adjective
mean
Ungenerous in the treatment of others.
It is mean to laugh at someone for making mistakes.
Etymology
The adjective moved from common or low in standing to morally low behavior. Ungenerous treatment is judged as lacking the breadth or kindness expected of better conduct.
More examples
- Her mean comments make the new student feel unwelcome.
- Don't be mean to your brother just because you're tired.
- He keeps all the snacks for himself, which seems mean.
Forms
mean · meaner · meanest
meanness noun — Unkind or ungenerous behavior toward others.