Fair
/fɛər/
Definitions
4 meaningsTreating people equally and justly.
/fɛər/
Just, impartial, and free from self-interest.
The teacher was fair to all the students.
💡 Simply: Being fair means treating everyone the same way, like when you share your toys equally with your friends. It’s about being nice and not picking favorites!
👶 For kids: When something is fair, it means it's right and everyone gets treated the same.
More Examples
It's important to be fair in a debate.
We should strive for a fair society where everyone has equal opportunities.
How It's Used
"The judge must ensure a fair trial for both sides."
"The company strives for a fair distribution of profits."
Being acceptable or suitable in a given context.
/fɛər/
Reasonable or acceptable.
The weather was fair, so we went for a picnic.
💡 Simply: Something fair is okay and not too bad. Like, "That's a fair amount of pizza for one person!"
👶 For kids: When something is fair, it's okay and not too much or too little.
More Examples
He gave a fair estimate for the repairs.
They had a fair chance of winning.
How It's Used
"That's a fair price for the car."
"We think our offer is fair."
Light in color; pale or blonde.
/fɛər/
Light in color; pale.
The princess had a fair complexion.
💡 Simply: Fair can also mean light-colored, like someone with light skin or light hair. Imagine a princess with fair skin!
👶 For kids: When someone is fair, it can mean they have light skin or hair.
More Examples
She wore a fair wig to the party.
The artist painted a portrait of a woman with fair skin.
How It's Used
"She had fair skin and golden hair."
"The fair maiden in the story was known for her beauty."
A gathering of people for entertainment or commercial purposes.
/fɛər/
A gathering or event.
We went to the state fair and rode the Ferris wheel.
💡 Simply: A fair is a special event where you can play games, eat yummy food, and sometimes see cool things. Imagine going to the carnival!
👶 For kids: A fair is a fun place with games and rides, like a carnival!
More Examples
The art fair displayed many beautiful paintings.
The trade fair attracted many buyers.
How It's Used
"The county fair offered rides and games."
"The trade fair showcased new products."
Synonyms
Equitable
Acceptable
Adequate
Blonde
Carnival
Exhibition
Expo
Idioms & expressions
fair and square
In a just and honest way.
"He won the game fair and square, without cheating."
to be fair
Used to acknowledge the other person's point of view.
"To be fair, she did try her best."
From Old English *fæger* ('beautiful, pleasing'), related to Proto-Germanic *fagraz* ('attractive, beautiful'). The meaning has broadened over time to include 'just', 'reasonable', and 'a gathering'.
The word 'fair' has been used for centuries. In historical texts, it was used to describe physical beauty, just treatment, and gatherings. Its usage is consistent across different periods.
Memory tip
Think of a fair referee in a game – they make sure everyone plays by the rules.