Means — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Means
Means (noun)
- something intervening or intermediate
- a middle point between extremes
- a value that lies within a range of values and is computed according to a prescribed law
- an examination into the financial state of a person to determine eligibility for public assistance
Means (verb)
- to have in the mind as a purpose, intend —sometimes used interjectionally with I, chiefly in informal speech for emphasis or to introduce a phrase restating the point of a preceding phrase
- to design for or destine to a specified purpose or future
- to serve or intend to convey, show, or indicate, signify
Means (phrase)
- to be very important to (someone), to be something (someone) cares about very much
- most assuredly, certainly
- through the use of
- in no way, not at all
Means (noun phrase)
- a way to pay for the things that one needs to live, source of income
- something done only to produce a desired result
Means (plural noun)
- methods and resources for accomplishing something and especially for defraying expenses
- methods and resources for raising the necessary revenues for the expenses of a nation or state
- a legislative committee concerned with this function
Means (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
to communicate or convey (as an idea) to the mind
"the national anthem means various things to various people"
-
to be of importance
"your presence at my graduation would mean a lot to me"
-
to have in mind as a purpose or goal
"I mean to win this race"
-
to serve as a sign or symptom of
"these colder nights mean autumn has truly arrived"
Means (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
an action planned or taken to achieve a desired result
"won the competition by fair and honest means"
-
something used to achieve an end
"the ends don't justify the means"
-
the total of one's money and property
"a woman of considerable means"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Means
The most common words with a similar meaning to Means:
Near Antonyms of Means
Word Forms of Means
Derived words: meaner (noun), means-tested (adjective)
Origin & Etymology of Means
Middle English menen, from Old English mǣnan; akin to Old High German meinen to have in mind, Old Church Slavic měniti to mention
First known use: 14th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Means
- CEFR level: B2 English Vocabulary — Page 16
- Topics: Business & Economics
Words & Phrases Containing Means
Frequently Asked Questions about Means
What does "Means" mean?
"Means" means something intervening or intermediate. As an a noun, a verb, a phrase, a noun phrase and a plural noun, it is defined as: something intervening or intermediate. It has 7 distinct senses.
What is another word for "Means"?
Other words for "Means" include denotes, expresses, imports, intends, signifies, spells, counts and matters. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Means" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Means"?
There are 222 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Means". Common alternatives include denotes, expresses, imports, intends, signifies, spells, counts, matters, weighs and aims.
How do you use "Means" in a sentence?
Examples of "Means" in a sentence: "the national anthem means various things to various people"; "your presence at my graduation would mean a lot to me"; "I mean to win this race".
Is "Means" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Means" can be used as a noun, a verb, a phrase, a noun phrase and a plural noun, depending on the context.
Is "Means" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As a B2-level word, "Means" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.
How do you pronounce "Means"?
"Means" is pronounced /ˈmēn/ as a noun and /ˈmēnz-/ as a noun.
What is the origin of the word "Means"?
"Means" comes from Middle English menen, from Old English mǣnan; akin to Old High German meinen to have in mind, Old Church Slavic měniti to mention. First known use: 14th century.