noun
meaning
What something expresses, signifies, or is intended to convey.
The meaning of this sign is clear to every driver.
Etymology
Mean concerns intending or signifying something. The action noun names the sense or intention conveyed by words, signs, or actions.
More examples
- This word has several meanings, depending on the context.
- I understand the words, but I miss the joke's meaning.
- Her smile gives new meaning to an otherwise ordinary greeting.
Forms
meaning · meanings
mean verb — To express or intend to convey something.
Similar words
- sense
- A particular interpretation of a word, phrase, or statement.
- message
- The main idea someone intends to communicate to others.
- significance
- Often emphasizes what something implies or why it matters.