
I'm fed up with them mucking me about and cancelling our arrangements.
muck in phrasal verb UK INFORMAL
to share the work that needs to be done
She doesn't mind mucking in with the rest of us when there's work to be done.
muck (sth) out phrasal verb [ M ]
to clean a place where a large animal lives, especially a stable , by removing the
waste products and old straw
She'd spent all morning mucking out the horses.
muck sth up phrasal verb [ M ] INFORMAL
to spoil something completely, or do something very badly
I really prepared for the interview because I didn't want to muck it up.
I mucked up the whole exam!
muckraking , muck-raking noun [ U ] DISAPPROVING
the activity, especially of newspapers and reporters , of trying to find out
unpleasant information about people or organizations in order to make it public
There was so much muckraking about his family life that he decided not to stand
for election.
muckraker noun [ C ]
muck-up noun [ C ] INFORMAL
a mistake that completely spoils something
They made a muck-up of our order - it won't be ready till next week now.
mucky adjective
1. INFORMAL dirty
Get your mucky feet off that chair!
Don't walk all over my clean floor in your mucky boots.
2. UK INFORMAL pornographic
a mucky magazine
mucous membrane noun [ C ] SPECIALIZED
the thin skin that covers the inside surface of parts of the body such as the nose
and mouth and produces mucus to protect them
mucus noun [ U ]
a thick liquid produced inside the nose and other parts of the body
This drug reduces mucus production in the gut.
mud noun [ U ]
earth that has become wet and sticky
The vehicles got bogged down in the heavy mud.
Modern houses have replaced the one-room mud huts with grass roofs that had
been home to generations of peasants.
These mud flats (= level ground near the sea) are a site of special scientific
interest.
Here's mud in your eye! INFORMAL
sometimes said by people in a friendly way just before drinking an alcoholic drink
together
hurl/throw/sling mud at sb
to say insulting or unfair things about someone, especially to try to damage their
reputation
See also mud-slinging
Mud sticks. UK SAYING
said to mean that people are likely to believe something bad that is said about
someone, even if it is not true
mud noun [ U ]
earth that has become wet and sticky
The vehicles got bogged down in the heavy mud.
Modern houses have replaced the one-room mud huts with grass roofs that had
been home to generations of peasants.
These mud flats (= level ground near the sea) are a site of special scientific
interest.
Here's mud in your eye! INFORMAL
sometimes said by people in a friendly way just before drinking an alcoholic drink
together
hurl/throw/sling mud at sb
to say insulting or unfair things about someone, especially to try to damage their
reputation
See also mud-slinging
Mud sticks. UK SAYING
said to mean that people are likely to believe something bad that is said about
someone, even if it is not true
muddle noun [ S or U ]
an untidy or confused state
The documents were in a muddle.
Whenever I go abroad I get in a muddle about/over (= become confused about)
the money.
muddle verb
muddle along phrasal verb
to continue doing something with no clear purpose or plan
Decide what you want in life - don't just muddle along.
muddle through phrasal verb
to manage to do something although you are not organized and do not know how
to do it
I'm afraid I can't help you - you'll just have to muddle through on your own.
muddle sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to arrange things in the wrong order
I've arranged the books alphabetically so don't muddle them up.
muddle sb/sth up phrasal verb [ M ]
to think that a person or thing is someone or something else because they are
very similar
I often muddle up Richard with his brother.
It's easy to muddle up some Spanish and Italian words.
muddled adjective THINGS
1. Things that are muddled are badly organized
He left his clothes in a muddled pile in the corner.
muddled adjective PERSON
2. A person who is muddled is confused
He became increasingly muddled as he grew older.
muddle-headed adjective
not thinking clearly or in an organized way
muddy adjective DIRTY
1. covered by or containing mud (= wet, sticky earth)
Don't bring those muddy boots inside!
muddy water
muddy adjective COLOURS
2. describes colours that are dark and not bright
The sitting-room has been painted in muddy browns and greens.
muddy verb [ T ]
to put mud (= wet sticky earth) into something or cover something with mud
Industrial activity has muddied the river.
muddy the waters
to make a situation more confused and less easy to understand or deal with
muddy adjective DIRTY
1. covered by or containing mud (= wet, sticky earth)
Don't bring those muddy boots inside!
muddy water
muddy adjective COLOURS
2. describes colours that are dark and not bright
The sitting-room has been painted in muddy browns and greens.
muddy verb [ T ]
to put mud (= wet sticky earth) into something or cover something with mud
Industrial activity has muddied the river.
muddy the waters
to make a situation more confused and less easy to understand or deal with
mudflap noun [ C ] UK ( US splash guard )
one of the pieces of rubber which are fixed to a vehicle behind the wheels to
prevent dirt and small objects from being thrown up
See picture car exterior
mudflat noun [ C ]
a flat area of very wet soil near the sea which is covered at high tide (= the time
when the sea reaches its highest level and comes furthest up the beach)
mudguard noun [ C ] ( US USUALLY fender )
a curved piece of metal or plastic above the wheels of a bicycle or motorcycle that
prevents dirt from getting on the rider
mudpack noun [ C ]
a special substance that you put on your face and leave for a short time to
improve your skin
ˌ mud ˈ pie noun [ C ]
a small round shape made of mud by children playing
mud-slinging , mudslinging noun [ U ]
when you say insulting or unfair things about someone, especially to try to
damage their reputation
political mud-slinging
muesli noun [ U ]
a mixture of raw grains, dried fruit and nuts that is eaten with milk as part of the
first meal of the day
Compare granola
muezzin noun [ C ]
a man who calls Muslims to prayer from the tower of a mosque (= Muslim holy
building)
muff noun [ C ]
a short tube of fur or warm cloth, into which women in the past put their hands in
cold weather in order to keep them warm
muff verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to spoil an opportunity or do something badly
I only had two lines in the whole play and I muffed them.
muff noun [ C ]
a short tube of fur or warm cloth, into which women in the past put their hands in
cold weather in order to keep them warm
muff verb [ T ] INFORMAL
to spoil an opportunity or do something badly
I only had two lines in the whole play and I muffed them.
muffin noun [ C ] BREAD
1. UK ( US English muffin ) a small round flat type of bread, usually sliced in two
and eaten hot with butter
muffin noun [ C ] CAKE
2. a small sweet cake that often has fruit inside it
blueberry muffins
muffle verb [ T ] MAKE LESS CLEAR
1. to make a sound quieter and less clear
The house's windows are double-glazed to muffle the noise of aircraft.
2. to make something less strong or clear
The report concluded that business pressure on the government had muffled the
impact of the legislation.
muffle verb [ T ] KEEP WARM
3. to wear thick warm clothes in order to keep warm
I was muffled up against the cold in a scarf and hat.
muffled adjective
describes a sound that is quiet or not clear
I could hear muffled voices next door but couldn't make out any words.
The muffled roar of traffic could be heard in the distance.
muffler noun [ C ] CAR
1. US a silencer
muffler noun [ C ] CLOTHES
2. OLD-FASHIONED a thick scarf (= long piece of cloth worn around the neck)
mufti noun [ U ] OLD-FASHIONED
ordinary clothes worn by people who usually wear uniforms, especially soldiers
The admiral arrived in mufti.
mug noun [ C ] CUP
mug
1. a large cup with straight sides used for hot drinks
I made myself a large mug of cocoa (= enough to fill a mug) and went to bed.
2. beer mug
MAINLY US a heavy glass with a handle and usually with patterns cut into its side,
out of which you drink beer
mug noun [ C ] STUPID PERSON
3. MAINLY UK INFORMAL a person who is stupid and easily deceived
He's such a mug, he believes everything she tells him.
mug noun [ C ] FACE
4. INFORMAL MAINLY DISAPPROVING someone's face
his ugly mug
a mug's game UK INFORMAL
an activity that will not make you happy or successful
Teaching's a mug's game.
mug verb [ T ]
to attack a person in a public place and steal their money
He was mugged in broad daylight.
mug (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ] UK INFORMAL
to study a subject quickly before taking an examination
I've got to mug up (on) my History before tomorrow's exam.
mug noun [ C ] CUP
mug
1. a large cup with straight sides used for hot drinks
I made myself a large mug of cocoa (= enough to fill a mug) and went to bed.
2. beer mug
MAINLY US a heavy glass with a handle and usually with patterns cut into its side,
out of which you drink beer
mug noun [ C ] STUPID PERSON
3. MAINLY UK INFORMAL a person who is stupid and easily deceived
He's such a mug, he believes everything she tells him.
mug noun [ C ] FACE
4. INFORMAL MAINLY DISAPPROVING someone's face
his ugly mug
a mug's game UK INFORMAL
an activity that will not make you happy or successful
Teaching's a mug's game.
mug verb [ T ]
to attack a person in a public place and steal their money
He was mugged in broad daylight.
mug (sth) up phrasal verb [ M ] UK INFORMAL
to study a subject quickly before taking an examination
I've got to mug up (on) my History before tomorrow's exam.
mugger noun [ C ]
a person who attacks people in order to steal their money
mugging noun [ C or U ]
an act of attacking someone and stealing their money
Police are concerned that mugging is on the increase.
muggins noun [ S ] UK HUMOROUS
a stupid person: often used to describe yourself when you have done something
silly or when you feel you are being treated unfairly
I suppose muggins here will have to look after the cat when they go on holiday
(= I will have to do it but I don't want to) .
muggy adjective
When the weather is muggy, it is unpleasantly warm and the air contains a lot of
water.
ˈ mug ˌ shot noun [ C ] SLANG
a photograph taken by the police of a person who has been charged with a crime
A poster with mug shots of wanted men was on the wall.
mujahideen , mujahedin, mujaheddin plural noun
Muslim soldiers fighting in support of their political and religious beliefs
mulatto , noun [ C ]
an offensive word for someone with one black parent and one white parent
mulberry noun [ C ]
a small soft purple fruit, or the tree that has these fruit
mulch noun [ C or U ]
a covering of decaying leaves that is spread over the soil in order to keep water in
it or to improve it
mulch verb [ I or T ]
to put mulch on or around something
[ + adverb or preposition ] Mulch around the base of the roses.
Mulch the roses.
mule noun [ C ] ANIMAL
1. an animal whose mother is a horse and whose father is a donkey , which is
used especially for transporting goods
mule noun [ C ] PERSON
2. a person who agrees to carry illegal drugs into another country in return for
payment by the person selling the drugs
These very poor women who are used as mules by drug barons often get long
prison sentences.
mule noun [ C ] SHOE
3. a woman's shoe or slipper that has no back
mule noun [ C ] ANIMAL
1. an animal whose mother is a horse and whose father is a donkey , which is
used especially for transporting goods
mule noun [ C ] PERSON
2. a person who agrees to carry illegal drugs into another country in return for
payment by the person selling the drugs
These very poor women who are used as mules by drug barons often get long
prison sentences.
mule noun [ C ] SHOE
3. a woman's shoe or slipper that has no back
mulga noun AUSTRALIAN
1. [ C or U ] a type of tree found in dry regions, or its wood
2. [ S ] the bush (AREA OF LAND)
They live up in the mulga.
mulish adjective
describes someone who is very determined and refuses to change their plans for
anyone else
mull verb [ T ]
to heat wine or beer with added sugar and spices
mulled wine
mull sth over phrasal verb [ M ]
to think carefully about something for a long time
I need a few days to mull things over before I decide if I'm taking the job.
mullah noun [ C ]
an Islamic religious teacher or leader
mullered adjective UK SLANG
drunk
mullet noun [ C ] FISH
1. a small sea fish that can be cooked and eaten
red mullet
mullet noun [ C ] HAIR
2. INFORMAL a men's hairstyle from the 1980's in which the hair on top and at the
sides of the head is short and the hair at the back is long
mulligatawny noun [ U ]
a very spicy soup that has curry powder in it
mullioned adjective
(of windows) having vertical sections, usually made of stone, between the glass
parts
mullioned adjective
(of windows) having vertical sections, usually made of stone, between the glass
parts
multi- prefix
having many
a multi-coloured skirt (= a skirt with many colours)
a multi-vitamin tablet (= a pill which contains several vitamins)
multicellular adjective SPECIALIZED
A multicellular organism is made of many cells.
Some green algae are multicellular.
Compare unicellular
multicultural adjective
including people who have many different customs and beliefs
Britain is increasingly a multicultural society .
multiculturalism noun [ U ]
the existence of several cultures within a society
multi-dimensional adjective
having many different features
Crime is a multi-dimensional problem.
multi-disciplinary adjective
involving different subjects of study in one activity
a multi-disciplinary course
multi-ethnic adjective
consisting of, or relating to various different races
Britain is a multi-ethnic society , with many black and Asian people.
multi-faceted adjective
having many different parts
It's a multi-faceted business, offering a range of services.
multifarious adjective FORMAL
of many different types
The newspaper report detailed the fraudster's multifarious business activities.
multigym noun [ C ] UK
a machine on which you can do several different exercises to keep your body fit,
or a room in which several different exercise machines can be used
multilateral adjective
involving more than two groups or countries
Seven countries are taking part in the multilateral talks.
Compare bilateral ; unilateral
multilaterally adverb
multilingual adjective
(of people or groups) able to use more than two languages for communication, or
(of a thing) written or spoken in more than two different languages
a multilingual on-line dictionary
Compare bilingual ; monolingual
multimedia adjective [ before noun ]
using a combination of moving and still pictures, sound, music and words,
especially in computers or entertainment
multimedia software
multimedia noun [ U ]
multimillionaire noun [ C ]
a person who has money and property worth several million pounds or dollars
multinational adjective
involving several different countries, or (of a business) producing and selling
goods in several different countries
The UN has sent a multinational peace-keeping force.
a major multinational food company
multinational noun [ C ]
a large and powerful company that produces and sells goods in many different
countries
Are multinationals now more powerful than governments?
multiple adjective
very many of the same type, or of different types
The youth died of multiple burns.
We made multiple copies of the report.
These children have multiple (= many different) handicaps.
multiple noun [ C ] NUMBER
1. a number that can be divided by a smaller number an exact number of times
18 is a multiple of 3, because 18 = 3 x 6.
multiple noun [ C ] LARGE COMPANY
2. a large company which has shops in many towns
ˌ multiple ˈ birth noun [ C ]
when more than two babies are born to the same woman on one occasion
multilateral adjective
involving more than two groups or countries
Seven countries are taking part in the multilateral talks.
Compare bilateral ; unilateral
multilaterally adverb
multilingual adjective
(of people or groups) able to use more than two languages for communication, or
(of a thing) written or spoken in more than two different languages
a multilingual on-line dictionary
Compare bilingual ; monolingual
multimedia adjective [ before noun ]
using a combination of moving and still pictures, sound, music and words,
especially in computers or entertainment
multimedia software
multimedia noun [ U ]
multimillionaire noun [ C ]
a person who has money and property worth several million pounds or dollars
multinational adjective
involving several different countries, or (of a business) producing and selling
goods in several different countries
The UN has sent a multinational peace-keeping force.
a major multinational food company
multinational noun [ C ]
a large and powerful company that produces and sells goods in many different
countries
Are multinationals now more powerful than governments?
multiple adjective
very many of the same type, or of different types
The youth died of multiple burns.
We made multiple copies of the report.
These children have multiple (= many different) handicaps.
multiple noun [ C ] NUMBER
1. a number that can be divided by a smaller number an exact number of times
18 is a multiple of 3, because 18 = 3 x 6.
multiple noun [ C ] LARGE COMPANY
2. a large company which has shops in many towns
ˌ multiple ˈ birth noun [ C ]
when more than two babies are born to the same woman on one occasion
multiple-choice adjective [ before noun ]
describes an examination or question in which you are given a list of answers and
you have to choose the correct one
a multiple-choice test
ˌ multiple scle ˈ rosis noun [ U ] ( ABBREVIATION MS )
a disease in which the covering of the nerves gradually becomes destroyed,
damaging a person's speech and sight and ability to move
multiplex noun [ C ]
a very large cinema that has a lot of separate cinemas inside it
multipli ˈ cation ˌ table noun [ C ]
a list that shows the results of multiplying one number by a set of other numbers,
usually from one to twelve, used especially by children at school
multiplicity noun [ U ] FORMAL
a large number or wide range (of something)
There is a multiplicity of fashion magazines to choose from.
multiply verb [ I or T ]
to increase very much in number, or (in mathematics) to add a number to itself a
particular number of times
In warm weather these germs multiply rapidly.
If you multiply seven by 15 you get 105.
Compare add ; divide ; subtract
multiplication noun [ U ]
multipurpose adjective
describes a tool, etc. that can be used in several different ways
a multipurpose hall
multiracial adjective
involving people of several different races
a multiracial school
South Africa's first multiracial elections took place in 1994.
multi-storey adjective ( US multistory )
describes a building with several floors
a multi-storey car park
US a multistory apartment block
multi-storey noun [ C ] UK
a multi-storey car park
I left the car in the multi-storey.
multitasking noun [ U ] PERSON
1. a person's ability to do more than one thing at a time
Women are often very good at multitasking.
multitasking noun [ U ] COMPUTER
2. the ability of a computer to operate several programs at one time
The machine allows multitasking without the need to buy extra hardware.
mutitask verb [ I ]
multitasking noun [ U ] PERSON
1. a person's ability to do more than one thing at a time
Women are often very good at multitasking.
multitasking noun [ U ] COMPUTER
2. the ability of a computer to operate several programs at one time
The machine allows multitasking without the need to buy extra hardware.
mutitask verb [ I ]
multitude noun FORMAL
1. a multitude of
a large number of people or things
The city has a multitude of problems, from homelessness to drugs and murder.
This case has raised a multitude of questions.
2. the multitude
a large crowd of people
He stepped out onto the balcony to address the multitude below.
3. the ˈ multitudes
large numbers of people
the multitudes using the Internet
4. the ordinary people who form the largest group in a society
cover/hide a multitude of sins HUMOROUS
to prevent people from seeing or discovering something bad
Large sweaters are warm and practical and hide a multitude of sins.
mum noun [ C ] UK ( US mom )
mother
INFORMAL
[ as form of address ] "Happy birthday, Mum."
All the mums and dads are invited to the school play at the end of the year.
Mum's the word. SAYING OLD-FASHIONED
said when you tell someone, or agree with someone, to keep something a secret
"I'm not telling people generally yet." "OK, mum's the word!"
mum adjective INFORMAL
keep mum
to say nothing about a subject
It's not official yet so keep mum.
mumble verb [ I or T ]
to speak quietly and in a way that is not clear so that the words are difficult to
understand
She mumbled something about being too busy.
[ + speech ] "I'm sorry, " he mumbled.
mumbo jumbo noun [ U ] INFORMAL
words or activities that are unnecessarily complicated or mysterious and seem to
have no meaning
You don't believe in horoscopes and all that mumbo jumbo, do you?
mumbo jumbo noun [ U ] INFORMAL
words or activities that are unnecessarily complicated or mysterious and seem to
have no meaning
You don't believe in horoscopes and all that mumbo jumbo, do you?
mummify verb [ T ]
to preserve a dead body as a mummy
mummy noun [ C ] MOTHER
1. UK ( US mommy ) mother
[ as form of address ] I want to go home, Mummy.
Could I speak to your mummy please, Phoebe?
mummy noun [ C ] BODY
2. (especially in ancient Egypt) a dead body that is prevented from decaying by
being treated with special substances before being wrapped in cloth
mummy's boy noun [ C usually singular ] DISAPPROVING UK ( US mama's boy )
a boy or man who appears to do whatever his mother tells him to
mumps noun [ U ]
an infectious disease that causes painful swelling in the neck and slight fever
mumsy adjective UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
describes a woman with an old-fashioned appearance, like that of a traditional
mother
As she became more successful, she changed her mumsy hairstyle for something
more glamorous.
munch verb [ I or T ]
to eat something, especially noisily
He was munching on an apple.
We watched her munch her way through two packets of peanuts.
munch noun [ U ] UK INFORMAL
food
Shall we get some munch, then?
munchies plural noun
1. MAINLY US INFORMAL small light things to eat
We need a few munchies - some peanuts and crackers.
2. the ˈ munchies INFORMAL
feelings of hunger
I 've got the munchies.
munchies plural noun

1. MAINLY US INFORMAL small light things to eat
We need a few munchies - some peanuts and crackers.
2. the ˈ munchies INFORMAL
feelings of hunger
I 've got the munchies.
mundane adjective
very ordinary and therefore not interesting
Mundane matters such as paying bills and shopping for food do not interest her.
mung bean noun [ C ]
a small bean which is often used in Chinese cooking and is eaten when it has
grown long shoots
municipal adjective
of or belonging to a town or city
municipal authorities
municipal tennis courts
municipal elections
municipality noun [ C ]
a city or town with its own local government, or the local government itself
The municipality provides services such as electricity, water and rubbish
collection.
munificent adjective FORMAL
very generous with money
A former student has donated a munificent sum of money to the college.
munificence noun [ U ]
I thanked them for their munificence.
munitions plural noun
military weapons such as guns and bombs
The army used precision-guided munitions to blow up enemy targets.
a munitions depot
a munitions factory
muppet noun [ C ] UK
INFORMAL a stupid person
mural noun [ C ]
a large picture that has been painted on the wall of a room or building
mural noun [ C ]
a large picture that has been painted on the wall of a room or building
murder noun [ C or U ]
the crime of intentionally killing a person
Two sisters have been charged with (= officially accused of) murder.
There were three murders in the town last year.
The three were convicted of (= proved guilty of) murder.
a murder weapon (= a weapon used to commit a murder)
Compare manslaughter ; suicide
be murder INFORMAL
to be very difficult to do
It's murder find ing a parking space in town.
murder verb [ T ]
1. to commit the crime of intentionally killing a person
Her husband was murdered by gunmen as she watched.
In the last year, terrorists have murdered several local journalists.
2. UK INFORMAL If you say you will or could murder someone, it means you are
very angry with them
If he's late again, I'll murder him!
could murder sth UK INFORMAL
If you say you could murder a type of food or drink, it means you would like to
have it now
I could murder a cup of tea!
murderer noun [ C ] ( OLD-FASHIONED FEMALE murderess )
someone who illegally and intentionally kills another person
A convicted murderer was executed in North Carolina yesterday.
a mass murderer (= someone who has killed a large number of people illegally)
murderous adjective
1. extremely dangerous and likely to commit murder
He was a murderous gangster.
She gave me a look of murderous hatred.
2. INFORMAL extremely unpleasant
The traffic was murderous today.
murk noun [ U ]
darkness or thick cloud, preventing you from seeing clearly
It was foggy and the sun shone feebly through the murk.
murk noun [ U ]
darkness or thick cloud, preventing you from seeing clearly
It was foggy and the sun shone feebly through the murk.
murky adjective DARK/DIRTY
1. dark and dirty or difficult to see through
The river was brown and murky after the storm.
murky adjective UNPLEASANT SITUATION
2. describes a situation that is complicated and unpleasant, and about which
many facts are not clear
He became involved in the murky world of international drug-dealing.
I don't want to get into the murky waters of family arguments.
murmur verb SPEAK QUIETLY
1. [ I or T ] to speak or say very quietly
[ + speech ] "I love you," she murmured.
He was murmuring to him self .
HUMOROUS He murmured sweet nothings (= romantic talk) in her ear.
murmur verb COMPLAIN
2. [ I ] to complain about something that you disagree with or dislike, but not in a
public way
They were murmuring about the boss's nephew getting the job.
murmur noun SOUND
1. [ C ] the sound of something being said very quietly
A murmur of agreement came from the crowd.
2. [ S ] a soft continuous sound
The murmur of the waves on the beach lulled me to sleep.
murmur noun COMPLAINT
3. [ C ] a complaint which is expressed privately
After the report was published, there were murmurs of discontent round the
office.
without a murmur
without even a small complaint
For once the children went to bed without a murmur.
Murphy's law noun [ U ] ( UK OFFENSIVE ALSO Sod's law ) HUMOROUS
the principle that if it is possible for something to go wrong, it will go wrong
The bus is always late but today when I was late it came on time - that's Murphy's
law I suppose!
muscle noun BODY PART
1. [ C or U ] one of many tissues in the body that can tighten and relax to
produce movement
neck/back/leg/stomach muscles
facial muscles
bulging/rippling (= large and clear to see) muscles
He flexed his muscles (= tightened, especially his arm muscles, to make them
look large and strong) so that everyone could admire them.
These exercises build muscle and increase stamina.
a muscle spasm (= a sudden uncontrollable tightening movement)
2. pull a muscle
to injure a muscle by stretching it too far so that it is very painful
Russell pulled a back muscle early in the game.
muscle noun POWER
3. [ U ] the power to do difficult things or to make people behave in a certain way
This magazine has considerable financial muscle and can afford to pay top
journalists.
The company lacks the marketing muscle to compete with drug giants.
muscle verb
muscle in phrasal verb INFORMAL
to force your way into a situation and make certain you are included, although
you are not wanted
I hear Mark's muscled in on our meeting.
muscle noun BODY PART

1. [ C or U ] one of many tissues in the body that can tighten and relax to
produce movement
neck/back/leg/stomach muscles
facial muscles
bulging/rippling (= large and clear to see) muscles
He flexed his muscles (= tightened, especially his arm muscles, to make them
look large and strong) so that everyone could admire them.
These exercises build muscle and increase stamina.
a muscle spasm (= a sudden uncontrollable tightening movement)
2. pull a muscle
to injure a muscle by stretching it too far so that it is very painful
Russell pulled a back muscle early in the game.
muscle noun POWER
3. [ U ] the power to do difficult things or to make people behave in a certain way
This magazine has considerable financial muscle and can afford to pay top
journalists.
The company lacks the marketing muscle to compete with drug giants.
muscle verb
muscle in phrasal verb INFORMAL
to force your way into a situation and make certain you are included, although
you are not wanted
I hear Mark's muscled in on our meeting.
muscle-bound adjective DISAPPROVING
describes someone who has a lot of very large firm muscles which makes it
difficult for them to move normally
muscle-flexing noun [ U ]
a public show of military or political power that is intended to worry an opponent
Opposition groups fear violence, after weeks of military muscle-flexing from the
government.
muscleman noun [ C ]
a man who has very large muscles as a result of doing special exercises to
improve them
muscly adjective INFORMAL
having a lot of well-developed muscles
She's got big, muscly legs.
Muscovite noun [ C ]
a person from Moscow
muscular adjective BODY
1. related to muscles
muscular contractions
muscular pain
2. having well-developed muscles
muscular arms/legs
He wished he was more muscular.
muscular adjective POWERFUL
3. powerful
It was a muscular, hard-hitting documentary.
muscular dystrophy noun [ U ]
a serious disease in which a person's muscles gradually become weaker until
walking is no longer possible
musculature noun [ U ]
the position and structure of the muscles
By looking at the bones of this animal, we can discover quite a lot about its
musculature.
musculature noun [ U ]
the position and structure of the muscles
By looking at the bones of this animal, we can discover quite a lot about its
musculature.
muse verb [ I ] FORMAL
to think about something carefully and for a long time
I began to muse about/on the possibility of starting my own business.
muse noun [ C ] LITERARY
an imaginary being or force that gives someone ideas and helps them to write,
paint or make music
The muse has left me - I haven't written any poetry for months!
Juliet was not only the painter's best model but also his muse (= the person who
causes him to have the most ideas for his work) .
Muse noun [ C ] LITERARY
in ancient Greek and Roman stories, one of the nine goddesses who were believed
to give encouragement in different areas of literature, art and music
museum noun [ C ]
a building where objects of historical, scientific or artistic interest are kept
a museum of modern art
the Natural History Museum
mu ˈ seum ˌ piece noun [ C ] HUMOROUS
something that is very old-fashioned and should no longer be used
That old car is a museum piece - you should get a new one.
mush noun [ U ] SUBSTANCE
1. INFORMAL any unpleasant thick soft substance, such as food that has been
cooked for too long
If you overcook the cabbage it'll turn to mush.
mush noun [ U ] BRAIN
2. If you say your brain has turned to mush it means you cannot think clearly.
mush noun [ U ] BOOK/FILM
3. INFORMAL If you describe something such as a book or film as mush, you mean
that it is unpleasantly emotional
The film was just romantic mush.
mushroom , noun [ C ]
mushroom
a fungus with a round top and short stem. Some types of mushroom can be eaten
wild /cultivated mushrooms
button (= very small) mushrooms
dried/grilled/stuffed/sliced mushrooms
cream of mushroom soup
For this recipe choose mushrooms with large caps (= top parts) .
Unfortunately some poisonous mushrooms look like edible mushrooms.
Compare toadstool
See also picture vegetables 2
mushroom , verb [ I ]
to increase very quickly
The number of computers in schools has mushroomed in recent years.
mushroom
Compare toadstool
ˈ mushroom ˌ cloud noun [ C usually singular ]
a very large cloud of dust that rises into the air in the shape of a large mushroom,
especially after a nuclear explosion
The mushroom cloud over Hiroshima is a horrific image of war.
mushy adjective SOFT
1. soft and having no firm shape
Cook the lentils until they are mushy.
DISAPPROVING The meat was mushy and tasteless.
mushy adjective EMOTIONAL
2. INFORMAL DISAPPROVING too emotional
I hate those mushy love stories.
ˌ mushy ˈ peas plural noun UK
soft, cooked marrowfat peas (= a type of large pea)
music noun [ U ]
1. a pattern of sounds made by musical instruments, singing or computers, or a
combination of these, intended to give pleasure to people listening to it
classical/pop/dance/rock music
a beautiful piece of music
What sort of music do you listen to?
They play good music (= recordings of music) on this (radio) station.
I just like making music (= playing music or singing) .
Shall I put on some music (= play a recording) ?
2. the art or study of music
I studied music at college.
the music business/industry
music lessons
3. the written system of symbols representing musical notes
Can you read music?
be music to sb's ears
to be something that you are very pleased to hear
The rattle of the letterbox was music to my ears - the letter had arrived at last.
musical adjective
1. related to or connected with music
musical instruments
Mozart's musical compositions include symphonies and operas.
2. If you are musical, you have a skill in or great liking for music
The family all play instruments - they're all very musical.
musically adverb
It's a school for musically gifted children (= those who are very good at playing a
musical instrument or singing) .
Musically speaking (= referring to the music they produce) , this band has a lot of
talent.
musical noun [ C ]
a play or film in which part of the story is sung to music
mushroom
Compare toadstool
ˈ mushroom ˌ cloud noun [ C usually singular ]
a very large cloud of dust that rises into the air in the shape of a large mushroom,
especially after a nuclear explosion
The mushroom cloud over Hiroshima is a horrific image of war.
mushy adjective SOFT
1. soft and having no firm shape
Cook the lentils until they are mushy.
DISAPPROVING The meat was mushy and tasteless.
mushy adjective EMOTIONAL
2. INFORMAL DISAPPROVING too emotional
I hate those mushy love stories.
ˌ mushy ˈ peas plural noun UK
soft, cooked marrowfat peas (= a type of large pea)
music noun [ U ]
1. a pattern of sounds made by musical instruments, singing or computers, or a
combination of these, intended to give pleasure to people listening to it
classical/pop/dance/rock music
a beautiful piece of music
What sort of music do you listen to?
They play good music (= recordings of music) on this (radio) station.
I just like making music (= playing music or singing) .
Shall I put on some music (= play a recording) ?
2. the art or study of music
I studied music at college.
the music business/industry
music lessons
3. the written system of symbols representing musical notes
Can you read music?
be music to sb's ears
to be something that you are very pleased to hear
The rattle of the letterbox was music to my ears - the letter had arrived at last.
musical adjective
1. related to or connected with music
musical instruments
Mozart's musical compositions include symphonies and operas.
2. If you are musical, you have a skill in or great liking for music
The family all play instruments - they're all very musical.
musically adverb
It's a school for musically gifted children (= those who are very good at playing a
musical instrument or singing) .
Musically speaking (= referring to the music they produce) , this band has a lot of
talent.
musical noun [ C ]
a play or film in which part of the story is sung to music
ˈ musical ˌ box noun [ C ] UK ( US music box )
a decorative box with a device inside it that plays a tune when you open the lid
ˌ musical ˈ chairs plural noun
a game in which children walk around a group of chairs while music plays. When
the music stops they have to sit quickly on a chair, but because there is always one
fewer chairs than children, the child that is left standing must leave the game
FIGURATIVE It's a game of musical chairs (= a situation in which people change jobs
often) as editors move from one newspaper to another.
musicality noun [ U ]
skill and good judgment in playing music
Her natural musicality made this one of the most enjoyable concerts of the year.
musicality noun [ U ]
skill and good judgment in playing music
Her natural musicality made this one of the most enjoyable concerts of the year.
ˈ music ˌ box noun [ C ]
US FOR musical box
ˈ music ˌ centre noun [ C ]
UK OLD-FASHIONED FOR music system
ˈ music ˌ hall noun [ C or U ] UK ( US ALSO vaudeville )
a type of theatre entertainment in the 1800s and 1900s which included music,
dancing and jokes, or the building used for this entertainment
musician noun [ C ]
someone who is skilled in playing music, usually as their job
The concert features dancers, singers and musicians of all nationalities.
musicianship noun [ U ]
a person's skill in playing a musical instrument or singing
The sheer musicianship of this young woman is breathtaking.
music-making noun [ U ]
the playing or writing of music
His compositions were influenced by the great tradition of music-making in that
country.
musicology noun [ U ]
the study of the history, theory and science of music
musicologist noun [ C ]
Arvinda is a respected musicologist.
ˈ music ˌ system noun [ C ]
a collection of equipment for playing recorded sound
ˈ music ˌ theatre noun [ C or U ]
a type of theatre involving acting and music, performed by a small number of
people
ˈ music ˌ theatre noun [ C or U ]
a type of theatre involving acting and music, performed by a small number of
people
musk noun [ U ]
a substance with a strong sweet smell, used in making perfumes
musky adjective
Her skin had a warm musky odour.
musket noun [ C ]
a gun with a long barrel , used in the past
Muslim noun [ C ] ( ALSO Moslem )
a person who follows the religion of Islam
Muslim adjective
describes people who follow the religion of Islam
a Muslim country/state
a Muslim family
muslin noun [ U ]
a very thin cotton material
A 19th-century painting of a girl in a muslin dress hung on the wall.
The soured milk is strained through muslin to leave a soft ball of cheese ready to
be shaped.
muso noun [ C ] UK INFORMAL
someone who likes popular music very much and knows a lot about it, often
having a lot of musical equipment
muss verb [ T ] MAINLY US
to make untidy
The wind is mussing (up) my hair.
muss noun US
no muss, no fuss
used to say that something can be done without a lot of difficulty
If we pack tonight, we can leave first thing in the morning - no muss, no fuss.
mussel noun [ C ]
a small sea animal that can be eaten and which lives inside a black shell with two
parts that close tightly together
mussel noun [ C ]
a small sea animal that can be eaten and which lives inside a black shell with two
parts that close tightly together
must , , modal verb NECESSARY
1. used to show that it is necessary or very important that something happens in
the present or future
Meat must be cooked thoroughly.
I must get some sleep.
You mustn't show this letter to anyone else.
Luggage must not be left unattended (= it is against the rules) .
FORMAL Must you leave so soon?
FORMAL "Must I sign this?" "No, there's no need."
2. If you say that you must do something, you mean that you have a definite
intention to do something in the future
I must phone my sister.
We must get someone to fix that wheel.
I mustn't bite my nails.
3. used for emphasis
I must say , you're looking extremely well.
I must admit , I wasn't looking forward to it.
4. If you tell someone else that they must do something pleasant, you are
emphasizing that you think it is a good idea for them to do that
You must come and stay with us for the weekend.
We must meet for lunch soon.
must , , modal verb PROBABLY
5. used to show that something is very likely, probable or certain to be true
Harry's been driving all day - he must be tired.
There's no food left - we must have eaten it all.
When you got lost in the forest you must have been very frightened.
"You must know Frank." "No, I don't."
must , , noun [ C ] INFORMAL
something which is necessary
If you live in the country a car is a must.
must- prefix INFORMAL
a must-do/-have/-see, etc.
something that is so good, you must do it, have it or see it
The cashmere scarf is this season's must-have.
It's a moderately entertaining film but it's certainly not a must-see.
mustache noun [ C ]
US FOR moustache
mustache noun [ C ]
US FOR moustache
mustachio noun [ C ] OLD-FASHIONED
a large moustache (= line of hair above the upper lip) with curly ends
mustachioed adjective MAINLY HUMOROUS
having a large moustache (= line of hair above the upper lip)
a mustachioed gentleman
mustang noun [ C ]
an American wild horse
mustard noun [ U ]
a thick yellow or brown sauce that tastes spicy and is eaten cold in small
amounts, especially with meat
ˈ mustard ˌ gas noun [ U ]
a very poisonous gas, used as a weapon, that burns the skin, damages organs
inside the body and can kill
muster verb [ I or T ] PRODUCE
1. to produce or encourage especially an emotion or support
She managed to muster the courage to ask him to the cinema.
The team will need all the strength they can muster to win this game.
Opponents are unlikely to be able to muster enough votes to override the veto.
muster verb [ I or T ] TOGETHER
2. (especially of soldiers) to come together, especially in preparation for fighting,
or to cause to do this
The twelfth division mustered on the hill.
The general mustered his troops .
muster your forces FORMAL
to make great arrangements and efforts, usually to prepare for an attack or event
The Welsh National Opera has mustered its forces to mount its second production
of Tristan in only 14 years.
muster sth up phrasal verb
If you muster up a feeling of bravery or energy, you try hard to find that quality
in yourself because you need it in order to do something
[ + to infinitive ] She finally mustered up the courage to ask him for more money.
muster noun [ C ]
a group of people, especially soldiers, who have been brought together
ˈ muster ˌ point noun [ C ] ( ALSO muster station ) UK
a place where everyone in an area or on a boat is ordered to go when there is an
emergency
ˈ muster ˌ point noun [ C ] ( ALSO muster station ) UK
a place where everyone in an area or on a boat is ordered to go when there is an
emergency
must-have adjective [ before noun ]
A must-have object is something that many people want to own
The iPod quickly established itself as a must-have electronics device.
mustn't short form
must not
You mustn't worry too much about this.
musty adjective
smelling unpleasantly old and slightly wet
musty old books
a musty smell
a musty room
mutant noun [ C ]
1. an organism that is different from others of its type because of a permanent
change in its genes
These mutants lack a vital protein which gives them immunity to the disease.
This mutant gene is thought to cause cancer.
FIGURATIVE HUMOROUS I'm convinced he's a mutant - he's not a bit like the rest of
our family!
2. DISAPPROVING an unpleasant and frightening thing
The result of these experiments will be a nightmarish world filled with two-headed
monsters and other mutants.
mutate verb [ I ]
1. to develop new physical characteristics because of a permanent change in the
genes . These changes can happen naturally or can be produced by the use of chemicals
or radiation
These bacteria have mutated into forms that are resistant to certain drugs.
2. to change from one thing or type of thing into another
Jon has mutated from an awkward teenager into a sophisticated young man.
mutation noun
1. [ U ] the way in which genes change and produce permanent differences
It is well known that radiation can cause mutation.
2. [ C ] a permanent change in an organism, or the changed organism itself
Environmental pressures encourage genes with certain mutations to persist and
others to die out.
These plants carry the mutation for red flowers.
mute adjective
(of a person) unable or unwilling to speak, or (of an activity) silent
a mute child
The president has remained mute about plans to curtail the number of
immigrants.
I gazed at her in mute (= silent) admiration.
mute noun [ C ]
1. a button or other device on a musical instrument that can be fixed in order to
make it quieter
2. OLD-FASHIONED OFFENSIVE a person who is not able to speak
mute verb [ T ]
If you mute a noise, you do something to make it less loud
Double glazing muted the noise of the traffic.
mute adjective
(of a person) unable or unwilling to speak, or (of an activity) silent
a mute child
The president has remained mute about plans to curtail the number of
immigrants.
I gazed at her in mute (= silent) admiration.
mute noun [ C ]
1. a button or other device on a musical instrument that can be fixed in order to
make it quieter
2. OLD-FASHIONED OFFENSIVE a person who is not able to speak
mute verb [ T ]
If you mute a noise, you do something to make it less loud
Double glazing muted the noise of the traffic.
muted adjective NOT LOUD
1. not loud
There was polite, muted applause when I finished speaking.
muted adjective NOT ENTHUSIASTIC
2. showing little enthusiasm
The idea received a muted response.
muted adjective NOT BRIGHT
3. describes a colour which is not bright
She was dressed in muted shades of blue.
ˌ mute ˈ swan noun [ C ]
the largest type of swan, which makes no cries when flying
mutilate verb [ T ]
1. to damage severely, especially by violently removing a part
Her body had been mutilated beyond recognition.
Self-hatred apparently drove her to mutilate her own face.
2. to destroy an idea or a piece of art or entertainment
They have mutilated a beautiful film by making these changes.
mutilation noun [ C or U ]
He admitted to the murder and mutilation of between 12 and 16 young men.
mutineer noun [ C ]
someone who takes part in a mutiny
mutiny noun [ C or U ]
when a group of people, especially soldiers or sailors, refuse to obey orders
and/or attempt to take control from people in authority
Conditions on the ship were often very bad, and crews were on the point of
mutiny.
There were rumours of mutiny among the troops.
Soldiers and police killed 250-300 prisoners while crushing mutinies in three jails.
mutinous adjective
The mutinous sailors took control of the ship.
mutiny verb [ I ]
to take part in a mutiny
The crew mutinied and murdered the ship's captain.
The troops mutinied against their officers.
mutt noun [ C ] PERSON
1. MAINLY US INFORMAL a person who behaves in a silly or careless way
Come on you mutts, play harder!
mutt noun [ C ] DOG
2. MAINLY US a mongrel
mutt noun [ C ] DOG
mutter verb [ I or T ]
to speak quietly and in a low voice that is not easy to hear, often when you are
worried or complaining about something
Stop muttering and speak up!
He was muttering (away) to himself.
Laurence muttered something about his wife and left.
He muttered something under his breath to the person next to him.
mutter noun QUIET WORDS
1. [ S ] (the sound of) words being said very quietly
I heard the soft mutter of voices in the next room.
mutter noun COMPLAINT
2. [ C ] a complaint which is made privately
There were mutters that other departments received more money than ours.
mutterings plural noun
complaints which are made privately
There are mutterings of discontent among the staff.
mutton noun [ U ]
the meat from an adult sheep eaten as food
mutton dressed as lamb UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
a way of describing an older woman who is dressed in a style that is more suitable
for a younger woman
Do you think this dress is too young-looking for me? - I don't want to look like
mutton dressed as lamb.
muttonchops plural noun ( ALSO muttonchop whiskers )
long hair growing down each side of a man's face, fashionable especially in Europe
and America in the 19th century
mutual adjective
(of two or more people or groups) feeling the same emotion, or doing the same
thing to or for each other
Theirs was a partnership based on mutual respect, trust and understanding.
Both countries are acting to their mutual advantage.
The agreement was terminated by mutual consent.
ˌ mutual ˈ friend noun [ C ]
a person who is the friend of two people who may or may not know each other
Lynn and Phil met through a mutual friend.

mutt noun [ C ] DOG
mutter verb [ I or T ]
to speak quietly and in a low voice that is not easy to hear, often when you are
worried or complaining about something
Stop muttering and speak up!
He was muttering (away) to himself.
Laurence muttered something about his wife and left.
He muttered something under his breath to the person next to him.
mutter noun QUIET WORDS
1. [ S ] (the sound of) words being said very quietly
I heard the soft mutter of voices in the next room.
mutter noun COMPLAINT
2. [ C ] a complaint which is made privately
There were mutters that other departments received more money than ours.
mutterings plural noun
complaints which are made privately
There are mutterings of discontent among the staff.
mutton noun [ U ]
the meat from an adult sheep eaten as food
mutton dressed as lamb UK INFORMAL DISAPPROVING
a way of describing an older woman who is dressed in a style that is more suitable
for a younger woman
Do you think this dress is too young-looking for me? - I don't want to look like
mutton dressed as lamb.
muttonchops plural noun ( ALSO muttonchop whiskers )
long hair growing down each side of a man's face, fashionable especially in Europe
and America in the 19th century
mutual adjective
(of two or more people or groups) feeling the same emotion, or doing the same
thing to or for each other
Theirs was a partnership based on mutual respect, trust and understanding.
Both countries are acting to their mutual advantage.
The agreement was terminated by mutual consent.
ˌ mutual ˈ friend noun [ C ]
a person who is the friend of two people who may or may not know each other
Lynn and Phil met through a mutual friend.
ˈ mutual ˌ fund noun [ C usually singular ]
US FOR unit trust
mutually adverb
felt or done by two or more people or groups in the same way
It will be a mutually beneficial project.
Being rich and being a Socialist are not mutually exclusive (= they can exist
together at the same time) .
Muzak noun [ U ] TRADEMARK
recorded music that is played quietly and continuously in public places, such as
airports, hotels and shops, to make people feel relaxed
muzzle noun [ C ] ANIMAL
1. the mouth and nose of an animal, especially a dog, or a covering put over this
in order to prevent the animal from biting
See picture muzzle
muzzle noun [ C ] GUN
2. the end of a gun barrel , where the bullets come out
See picture muzzle
muzzle verb [ T ] ANIMAL
1. to put a muzzle on an animal
Dangerous dogs should be muzzled.
muzzle verb [ T ] STOP OPINIONS
2. to stop a person or organization from expressing independent opinions
The new Secrecy Act will muzzle the media and the opposition.
muzzy adjective UK
(of a person) confused and unable to think clearly because of tiredness, illness,
alcohol or drugs, or (of a situation, plans, language, etc.) not clear or well explained
Feeling muzzy from the blow on his head, he got up very slowly.
Until a week ago, the group's objectives were slightly muzzy.
muzzily adverb
muzziness noun [ U ]
MW noun [ U ]
WRITTEN ABBREVIATION FOR medium wave
MWA noun [ C ]
ABBREVIATION FOR Member of the Welsh Assembly
my determiner
1. of or belonging to me (= the speaker or writer)
my parents
my feet
my name
my jacket
It wasn't my fault.
FORMAL She was rather surprised at my ask ing (= that I asked) for the book to be
returned.
See also I ; me ; mine
2. my own
used to emphasize that something belongs to or is connected with me and no one
else
I want my own car.
It was my own decision.
This cake is all my own work (= I made it without help) .
3. used in front of a noun as a way of expressing love or as a polite or humorous
form of address
My darling!
Do you want any help, my dear?
4. relating to a part of some websites where you can choose to see only the
information that is important to you
my exclamation OLD-FASHIONED
used to express surprise or pleasure
My, what delicious food!
My, oh, my, what a busy day!
myalgic encephalomyelitis noun [ U ]
UK SPECIALIZED FOR chronic fatigue syndrome
myalgic encephalomyelitis noun [ U ]
UK SPECIALIZED FOR chronic fatigue syndrome
Myanmar noun [ U ]
mycology noun [ U ]
the scientific study of fungi
mycologist noun [ C ]
myelin noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
a substance containing a lot of fat that forms a protective covering around nerves,
especially those in the brain, and helps them to send signals efficiently
The myelin sheath around the neuron is damaged.
mynah (bird) noun [ C ] ( AUSTRALIAN Indian mynah )
a black or dark brown bird from Asia, some types of which can copy human
speech
MYOB
ABBREVIATION FOR mind your own business: used in emails and text messages to
say that you do not want to talk about something
myopia noun [ U ] SPECIALIZED
when someone cannot see things that are far away clearly
myopic adjective
1. SPECIALIZED not able to see clearly things that are far away
2. DISAPPROVING unable to understand a situation or the way actions will affect it in
the future
Their myopic refusal to act now will undoubtedly cause problems in the future.
myriad noun [ C ] LITERARY
a very large number of something
a myriad of choices
And now myriads of bars and hotels are opening up along the coast.
myriad adjective
They offered no solution for all our myriad problems.
myrrh noun [ U ]
a sticky brown substance with a strong smell which is used in making perfume
and incense
myrrh noun [ U ]
a sticky brown substance with a strong smell which is used in making perfume
and incense
myrtle noun [ C ]
a small tree with shiny green leaves, pleasant-smelling white flowers and blue-
black fruit
myself pronoun
1. the reflexive pronoun of I
I've bought myself a new coat.
I caught sight of myself in the mirror.
Yes, I thought to myself, it's time to take a holiday.
2. used to emphasize 'I' as the subject of a sentence
I myself don't like a heavy meal at lunchtime.
I don't like a heavy meal at lunchtime myself.
I had to do the whole job by myself (= with no help from other people) .
I live by myself (= alone) .
I never get an hour to myself (= for my own use) .
3. used instead of 'I' or 'me'
My husband and myself were delighted with the gift.
They very kindly invited my sister and myself to the inauguration.
in myself UK INFORMAL
used when describing your state of mind when you are physically ill
I'm well enough in myself (= happy) - I've just got this nagging headache.
MySpace noun [ C ] TRADEMARK
a website where you can show information about yourself, using blogs , photos
and videos
mysterious adjective
strange, not known or not understood
She's an actress whose inner life has remained mysterious, despite the many
interviews she has given.
He died in mysterious circumstances , and there is still a possibility that it was
murder.
mysteriously adverb
"Perhaps, and perhaps not, " she said mysteriously.
Mysteriously, the light came on, although no one was near the switch.
mystery noun STRANGE/UNKNOWN THING
1. [ C or U ] something strange or not known which has not yet been explained or
understood
How the massive stones were brought here from hundreds of miles away
is/remains a mystery.
The mystery was solved when the police discovered the murder weapon.
The book tries to explain some of the mysteries of life.
The details of the scandal remain cloaked/shrouded/wrapped in mystery.
It's a complete mystery ( to me) that/why (= I do not understand why) she
married him at all!
mystery noun BOOK/FILM/PLAY
2. [ C ] a book, film or play, especially about a crime or a murder, with a surprise
ending which explains all the strange events that have happened
I really enjoy murder mysteries.
a mystery writer
mystery noun STRANGE/UNKNOWN THING
1. [ C or U ] something strange or not known which has not yet been explained or
understood
How the massive stones were brought here from hundreds of miles away
is/remains a mystery.
The mystery was solved when the police discovered the murder weapon.
The book tries to explain some of the mysteries of life.
The details of the scandal remain cloaked/shrouded/wrapped in mystery.
It's a complete mystery ( to me) that/why (= I do not understand why) she
married him at all!
mystery noun BOOK/FILM/PLAY
2. [ C ] a book, film or play, especially about a crime or a murder, with a surprise
ending which explains all the strange events that have happened
I really enjoy murder mysteries.
a mystery writer
ˈ mystery ˌ play noun [ C ]
a religious play based on stories from the Bible and performed especially in
Europe between the 11th and 14th centuries
ˌ mystery ˈ shopper noun [ C ] ( US ALSO secret shopper )
someone employed to test the service in shops and businesses by pretending to
be a normal customer
ˈ mystery ˌ tour noun [ C ] UK
a short journey, especially with a group of other people in a bus, to visit places
which are kept secret from you until you get there
mystic noun [ C ]
someone who attempts to be united with God through prayer
mystical adjective ( ALSO mystic )
a mystical religion
mysticism noun [ U ]
the belief that there is hidden meaning in life or that each human being can unite
with God
mystification noun [ U ]
when someone or something confuses you by being impossible to understand
And then, to the audience's mystification, the band suddenly stopped playing.
mystify verb [ T often passive ]
to confuse someone by being or doing something very strange or impossible to
explain
I was mystified by her decision.
Most Americans seem totally mystified by cricket.
mystifying adjective
After ten years her mystifying disappearance was still unexplained.
mystifyingly adverb
mystique noun [ U ] FORMAL
a quality of being special in a mysterious and attractive way
There's great mystique attached to/surrounding the life of a movie star.
Too much publicity has destroyed the mystique of the monarchy.
mystique noun [ U ] FORMAL
a quality of being special in a mysterious and attractive way
There's great mystique attached to/surrounding the life of a movie star.
Too much publicity has destroyed the mystique of the monarchy.
myth noun ANCIENT STORY
1. [ C or U ] an ancient story or set of stories, especially explaining in a literary
way the early history of a group of people or about natural events and facts
ancient myths
The children enjoyed the stories about the gods and goddesses of Greek and
Roman myth.
Most societies have their own creation myths.
myth noun FALSE IDEA
2. [ C + that ] DISAPPROVING a commonly believed but false idea
Statistics disprove the myth that women are worse drivers than men.
mythical adjective ( ALSO mythic )
1. existing only in stories
the mythical island of Atlantis
a mythical hero
dragons and other mythical creatures
2. imaginary or not real
Start living life here and now instead of waiting for that mythical day when you'll
be slim.
mythological adjective
connected with myths
a mythological hero/creature
mythologize MAINLY US , UK USUALLY mythologise verb [ I or T ]
to create a false picture of a situation
People tend to mythologize (about) their youth/the past.
mythology noun [ U ] ANCIENT STORIES
1. myths in general
She's fascinated by the stories of classical mythology (= ancient Greek and
Roman myths) .
mythology noun [ U ] POPULAR BELIEF
2. a popular belief that is probably not true
It's just a piece of popular mythology that people always get sacked when they
are away.
myxomatosis noun [ U ]
an infectious disease of rabbits that usually kills them

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lyricism noun [ U ]

the beautiful expression of personal thoughts and feelings in writing or music

car-/clothes-/sex-, etc. mad

She's sixteen and clothes-mad.

See table of Geographical names .

madam noun WOMAN

1. ( USUALLY Madam ) [ S ] a formal and polite way of speaking to a woman

[ as form of address ] May I carry your cases for you, Madam?

3. [ S ] DISAPPROVING a young girl who behaves like an older woman, expecting

She's turning into a proper little madam.

madam noun SEX

4. [ C ] a woman who is in charge of a group of prostitutes who live or work in the

madcap adjective [ before noun ] OLD-FASHIONED

the madcap antics of the clowns

ˌ mad ˈ cow dis ˌ ease noun [ U ] UK INFORMAL

another name for BSE

to make someone very angry or annoyed

It maddens me to see how unfairly Jon has been treated.

maddened adjective LITERARY

He was standing in the path of the maddened bull.

making you angry

She has a maddening habit of interrupting me when I'm talking to her.

PAST SIMPLE AND PAST PARTICIPLE OF make

He was wearing a suit made from pure silk.

The house was made of wood with an iron roof.

have (got) it made INFORMAL

car-/clothes-/sex-, etc. mad

ˈ Memory ˌ Stick noun [ C ] TRADEMARK

See picture computer

PLURAL OF man (MALE)

1. [ C usually singular ] something that is likely to cause harm

Drunk drivers are a menace to everyone.

Dogs running loose are a public menace.

the menace of industrial pollution

2. [ U ] a dangerous quality that makes you think someone is going to do

He had a slight air of menace which I found unsettling.

He spoke with a hint of menace.

3. [ C ] a person, especially a child, who is very annoying

4. demand money with menaces UK LEGAL

to demand money using threats

He was accused of unlawfully demanding money with menaces.

menace verb [ T ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL

If someone or something menaces a person or thing, they threaten seriously to

Hurricane Hugo menaced the US coast for a week.

menage , ménage noun [ S + sing/pl verb ] FORMAL

a group of people living together in the same house

ménage à trois noun [ C ]

mitigate verb [ T ] FORMAL

mobility noun [ U ] SLIGHTLY FORMAL

mockers plural noun UK INFORMAL

modesty noun [ U ] QUIET SUCCESS

moralize , UK USUALLY moralise verb [ I ] DISAPPROVING

morning-after pill noun [ C usually singular ]

mortal adjective LITERARY

muchness noun UK INFORMAL

muchness noun UK INFORMAL

munchies plural noun

muscle noun BODY PART

mutt noun [ C ] PERSON

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