Meaning
/ˈmiːnɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe idea that is represented or expressed by a word, sign, symbol, etc.
/ˈmiːnɪŋ/
What is intended or conveyed by something
I don't understand the meaning of this sentence.
💡 Simply: The meaning of something is like the secret code or message hidden inside. It's what it's *trying* to tell you. For example, the meaning of a red stop sign is that you should stop the car.
👶 For kids: The *meaning* of something is what it says, or what it is supposed to do.
More Examples
The poem's meaning is open to interpretation.
He searched for the meaning of life.
How It's Used
"The meaning of life is a common philosophical question."
"Did you understand the meaning of her message?"
"The word 'happy' has a positive meaning."
To express or represent something, often implicitly.
/ˈmiːnɪŋ/
To have a particular significance or purpose
What does this word mean?
💡 Simply: When something means something, it's like it *stands for* something else. For instance, if you say, 'Rain means the picnic is off,' then the rain represents the change of plans!
👶 For kids: When something *means* something, it says or shows what it is. Rain means we can't go outside.
More Examples
His smile meant he was happy.
This failure means we have to try again.
How It's Used
"What does this symbol mean?"
"His silence meant he disagreed."
"This victory means everything to them."
Idioms & expressions
lose all meaning
To become pointless or lose significance.
"After years of neglect, the traditions lost all meaning."
have the meaning of
To indicate or represent.
"This phrase has the meaning of 'I agree'."
From Middle English menynge, from Old English mænung (sense, meaning), related to mænan (to mean).
The word 'meaning' has been used in its modern sense since the Middle Ages. Initially, it was closely related to 'intention' or 'purpose.'
Memory tip
Think of the "message" the word is trying to convey.