noun / adjective
middle
MID-uhl/ˈmɪdl/
The central portion between two ends.
The arrow strikes the middle of the circular target.
Etymology
Old English middel described something equally distant from its extremes or limits. Used as a noun, it named the point or part occupying that intermediate position—the central portion of something.
In context
around 180 standing stones were put up to make a huge outer loop, along with two smaller loops sitting in the middle.
More examples
- She chooses the middle seat in the back row.
- The belt fits snugly around his middle.
- The bread stays soft in the middle.
Forms
middle · middles
Similar words
- center
- Often identifies a precise point rather than a broader portion.
- midpoint
- Specifically marks the point halfway between two ends.