noun
meaning
MEE-nihng
noun
1
The idea or sense that a word, action, or symbol is intended to convey.
"The meaning of the poem wasn't clear until the final stanza."
"Look up the meaning of this word in the dictionary."
2
A sense of purpose or significance in life.
"Volunteering gave her life new meaning."
How to Use Meaning
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWhat something signifies, or the sense of purpose behind it.
Common pairings
true meaning
lose meaning
meaning of life
double meaning
Word Forms
more meaning comparative, meanings plural, most meaning superlative
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The _____ of the poem wasn't clear until the final stanza.
Etymology
From Middle English mening, built from mean plus the noun-forming suffix -ing.