Pronunciation: /ˈmiːnɪŋ/

Definitions of meaning

noun the idea that is represented by a word, concept, or action

Example Sentences

A1 The word 'meaning' refers to the idea or message conveyed by a word, phrase, or action.

A2 In this context, the meaning of the word 'blue' is the color of the sky on a clear day.

B1 Understanding the meaning behind a text requires careful analysis and interpretation.

B2 The deeper meaning of the painting was open to interpretation, sparking lively discussions among art enthusiasts.

C1 The author's use of symbolism added layers of meaning to the novel, enriching the reading experience.

C2 The philosopher delved into the existential meaning of life, exploring profound questions about existence and purpose.

verb not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 I don't understand the meaning of this word.

A2 She is trying to explain the meaning of the poem.

B1 Can you clarify the meaning of this passage for me?

B2 The author's use of symbolism adds depth to the meaning of the story.

C1 Interpreting the meaning of a complex text requires careful analysis.

C2 The artist's work challenges viewers to question the meaning of art itself.

adjective not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 The meaning of the word 'cat' is a small domesticated carnivorous mammal with soft fur.

A2 She tried to explain the meaning of the painting, but I still didn't understand.

B1 The meaning behind his words was clear - he was not happy with the decision.

B2 The meaning of life is a philosophical question that has puzzled humans for centuries.

C1 The deeper meaning of the novel can be interpreted in various ways by different readers.

C2 The artist's work is known for its complex layers of meaning that challenge viewers to think deeply.

adverb not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 She waved at me, meaning she wanted me to come over.

A2 He smiled meaningly, indicating his approval of my idea.

B1 The word 'apple' can have multiple meanings depending on the context.

B2 His actions spoke louder than words, meaning he truly cared for her.

C1 The artist's use of color and light added depth and meaning to the painting.

C2 The novel's intricate plot revealed layers of meaning that kept readers engaged.

pronoun not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 I don't understand the meaning of this word.

A2 She explained the meaning of the symbol to me.

B1 The meaning behind his actions was unclear.

B2 The true meaning of the poem was revealed in the last stanza.

C1 The deeper meaning of the novel can be interpreted in various ways.

C2 The artist's work often delves into the complexities of meaning and perception.

preposition not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 The meaning of the word 'apple' is a type of fruit.

A2 She asked for the meaning of the unfamiliar word.

B1 The meaning behind his actions was unclear.

B2 The painting held a deeper meaning that only a few could understand.

C1 The meaning of life is a philosophical question that has puzzled many thinkers.

C2 The novel delves into the complexities of human existence and the meaning of existence itself.

conjunction not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 I don't understand the meaning of this word.

A2 She explained the meaning of the new rule to me.

B1 The meaning of life is a common philosophical question.

B2 The meaning behind his words was clear to everyone in the room.

C1 The deeper meaning of the painting was open to interpretation.

C2 The true meaning of his actions only became clear years later.

interjection not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 Meaning! I don't understand what you're saying.

A2 Meaning, can you please explain that again in simpler terms?

B1 Meaning, I think you're trying to say something important.

B2 Meaning, the significance of this situation is not clear to me.

C1 Meaning, I need more context to fully grasp the implications of your statement.

C2 Meaning, the depth of your words is truly profound.

article not applicable

Example Sentences

A1 The meaning of the word 'cat' is a small domesticated carnivorous mammal.

A2 She asked for the meaning of the word 'bittersweet' in the dictionary.

B1 Understanding the meaning of idioms can be challenging for language learners.

B2 The meaning of the poem was open to interpretation by different readers.

C1 The deeper meaning of the novel's ending left readers contemplating its significance.

C2 The artist's abstract paintings were open to various interpretations of their meaning.

Examples of meaning in a Sentence

formal The meaning of this passage can be interpreted in various ways.

informal I'm not sure what you mean by that.

slang What's the meaning behind all this drama?

figurative The painting's true meaning is open to personal interpretation.

Grammatical Forms of meaning

past tense

meant

plural

meanings

comparative

more meaningful

superlative

most meaningful

present tense

means

future tense

will mean

perfect tense

has meant

continuous tense

is meaning

singular

meaning

positive degree

meaningful

infinitive

to mean

gerund

meaning

participle

meaning

Origin and Evolution of meaning

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'meaning' originated from the Old English word 'mænan', which means 'to intend or signify'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'meaning' has evolved to encompass not just intention or significance, but also the interpretation or understanding of something.