noun
mains
maynz
noun
1
The main electrical power supply connected to the public grid.
"The freezer runs off the mains, not a battery."
2
The main course of a meal (British usage).
"For mains, I'll have the roast chicken."
How to Use Mains
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe public electricity/gas/water supply, or (in the UK) the main dish of a meal.
UK vs US
Calling the main course of a meal "mains" is standard in British English; Americans usually just say "main course" or "entrée."
Common pairings
mains electricity
mains water
order mains
Word Forms
mains plural
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The freezer runs off the _____, not a battery.
Etymology
Related to the plural of main, and to "manse."