# dictionary

word: Mead
definition:
Mead

Mead
(mēd)
n.
[OE. mede, AS. meodo; akin to D. mede, G. met, meth, OHG. metu, mitu, Icel. mjöðr, Dan. miöd, Sw. mjöd, Russ. med', Lith. midus, W. medd, Gr. me`qy wine, Skr. madhu honey, a sweet drink, as adj., sweet.  √270.  Cf. Metheglin.]
1.
A fermented drink made of water and honey with malt, yeast, etc.; metheglin; hydromel.
Chaucer.

2.
A drink composed of sirup of sarsaparilla or other flavoring extract, and water.  It is sometimes charged with carbonic acid gas.
[U. S.]


word: Mead₂
definition:
Mead

Mead
n.
[AS. m&aemacr_;d. See Meadow.]
A meadow.

A mede
All full of freshe flowers, white and reede.
Chaucer.

To fertile vales and dewy meads
My weary, wandering steps he leads.
Addison.


word: Meadow
definition:
Meadow

Mead"ow
(?)
n.
[AS. meady; akin to m&aemacr_;d, and to G. matte; prob. also to E. mow. See Mow to cut (grass), and cf. 2d Mead.]
1.
A tract of low or level land producing grass which is mown for hay; any field on which grass is grown for hay.

2.
Low land covered with coarse grass or rank herbage near rives and in marshy places by the sea; as, the salt meadows near Newark Bay.


word: Meadow₂
definition:
Meadow

Mead"ow
a.
Of or pertaining to a meadow; of the nature of a meadow; produced, growing, or living in, a meadow.
meadow
Milton.

&hand_; For many names of plants compounded with meadow, see the particular word in the Vocabulary.

Meadow beauty. (Bot.) Same as Deergrass. -- Meadow foxtail (Bot.), a valuable pasture grass (Alopecurus pratensis) resembling timothy, but with softer spikes. -- Meadow hay, a coarse grass, or true sedge, growing in uncultivated swamp or river meadow; -- used as fodder or bedding for cattle, packing for ice, etc. [Local, U. S.] -- Meadow hen. (Zool.) (a) The American bittern. See Stake-driver. (b) The American coot (Fulica). (c) The clapper rail. -- Meadow mouse (Zool.), any mouse of the genus Arvicola, as the common American species Arvicola riparia; -- called also field mouse, and field vole. -- Meadow mussel (Zool.), an American ribbed mussel (Modiola plicatula), very abundant in salt marshes. -- Meadow ore (Min.), bog-iron ore , a kind of limonite. -- Meadow parsnip. (Bot.) See under Parsnip. -- Meadow pink. (Bot.) See under Pink. -- Meadow pipit (Zool.), a small singing bird of the genus Anthus, as Anthus pratensis, of Europe. -- Meadow rue (Bot.), a delicate early plant, of the genus Thalictrum, having compound leaves and numerous white flowers. There are many species. -- Meadow saffron. (Bot.) See under Saffron. -- Meadow sage. (Bot.) See under Sage. -- Meadow saxifrage (Bot.), an umbelliferous plant of Europe (Silaus pratensis), somewhat resembling fennel. -- Meadow snipe (Zool.), the common or jack snipe.


word: meadow grass
definition:
meadow grass

meadowgrass

meadowgrass, meadow grass
n.
Any of various grasses that thrive in the presence of abundant moisture, especially those of the genus Poa, common in meadows, and of great value for hay and for pasture. See Grass.


word: meadow lark
definition:
meadow lark

meadowlark

meadowlark, meadow lark
n.
(Zool.)
Any species of Sturnella, a genus of North American songbirds allied to the starlings.  The common species (Sturnella magna) has a yellow breast with a black crescent.

Syn. -- lark.


word: Meadowwort
definition:
Meadowwort

Meadowsweet

{ Mead"ow*sweet` (?), Mead"ow*wort` (?), }
n.
(Bot.)
The name of several plants of the genus Spiraea, especially the white- or pink-flowered Spiraea salicifolia, a low European and American shrub, and the herbaceous Spiraea Ulmaria, which has fragrant white flowers in compound cymes.


word: Meagre
definition:
Meagre

Meager

{ Mea"ger, Mea"gre  }
(?)
a.
[OE. merge, F. maigre, L. macer; akin to D. & G. mager, Icel. magr, and prob. to Gr. makro`s long.  Cf. Emaciate, Maigre.]

1.
Destitue of, or having little, flesh; lean.

Meager were his looks;
Sharp misery had worn him to the bones.
Shak.

2.
Destitute of richness, fertility, strength, or the like; defective in quantity, or poor in quality; poor; barren; scanty in ideas; wanting strength of diction or affluence of imagery; as, meager resources; meager fare.  Opposite of ample.
[wns=1]
exiguous
hardscrabble, marginal
measly, miserable, paltry
Meager
Dryden.

Syn. -- meagre, meagerly, scanty.

Of secular habits and meager religious belief.
I. Taylor.

His education had been but meager.
Motley.

3.
(Min.)
Dry and harsh to the touch, as chalk.

4.
less than a desirable amount; -- of items distributed from a larger supply.
[wns=2]

Syn. -- scrimpy, skimpy, skimping.


word: Meagreness
definition:
Meagreness

Meagerness

{ Mea"ger*ness, Mea"gre*ness  }
n.
The state or quality of being meager; leanness; scantiness; barrenness.

Syn. -- meagreness, poorness, scantiness, scantness, exiguity.


word: Meagre₃
definition:
Meagre

Mea"gre
(?)
n.
[F. maigre.]
(Zool.)
A large European sciaenoid fish (Sciaena umbra or Sciaena aquila), having white bloodless flesh.  It is valued as a food fish.
[Written also maigre.]


word: Meak
definition:
Meak

Meak
(?)
n.
[Cf. AS. mēce sword, OS. māki, Icel. maekir.]
A hook with a long handle.
[Obs.]
Tusser.


word: Meaking
definition:
Meaking

Meak"ing
n.
[See Meak.]
(Naut.)
The process of picking out the oakum from the seams of a vessel which is to be recalked.

Meaking iron (Naut.), the tool with which old oakum is picked out of a vessel's seams.


word: Meal
definition:
Meal

Meal
(mēl)
n.
[OE. mele, AS. m&aemacr_;l part, portion, portion of time; akin to E. meal a repast.  Cf. Piecemeal.]
A part; a fragment; a portion.
[Obs.]


word: Meal₂
definition:
Meal

Meal
n.
[OE. mel; akin to E. meal a part, and to D. maal time, meal, G. mal time, mahl meal, Icel. māl measure, time, meal, Goth. mēl time, and to E. measure. See Measure.]
The portion of food taken at a particular time for the satisfaction of appetite; the quantity usually taken at one time with the purpose of satisfying hunger; a repast; the act or time of eating a meal; as, the traveler has not eaten a good meal for a week; there was silence during the meal.

What strange fish
Hath made his meal on thee?
Shak.


word: Meal₃
definition:
Meal

Meal
n.
[OE. mele, AS. melu, melo; akin to D. meel, G. mehl, OHG. melo, Icel. mjöl, SW. mjöl, Dan. meel, also to D. malen to grind, G. mahlen, OHG., OS., & Goth. malan, Icel. mala, W. malu, L. molere, Gr. my`lh mill, and E. mill. √108.  Cf. Mill, Mold soil, Mole an animal, Immolate, Molar.]

1.
Grain (esp. maize, rye, or oats) that is coarsely ground and unbolted; also, a kind of flour made from beans, pease, etc.; sometimes, any flour, esp. if coarse.

2.
Any substance that is coarsely pulverized like meal, but not granulated.

Meal beetle (Zool.), the adult of the meal worm. See Meal worm, below. -- Meal moth (Zool.), a lepidopterous insect (Asopia farinalis), the larvae of which feed upon meal, flour, etc. -- Meal worm (Zool.), the larva of a beetle (Tenebrio molitor) which infests granaries, bakehouses, etc., and is very injurious to flour and meal.


word: Mealies
definition:
Mealies

Meal"ies
(?)
n. pl.
[From Mealy.]
(Bot.)
Maize or Indian corn; -- the common name in South Africa.


word: meals-on-wheels
definition:
meals-on-wheels

meals on wheels

meals on wheels, meals-on-wheels
n.
A program that delivers hot meals to persons, such as the elderly or disabled, who are confined to their homes and unable to cook for themselves; also, the meals thus delivered.  Such programs are usually conducted by governmental or charitable organizations.


word: Mealy
definition:
Mealy

Meal"y
(mēl"&ybreve_;)
a.
[Compar. Mealier (?); superl. Mealiest.]
1.
Having the qualities of meal; resembling meal; soft, dry, and friable; easily reduced to a condition resembling meal; as, a mealy potato.

2.
Overspread with something that resembles meal; as, the mealy wings of an insect.
Shak.


word: mealy bug
definition:
mealy bug

mealybug

meal"y*bug`, mealy bug
(mēl"&ybreve_;*bŭg`)
n.
(Zool.)
Any of several homopteran scale insects (as, Coccus adonidum, and related species of the families Pseudococcidae and Eriococcidae), that cover themselves with a white powderlike or cottony wax secretion.  They are common plant-eating pests in hothouses and are also destructive of fruit trees.


word: Mealy-mouthed
definition:
Mealy-mouthed

Meal"y-mouthed`
(?)
a.
Using soft words; not straightforward; plausible; affectedly or timidly delicate of speech; speaking deviously; unwilling to tell the truth in plain language.  Opposite of frank or blunt.
Mealy-mouthed
Tennyson.

She was a fool to be mealy-mouthed where nature speaks so plain.
L'Estrange.


word: Mean
definition:
Mean

Mean
(mēn)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Meant (mĕnt); p. pr. & vb. n. Meaning.]
[OE. menen, AS. m&aemacr_;nan to recite, tell, intend, wish; akin to OS. mēnian to have in mind, mean, D. meenen, G. meinen, OHG. meinan, Icel. meina, Sw. mena, Dan. mene, and to E. mind.  √104.  See Mind, and cf. Moan.]
1.
To have in the mind, as a purpose, intention, etc.; to intend; to purpose; to design; as, what do you mean to do?

What mean ye by this service ?
Ex. xii. 26.

Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good.
Gen. 1. 20.

I am not a Spaniard
To say that it is yours and not to mean it.
Longfellow.

2.
To signify; to indicate; to import; to denote.

What mean these seven ewe lambs ?
Gen. xxi. 29.

Go ye, and learn what that meaneth.
Matt. ix. 13.


word: Mean₂
definition:
Mean

Mean
v. i.
To have a purpose or intention.
[Rare, except in the phrase to mean well, or ill.]
Shak.


word: Mean₃
definition:
Mean

Mean
(mēn)
a.
[Compar. Meaner (mēn"ẽr); superl. Meanest.]
[OE. mene, AS. m&aemacr_;ne wicked; akin to mān, a., wicked, n., wickedness, OS. mēn wickedness, OHG. mein, G. meineid perjury, Icel. mein harm, hurt, and perh. to AS. gem&aemacr_;ne common, general, D. gemeen, G. gemein, Goth. gamáins, and L. communis. The AS. gem&aemacr_;ne prob. influenced the meaning.]

1.
Destitute of distinction or eminence; common; low; vulgar; humble.
mean
Sir P. Sidney.

The mean man boweth down, and the great man humbleth himself.
Is. ii. 9.

2.
Wanting dignity of mind; low-minded; base; destitute of honor; spiritless; as, a mean motive.

Can you imagine I so mean could prove,
To save my life by changing of my love ?
Dryden.

3.
Of little value or account; worthy of little or no regard; contemptible; despicable.

The Roman legions and great Caesar found
Our fathers no mean foes.
J. Philips.

4.
Of poor quality; as, mean fare.

5.
Penurious; stingy; close-fisted; illiberal; as, mean hospitality.

&hand_; Mean is sometimes used in the formation of compounds, the sense of which is obvious without explanation; as, meanborn, mean-looking, etc.


word: Mean₄
definition:
Mean

Mean
a.
[OE. mene, OF. meiien, F. moyen, fr. L. medianus that is in the middle, fr. medius; akin to E. mid. See Mid.]
1.
Occupying a middle position; middle; being about midway between extremes.

Being of middle age and a mean stature.
Sir. P. Sidney.

2.
Intermediate in excellence of any kind.

According to the fittest style of lofty, mean, or lowly.
Milton.

3.
(Math.)
Average; having an intermediate value between two extremes, or between the several successive values of a variable quantity during one cycle of variation; as, mean distance; mean motion; mean solar day.

Mean distance (of a planet from the sun) (Astron.), the average of the distances throughout one revolution of the planet, equivalent to the semi-major axis of the orbit. -- Mean error (Math. Phys.), the average error of a number of observations found by taking the mean value of the positive and negative errors without regard to sign. -- Mean-square error, or Error of the mean square (Math. Phys.), the error the square of which is the mean of the squares of all the errors; -- called also, mean square deviation, mean error. -- Mean line. (Crystallog.) Same as Bisectrix. -- Mean noon, noon as determined by mean time. -- Mean proportional (between two numbers) (Math.), the square root of their product. -- Mean sun, a fictitious sun supposed to move uniformly in the equator so as to be on the meridian each day at mean noon. -- Mean time, time as measured by an equable motion, as of a perfect clock, or as reckoned on the supposition that all the days of the year are of a mean or uniform length, in contradistinction from apparent time, or that actually indicated by the sun, and from sidereal time, or that measured by the stars.


word: Mean₅
definition:
Mean

Mean
n.
1.
That which is mean, or intermediate, between two extremes of place, time, or number; the middle point or place; middle rate or degree; mediocrity; medium; absence of extremes or excess; moderation; measure.

But to speak in a mean, the virtue of prosperity is temperance; the virtue of adversity is fortitude.
Bacon.

There is a mean in all things.
Dryden.

The extremes we have mentioned, between which the wellinstracted Christian holds the mean, are correlatives.
I. Taylor.

2.
(Math.)
A quantity having an intermediate value between several others, from which it is derived, and of which it expresses the resultant value; usually, unless otherwise specified, it is the simple average, formed by adding the quantities together and dividing by their number, which is called an arithmetical mean.  A geometrical mean is the nth root of the product of the n quantities being averaged.

3.
That through which, or by the help of which, an end is attained; something tending to an object desired; intermediate agency or measure; necessary condition or coagent; instrument.

Their virtuous conversation was a mean to work the conversion of the heathen to Christ.
Hooker.

You may be able, by this mean, to review your own scientific acquirements.
Coleridge.

Philosophical doubt is not an end, but a mean.
Sir W. Hamilton.

&hand_; In this sense the word is usually employed in the plural form means, and often with a singular attribute or predicate, as if a singular noun.

By this means he had them more at vantage.
Bacon.

What other means is left unto us.
Shak.

4.
pl.
Hence:
Resources; property, revenue, or the like, considered as the condition of easy livelihood, or an instrumentality at command for effecting any purpose; disposable force or substance.

Your means are very slender, and your waste is great.
Shak.

5.
(Mus.)
A part, whether alto or tenor, intermediate between the soprano and base; a middle part.
[Obs.]

The mean is drowned with your unruly base.
Shak.

6.
Meantime; meanwhile.
[Obs.]
Spenser.

7.
A mediator; a go-between.
[Obs.]
Piers Plowman.

He wooeth her by means and by brokage.
Chaucer.

By all means, certainly; without fail; as, go, by all means. -- By any means, in any way; possibly; at all.
[1913 Webster]
If by any means I might attain to the resurrection of the dead. Phil. iii. ll.
[1913 Webster]
-- By no means, or By no manner of means, not at all; certainly not; not in any degree.
[1913 Webster]
The wine on this side of the lake is by no means so good as that on the other. Addison.


word: Meander
definition:
Meander

Me*an"der
(?)
n.
[L. Maeander, orig., a river in Phrygia, proverbial for its many windings, Gr. _;: cf. F. méandre.]
1.
A winding, crooked, or involved course; as, the meanders of the veins and arteries.
Sir M. Hale.

While lingering rivers in meanders glide.
Sir R. Blackmore.

2.
A tortuous or intricate movement.

3.
(Arch.)
Fretwork. See Fret.


word: Meander₃
definition:
Meander

Me*an"der
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Meandered (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Meandering.]
To wind or turn in a course or passage; to be intricate.

Five miles meandering with a mazy motion
Through wood and dale the sacred river ran.
Coleridge.


word: Meandrina
definition:
Meandrina

Me`an*dri"na
(?)
n.
[NL.: cf. F. méandrine.]
(Zool.)
A genus of corals with meandering grooves and ridges, including the brain corals.


word: Meaning
definition:
Meaning

Mean"ing
(?)
n.
1.
That which is meant or intended; intent; purpose; aim; object; as, a mischievous meaning was apparent.

If there be any good meaning towards you.
Shak.

2.
That which is signified, whether by act lanquage; signification; sense; import; as, the meaning of a hint.

3.
Sense; power of thinking.
[R.]


word: meaningful
definition:
meaningful

meaningful
adj.
Having a meaning or purpose; having significance; as, a meaningful explanation; a meaningful discussion; a meaningful pause; to live a meaningful life.  Opposite of meaningless.
comprehensible, understandable
indicative, significative, suggestive 
meaty, substantive 
purposeful
Also See: purposeful, significant, important.


word: meaningless
definition:
meaningless

meaningless
adj.
having no meaning; of no value; as, a meaningless endeavor; a meaningless life; a meaningless explanation.  Opposite of meaningful.
insignificant 
mindless, unmeaning 
nonsense(prenominal), nonsensical 
pointless, purposeless 
Also See: insignificant, unimportant, purposeless, unimportant.


word: Meanly
definition:
Meanly

Mean"ly
adv.
[Mean middle.]
Moderately.
[Obs.]

A man meanly learned himself, but not meanly affectioned to set forward learning in others.
Ascham.


word: Meanly₂
definition:
Meanly

Mean"ly
adv.
[From Mean low.]
In a mean manner; unworthily; basely; poorly; ungenerously.

While the heaven-born child
All meanly wrapt in the rude manger lies.
Milton.

Would you meanly thus rely
On power you know I must obey ?
Prior.

We can not bear to have others think meanly of them [our kindred].
I. Watts.


word: Meanness
definition:
Meanness

Mean"ness
n.
1.
The condition, or quality, of being mean; want of excellence; poorness; lowness; baseness; sordidness; stinginess.

This figure is of a later date, by the meanness of the workmanship.
Addison.

2.
A mean act; as, to be guilty of meanness.
Goldsmith.


word: mean-spirited
definition:
mean-spirited

meanspirited

mean"spir`it*ed, mean"-spir`it*ed
(?)
a.
1.
Of a mean spirit; petty; small-minded; base; groveling; -- of people.
Mean"-spir`it*ed*ness, n.

2.
Done for malevolent reasons; -- of deeds and actions.

Syn. -- base, contemptible, currish, mean, meanspirited, scurvy.


word: Meanwhile
definition:
Meanwhile

Meantime

{ Mean"time` (?), Mean"while` (?), }
n.
The intervening time; as, in the meantime (or mean time).


word: Meanwhile₂
definition:
Meanwhile

Meantime

{ Mean"time`, Mean"while`, }
adv.
In the intervening time; during the interval.


word: Measelry
definition:
Measelry

Mea"sel*ry
(?)
n.
[OE. meselrie, OF. mesellerie. See 1st Measle.]
Leprosy.
[Obs.]
R. of Brunne.


word: Measle
definition:
Measle

Mea"sle
(?)
n.
[OE. mesel, OF. mesel, LL. misellus, L. misellus unfortunate, dim. of miser. See Miser.]
A leper.
[Obs.]
[Written also meazel, and mesel.]
Wyclif (Matt. x. 8. ).


word: Measled
definition:
Measled

Mea"sled
(?)
a.
[See 2d Measles.]
Infected or spotted with measles, as pork.
Mea"sled*ness, n.


word: Measles₂
definition:
Measles

Mea"sles
n.
pl. in form, but used as singular in senses 1, 2, & 3.
[D. mazelen; akin to G. masern, pl., and E. mazer, and orig. meaning, little spots. See Mazer.]

1.
(Med.)
A contagious viral febrile disorder commencing with catarrhal symptoms, and marked by the appearance on the third day of an eruption of distinct red circular spots, which coalesce in a crescentic form, are slightly raised above the surface, and after the fourth day of the eruption gradually decline; rubeola.  It is a common childhood disease.

Measles commences with the ordinary symptoms of fever.
Am. Cyc.

2.
(Veter. Med.)
A disease of cattle and swine in which the flesh is filled with the embryos of different varieties of the tapeworm.

3.
A disease of trees.
[Obs.]

4.
pl.
(Zool.)
The larvae of any tapeworm (Taenia) in the cysticerus stage, when contained in meat.  Called also bladder worms.

German measles A mild contagious viral disease, which may cause birth defects if contracted by a pregnant woman during early pregnancy; also called rubella.


word: measly
definition:
measly

mea"sly
(mē"zly)
a.
1.
Infected with measles.

2.
(Zool.)
Containing larval tapeworms; -- said of pork and beef.

3.
Contemptibly small in quantity; meager; absurdly insufficient or bad; as, a measly few dollars for all that work.


word: Measurable
definition:
Measurable

Meas"ur*a*ble
(?)
a.
[F. mesurable, L. mensurabilis. See Measure, and cf. Mensurable.]

1.
Capable of being measured; susceptible of mensuration or computation.

2.
Moderate; temperate; not excessive.

Of his diet measurable was he.
Chaucer.

Yet do it measurably, as it becometh Christians.
Latimer.


word: measure
definition:
measure

meas"ure
(mĕzh"&uuptack_;r; 135)
n.
[OE. mesure, F. mesure, L. mensura, fr. metiri, mensus, to measure; akin to metrum poetical measure, Gr. me`tron, E. meter.  Cf. Immense, Mensuration, Mete to measure.]
1.
A standard of dimension; a fixed unit of quantity or extent; an extent or quantity in the fractions or multiples of which anything is estimated and stated; hence, a rule by which anything is adjusted or judged.

2.
An instrument by means of which size or quantity is measured, as a graduated line, rod, vessel, or the like.

False ells and measures be brought all clean adown.
R. of Gloucester.

3.
The dimensions or capacity of anything, reckoned according to some standard; size or extent, determined and stated; estimated extent; as, to take one's measure for a coat.

The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea.
Job xi. 9.

4.
The contents of a vessel by which quantity is measured; a quantity determined by a standard; a stated or limited quantity or amount.

It is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal.
Luke xiii. 21.

5.
Extent or degree not excessive or beyong bounds; moderation; due restraint; esp. in the phrases, in measure; with measure; without or beyond measure.

Hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure.
Is. v. 14.

6.
Determined extent, not to be exceeded; limit; allotted share, as of action, influence, ability, or the like; due proportion.

Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days.
Ps. xxxix. 4.

7.
The quantity determined by measuring, especially in buying and selling; as, to give good or full measure.

8.
Undefined quantity; extent; degree.

There is a great measure of discretion to be used in the performance of confession.
Jer. Taylor.

9.
Regulated division of movement
(a)
(Dancing)
A regulated movement corresponding to the time in which the accompanying music is performed; but, especially, a slow and stately dance, like the minuet.
(b)
(Mus.)
The group or grouping of beats, caused by the regular recurrence of accented beats.
The space between two bars.
Beat
Triple
Quadruple
Sextuple
Compound time
Compound
a.
Figure
(c)
(Poetry)
The manner of ordering and combining the quantities, or long and short syllables; meter; rhythm; hence, a foot; as, a poem in iambic measure.

10.
(Arith.)
A number which is contained in a given number a number of times without a remainder; as in the phrases, the common measure, the greatest common measure, etc., of two or more numbers; a denominator.  See common denominator under denominator.

11.
A step or definite part of a progressive course or policy; a means to an end; an act designed for the accomplishment of an object; as, political measures; prudent measures; an inefficient measure.

His majesty found what wrong measures he had taken in the conferring that trust, and lamented his error.
Clarendon.

12.
The act of measuring; measurement.
Shak.

13.
pl.
(Geol.)
Beds or strata; as, coal measures; lead measures.

linear measure, lineal measure, or long measure, measure of length; the measure of lines or distances. -- Liquid measure, the measure of liquids. -- Square measure, the measure of superficial area of surfaces in square units, as inches, feet, miles, etc. -- To have hard measure, to have harsh treatment meted out to one; to be harshly or oppressively dealt with. -- To take measures, to make preparations; to provide means. -- To take one's measure, to measure one, as for a garment; hence, to form an opinion of one's disposition, character, ability, etc. -- To tread a measure, to dance in the style so called. See 9 (a).

Say to her, we have measured many miles
To tread a measure with her on this grass.
Shak.


word: Measure
definition:
Measure

Meas"ure
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Measured (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Measuring.]
[F. mesurer, L. mensurare. See Measure, n.]
1.
To ascertain by use of a measuring instrument; to compute or ascertain the extent, quantity, dimensions, or capacity of, by a certain rule or standard; to take the dimensions of; hence, to estimate; to judge of; to value; to appraise.

Great are thy works, Jehovah, infinite
Thy power! what thought can measure thee?
Milton.

2.
To serve as the measure of; as, the thermometer measures changes of temperature.

3.
To pass throught or over in journeying, as if laying off and determining the distance.

A true devoted pilgrim is not weary
To measure kingdoms with his feeble steps.
Shak.

4.
To adjust by a rule or standard.

To secure a contented spirit, measure your desires by your fortunes, not your fortunes by your desires.
Jer. Taylor.

5.
To allot or distribute by measure; to set off or apart by measure; -- often with out or off.

With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
Matt. vii. 2.

That portion of eternity which is called time, measured out by the sun.
Addison.

To measure swords with one, to try another's skill in the use of the sword; hence, figuratively, to match one's abilities against an antagonist's.


word: Measure₂
definition:
Measure

Meas"ure
(?)
v. i.
1.
To make a measurement or measurements.

2.
To result, or turn out, on measuring; as, the grain measures well; the pieces measure unequally.

3.
To be of a certain size or quantity, or to have a certain length, breadth, or thickness, or a certain capacity according to a standard measure; as, cloth measures three fourths of a yard; a tree measures three feet in diameter.


word: Measured
definition:
Measured

Meas"ured
(?)
a.
Regulated or determined by a standard; hence, equal; uniform; graduated; limited; moderated; as, he walked with measured steps; he expressed himself in no measured terms.
Meas"ured*ly, adv.


word: Measureless
definition:
Measureless

Meas"ure*less
(?)
a.
Without measure; unlimited; immeasurable.
Meas"ure*less*ness, n.

Where Alf, the sacred river ran,
Through canyons measureless to man,
Down to a hidden sea.
Coleridge.


word: Measurement
definition:
Measurement

Meas"ure*ment
(?)
n.
1.
The act or result of measuring; mensuration; as, measurement is required.

2.
The extent, size, capacity, amount. or quantity ascertained by measuring; as, its measurement is five acres.


word: Measurer
definition:
Measurer

Meas"ur*er
(?)
n.
One who measures; one whose occupation or duty is to measure commondities in market.


word: Measuring
definition:
Measuring

Meas"ur*ing
a.
Used in, or adapted for, ascertaining measurements, or dividing by measure.

Measuring faucet, a faucet which permits only a given quantity of liquid to pass each time it is opened, or one by means of which the liquid which passes can be measured. -- Measuring worm (Zool.), the larva of any geometrid moth.  They are so called because they move by a process in which they first pull the rear legs forward toward their front legs, forming a loop which resembles the process of measuring with a tape measure.  The motion is completed by subsequently moving the front legs forward to an advanced position. See Geometrid.


word: Meat
definition:
Meat

Meat
(mēt)
n.
[OE. mete, AS. mete; akin to OS. mat, meti, D. met hashed meat, G. mettwurst sausage, OHG. maz food, Icel. matr, Sw. mat, Dan. mad, Goth. mats.  Cf. Mast fruit, Mush.]
1.
Food, in general; anything eaten for nourishment, either by man or beast.  Hence, the edible part of anything; as, the meat of a lobster, a nut, or an egg.
Chaucer.

And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, . . . to you it shall be for meat.
Gen. i. 29.

Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you.
Gen. ix. 3.

2.
The flesh of animals used as food; esp., animal muscle; as, a breakfast of bread and fruit without meat.

3.
Specifically:
Dinner; the chief meal.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

Meat biscuit. See under Biscuit. -- Meat earth (Mining), vegetable mold. Raymond. -- Meat fly. (Zool.) See Flesh fly, under Flesh. -- Meat offering (Script.), an offering of food, esp. of a cake made of flour with salt and oil. -- To go to meat, to go to a meal. [Obs.] -- To sit at meat, to sit at the table in taking food.


word: Meat₂
definition:
Meat

Meat
v. t.
To supply with food.
[Obs.]
Tusser.

His shield well lined, his horses meated well.
Chapman.


word: Meated
definition:
Meated

Meat"ed
(?)
a.
1.
Fed; fattened.
[Obs.]
Tusser.

2.
Having (such) meat; -- used chiefly in composition; as, thick-meated.


word: Meatoscope
definition:
Meatoscope

Me*at"o*scope
(?)
n.
[Meatus + -scope.]
(Med.)
A speculum for examining a natural passage, as the urethra.


word: Meatotome
definition:
Meatotome

Me*at"o*tome
(?)
n.
[Meatus + Gr. _; to cut.]
(Surg.)
An instrument for cutting into the urethra so as to enlarge its orifice.


word: Meatus
definition:
Meatus

Me*a"tus
(?)
n. sing. & pl.
E. pl. Meatuses (_;).
[L., a going, passage, fr. meare to go.]
(Anat.)
A natural passage or canal; as, the external auditory meatus. See Illust. of Ear.


word: Mecate
definition:
Mecate

Me*ca"te
(?)
n.
[Sp.]
A rope of hair or of maguey fiber, for tying horses, etc.
[Southwestern U. S.]


word: Meccawee
definition:
Meccawee

Mec`ca*wee"
(?)
prop. a.
Of or pertaining to Mecca, in Arabia.
n. A native or inhabitant of Mecca.


word: Mechanic
definition:
Mechanic

Me*chan"ic
(?)
n.
[F. mécanique mechanics. See Mechanic, a.]
1.
The art of the application of the laws of motion or force to construction.
[Obs.]

2.
A mechanician; an artisan; an artificer; one who practices any mechanic art; one skilled or employed in shaping and uniting materials, as wood, metal, etc., into any kind of structure, machine, or other object, requiring the use of tools, or instruments.  Also, a technician who maintains or repairs machinery; as, an auto mechanic.

An art quite lost with our mechanics.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Mechanic₂
definition:
Mechanic

Me*chan"ic
(me̝*kăn"ĭk)
a.
[F. mécanique, L. mechanicus, Gr. mhchaniko`s, fr. mhchanh` a machine. See Machine.]
1.
Having to do with the application of the laws of motion in the art of constructing or making things; of or pertaining to mechanics; mechanical; as, the mechanic arts.
mechanic
Ray.

Mechanic slaves,
With greasy aprons, rules, and hammers.
Shak.

2.
Of or pertaining to a mechanic or artificer, or to the class of artisans; hence, rude; common; vulgar.

To make a god, a hero, or a king
Descend to a mechanic dialect.
Roscommon.

Sometimes he ply'd the strong, mechanic tool.
Thomson.

3.
Base.
[Obs.]
Whitlock.


word: Mechanical
definition:
Mechanical

Me*chan"ic*al
(?)
a.
[From Mechanic, a.]

1.
Pertaining to, governed by, or in accordance with, mechanics, or the laws of motion; pertaining to the quantitative relations of force and matter on a macroscopic scale, as distinguished from mental, vital, chemical, electrical, electronic, atomic etc.; as, mechanical principles; a mechanical theory;
especially,
using only the interactions of solid parts against each other; as mechanical brakes, in contrast to hydraulic brakes.

2.
Of or pertaining to a machine or to machinery or tools; made or formed by a machine or with tools; as, mechanical precision; mechanical products.

We have also divers mechanical arts.
Bacon.

3.
Done as if by a machine; uninfluenced by will or emotion; proceeding automatically, or by habit, without special intention or reflection; as, mechanical singing; mechanical verses; mechanical service.

4.
Made and operated by interaction of forces without a directing intelligence; as, a mechanical universe.

5.
Obtained by trial, by measurements, etc.; approximate; empirical. See the 2d Note under Geometric.

Mechanical effect, effective power; useful work exerted, as by a machine, in a definite time. -- Mechanical engineering. See the Note under Engineering. -- Mechanical maneuvers (Mil.), the application of mechanical appliances to the mounting, dismounting, and moving of artillery. Farrow. -- Mechanical philosophy, the principles of mechanics applied to the investigation of physical phenomena. -- Mechanical powers, certain simple instruments, such as the lever and its modifications (the wheel and axle and the pulley), the inclined plane with its modifications (the screw and the wedge), which convert a small force acting through a great space into a great force acting through a small space, or vice versa, and are used separately or in combination. -- Mechanical solution (Math.), a solution of a problem by any art or contrivance not strictly geometrical, as by means of the ruler and compasses, or other instruments.


word: Mechanician
definition:
Mechanician

Mech`a*ni"cian
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. mécanicien. See Mechanic.]
One skilled in the theory or construction of machines; a machinist.
Boyle.


word: Mechanico-chemical
definition:
Mechanico-chemical

Me*chan`i*co-chem"ic*al
(?)
a.
Pertaining to, connected with, or dependent upon, both mechanics and chemistry; -- said especially of those sciences which treat of such phenomena as seem to depend on the laws both of mechanics and chemistry, as electricity and magnetism.


word: Mechanics
definition:
Mechanics

Me*chan"ics
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. mécanique.]
That science, or branch of applied mathematics, which treats of the action of forces on bodies.

&hand_; That part of mechanics which considers the action of forces in producing rest or equilibrium is called statics; that which relates to such action in producing motion is called dynamics. The term mechanics includes the action of forces on all bodies, whether solid, liquid, or gaseous. It is sometimes, however, and formerly was often, used distinctively of solid bodies only: The mechanics of liquid bodies is called also hydrostatics, or hydrodynamics, according as the laws of rest or of motion are considered. The mechanics of gaseous bodies is called also pneumatics. The mechanics of fluids in motion, with special reference to the methods of obtaining from them useful results, constitutes hydraulics.

Animal mechanics (Physiol.), that portion of physiology which has for its object the investigation of the laws of equilibrium and motion in the animal body. The most important mechanical principle is that of the lever, the bones forming the arms of the levers, the contractile muscles the power, the joints the fulcra or points of support, while the weight of the body or of the individual limbs constitutes the weight or resistance. -- Applied mechanics, the principles of abstract mechanics applied to human art; also, the practical application of the laws of matter and motion to the construction of machines and structures of all kinds. -- orbital mechanics, the principles governing the motion of bodies in orbit around other bodies under gravitational influence, such as artificial Earth satellites.


word: mechanisation
definition:
mechanisation

mechanisation
n.
Mechanization.

Syn. -- automation, mechanization, high technology, high-tech.


word: Mechanism
definition:
Mechanism

Mech"an*ism
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. mécanisme, L. mechanisma. See Mechanic.]
1.
The arrangement or relation of the parts of a machine; the parts of a machine, taken collectively; the arrangement or relation of the parts of anything as adapted to produce an effect; as, the mechanism of a watch; the mechanism of a sewing machine; the mechanism of a seed pod.

2.
The series of causal relations that operate to produce an effect in any system; as, the mechanism of a chemical reaction.

3.
Mechanical operation or action.

He acknowledges nothing besides matter and motion; so that all must be performed either by mechanism or accident.
Bentley.

4.
(Kinematics)
An ideal machine; a combination of movable bodies constituting a machine, but considered only with regard to relative movements.


word: mechanism of action
definition:
mechanism of action

mech"an*ism of ac"tion
(?)
n.
(Medicine, Biochemistry)
The mechanism{2} by which a pharmacologically active substance produces an effect on a living organism or in a biochemical system; as, the mechanism of action of actinomycin involves its binding to DNA.  The mechanism of action is usually considered to include an identification of the specific molecular targets to which a pharmacologically active substance binds or whose biochemical action it influences; a general recognition of the broad biochemical pathways (such as DNA synthesis, protein synthesis, cholesterol synthesis) which are inhibited or affected by a substance is termed its mode of action.


word: Mechanist
definition:
Mechanist

Mech"an*ist
n.
1.
A maker of machines; one skilled in mechanics.

2.
One who regards the phenomena of nature as the effects of forces merely mechanical.


word: mechanization
definition:
mechanization

mechanization
n.
1.
The act or process of mechanizing.

2.
Causing to be performed by machines, especially by a highly technical implementation, usually involving electronic hardware; as, the mechanization of a manufacturing process.

Syn. -- automation, mechanisation, high technology, high-tech.


word: Mechanize
definition:
Mechanize

Mech"an*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mechanized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mechanizing (?).]
[Cf. F. méchaniser.]
1.
To cause to be mechanical.
Shelley.

2.
To introduce machinery into (a process) in order to reduce human effort or improve uniformity or quality of the result;
especially,
To cause to be accomplished by a mechanical means which requires little or no human supervision; to automate.

3.
Hence:
(Mil.)
To equip (an armed force) with tanks or other vehicles.


word: Mechanograph
definition:
Mechanograph

Mech"an*o*graph
(?)
n.
[Gr. mhchanh` machine + -graph.]
One of a number of copies of anything multiplied mechanically.


word: Mechanographic
definition:
Mechanographic

Mech`an*o*graph`ic
(mĕk`an*o̝*grăf"ĭk)
a.
1.
Treating of mechanics.
[R.]

2.
Written, copied, or recorded by machinery; produced by mechanography; as, a mechanographic record of changes of temperature; mechanographic prints.


word: Mechanographist
definition:
Mechanographist

Mech`an*og"ra*phist
(mĕk`an*&obreve_;g"rȧ*fĭst)
n.
An artist who, by mechanical means, multiplies copies of works of art.


word: Mechanography
definition:
Mechanography

Mech`an*og"ra*phy
(?)
n.
The art of mechanically multiplying copies of a writing, or any work of art.


word: Mechanurgy
definition:
Mechanurgy

Mech"an*ur`gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. mhchanh` machine + the root of _; work.]
That branch of science which treats of moving machines.


word: Mechitarist
definition:
Mechitarist

Mech"i*tar*ist
(?)
n.
[From Mechitar, an Armenian., who founded the congregation in the early part of the eighteenth century.]
(Eccl. Hist.)
One of a religious congregation of the Roman Catholic Church devoted to the improvement of Armenians.


word: Mechoacan
definition:
Mechoacan

Me*cho"a*can
(?)
n.
A species of jalap, of very feeble properties, said to be obtained from the root of a species of Convolvulus (Convolvulus Mechoacan); -- so called from Michoacan, in Mexico, whence it is obtained.


word: Meckelian
definition:
Meckelian

Meck*e"li*an
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Pertaining to, or discovered by, J. F. Meckel, a German anatomist.

Meckelian cartilage, the cartilaginous rod which forms the axis of the mandible; -- called also Meckel's cartilage.


word: Meconic
definition:
Meconic

Me*con"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _; belonging to the poppy, fr. _; the poppy: cf. F. méconique.]
Pertaining to, or obtained from, the poppy or opium; specif. (Chem.), designating an acid related to aconitic acid, found in opium and extracted as a white crystalline substance.


word: Meconidine
definition:
Meconidine

Me*con"i*dine
(?)
n.
(Chem)
An alkaloid found in opium, and extracted as a yellow amorphous substance which is easily decomposed.


word: Meconidium
definition:
Meconidium

Mec`o*nid"i*um
(?)
n.
[NL., dim. of Gr. _; a poppy. So called in allusion to the shape of the seed capsules of the poppy.]
(Zool.)
A kind of gonophore produced by hydroids of the genus Gonothyraea.  It has tentacles, and otherwise resembles a free medusa, but remains attached by a pedicel.


word: Meconin
definition:
Meconin

Mec"o*nin
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. méconine.]
(Chem.)
A substance regarded as an anhydride of meconinic acid, existing in opium and extracted as a white crystalline substance.  Also erroneously called meconina, meconia, etc., as though it were an alkaloid.


word: Meconinic
definition:
Meconinic

Mec`o*nin"ic
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid which occurs in opium, and which may be obtained by oxidizing narcotine.


word: Meconium
definition:
Meconium

Me*co"ni*um
(?)
n.
[L., fr. Gr. _;, fr. _; poppy.]
(Med.)
(a)
Opium.
[Obs.]
(b)
The contents of the fetal intestine; hence, first excrement.


word: Medal
definition:
Medal

Med"al
(?)
n.
[F. médaille, It. medaglia, fr. L. metallum metal, through (assumed) LL. metalleus made of metal. See Metal, and cf. Mail a piece of money.]
A piece of metal in the form of a coin, struck with a device, and intended to preserve the remembrance of a notable event or an illustrious person, or to serve as a reward.


word: Medal₂
definition:
Medal

Med"al
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Medaled (?), or Medalled; p. pr. & vb. n. Medaling or Medalling.]
To honor or reward with a medal.
Medaled
Thackeray.


word: Medalist
definition:
Medalist

Med"al*ist
n.
[Cf. F. médailliste, It. medaglista.]
[Written also medallist.]

1.
A person that is skilled or curious in medals; a collector of medals.
Addison.

2.
A designer of medals.
Macaulay.

3.
One who has gained a medal as the reward of merit; as, the gold medalist in downhill skiing.


word: Medallion
definition:
Medallion

Me*dal"lion
(?)
n.
[F. médaillion, It. medaglione, augm. of medaglia. See Medal.]

1.
A large medal or memorial coin.

2.
A circular or oval (or, sometimes, square) tablet bearing a figure or figures represented in relief.


word: Medal play
definition:
Medal play

Med"al play`
(Golf)
Play in which the score is reckoned by counting the number of strokes.


word: Medalurgy
definition:
Medalurgy

Med"al*ur`gy
(?)
n.
[Medal + the root of Gr. _; work.]
The art of making and striking medals and coins.
[Written also medallurgy.]


word: Meddle
definition:
Meddle

Med"dle`
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Meddled (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Meddling (?).]
[OE. medlen to mix, OF. medler, mesler, F. mêler, LL. misculare, a dim. fr. L. miscere to mix.  √271.  See Mix, and cf. Medley, Mellay.]

1.
To mix; to mingle.
[Obs.]

More to know
Did never meddle with my thoughts.
Shak.

2.
To interest or engage one's self; to have to do; -- in a good sense.
[Obs.]
Barrow.

Study to be quiet, and to meddle with your own business.
Tyndale.

3.
To interest or engage one's self unnecessarily or impertinently, to interfere or busy one's self improperly with another's affairs; specifically, to handle or distrub another's property without permission; -- often followed by with or in.

Why shouldst thou meddle to thy hurt?
2 Kings xiv. 10.

The civil lawyers . . . have meddled in a matter that belongs not to them.
Locke.

To meddle and make, to intrude one's self into another person's concerns. [Archaic] Shak.


word: Meddle₂
definition:
Meddle

Med"dle
v. t.
To mix; to mingle.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.

“Wine meddled with gall.”
Wyclif (Matt. xxvii. 34).


word: Meddler
definition:
Meddler

Med"dler
(?)
n.
One who meddles; one who interferes or busies himself with things in which he has no concern; an officious person; a busybody.


word: Meddlesome
definition:
Meddlesome

Med"dle*some
(?)
a.
Given to meddling; apt to interpose in the affairs of others; officiously intrusive.
Med"dle*some*ness, n.


word: media
definition:
media

me"di*a
(mē"dĭ*ȧ)
n. sing. & pl.
1.
The latinic plural form of medium, sometimes used as a singular noun with the same meaning as medium; as, (Computers) place your installation media into the device which will read it; (Microbiology) the tuberculosis bacterium will only grow in a special media.

2.
The public institutions that report the news, such as newspapers, magazines, radio, and television, collectively; the news media; as, the media were obsessed with Monica Lewinsky for months.


word: Media
definition:
Media

Me"di*a
n.
pl. Mediae (-ē).
[NL., fr. L. medius middle.]
1.
(Phonetics)
One of the sonant mutes β, δ, γ (b, d, g), in Greek, or of their equivalents in other languages, so named as intermediate between the tenues, π, τ, κ (p, t, k), and the aspiratae  (aspirates) φ, θ, χ (ph or f, th, ch). Also called middle mute, or medial, and sometimes soft mute.


word: Mediacy
definition:
Mediacy

Me"di*a*cy
(mē"dĭ*ȧ*s&ybreve_;)
n.
The state or quality of being mediate.
Sir W. Hamilton.


word: Mediaeval
definition:
Mediaeval

Me`di*ae"val
(mē`dĭ*ē"val; 277)
a.
[L. medius middle + aevum age. See Middle, and Age.]
Of or relating to the Middle Ages; as, mediaeval architecture.
[Written also medieval.]


word: Mediaevalism
definition:
Mediaevalism

Me`di*ae"val*ism
(mē`dĭ*ē"val*ĭz'm)
n.
The method or spirit of the Middle Ages; devotion to the institutions and practices of the Middle Ages; a survival from the Middle Ages.
[Written also medievalism.]


word: Mediaevalist
definition:
Mediaevalist

Me`di*ae"val*ist
(mē`dĭ*ē"val*ĭst)
n.
One who has a taste for, or is versed in, the history of the Middle Ages; one in sympathy with the spirit or forms of the Middle Ages.
[Written also medievalist.]


word: Mediaevally
definition:
Mediaevally

Me`di*ae"val*ly
(mē`dĭ*ē"val*l&ybreve_;)
adv.
In the manner of the Middle Ages; in accordance with mediaevalism.


word: Medial
definition:
Medial

Me"di*al
(mē"dĭ*al)
a.
[L. medialis, fr. medius middle: cf. F. médial. See Middle.]
Of or pertaining to a mean or average; mean; as, medial alligation.


word: Median
definition:
Median

Me"di*an
(mē"dĭ*an)
a.
[L. medianus, fr. medius middle. See Medial.]
1.
Being in the middle; running through the middle; as, a median groove.

2.
(Zool.)
Situated in the middle; lying in a plane dividing a bilateral animal into right and left halves; -- said of unpaired organs and parts; as, median coverts.

Median line. (a) (Anat.) Any line in the mesial plane; specif., either of the lines in which the mesial plane meets the surface of the body. (b) (Geom.) The line drawn from an angle of a triangle to the middle of the opposite side; any line having the nature of a diameter. -- Median plane (Anat.), the mesial plane. -- Median point (Geom.), the point where the three median lines of a triangle mutually intersect.


word: Mediant
definition:
Mediant

Me"di*ant
(?)
n.
[L. medians, p. p. of mediare to halve: cf. It. mediante, F. médiante.]
(Mus.)
The third above the keynote; -- so called because it divides the interval between the tonic and dominant into two thirds.


word: Mediastinum
definition:
Mediastinum

Mediastine

{ Me`di*as"tine (?), &VerbarMe`di*as*ti"num (?), }
n.
[NL. mediastinum, fr. L. medius middle; cf. mediastinus helper, a menial servant, LL. mediastinus equiv. to medius: cf F. médiastin.]
(Anat.)
A partition; a septum; specifically, the folds of the pleura (and the space included between them) which divide the thorax into a right and left cavity. The space included between these folds of the pleura, called the mediastinal space, contains the heart and gives passage to the esophagus and great blood vessels.


word: Mediate
definition:
Mediate

Me"di*ate
(?)
a.
[L. mediatus, p. p. of mediare, v. t., to halve, v. i., to be in the middle. See Mid, and cf. Moiety.]
1.
Being between the two extremes; middle; interposed; intervening; intermediate.
Prior.

2.
Acting by means, or by an intervening cause or instrument; not direct or immediate; acting or suffering through an intervening agent or condition.

3.
Gained or effected by a medium or condition.
Bacon.

An act of mediate knowledge is complex.
Sir W. Hamilton.


word: Mediate₂
definition:
Mediate

Me"di*ate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Mediated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mediating.]
[LL. mediatus, p. p. of mediare to mediate. See Mediate, a.]

1.
To be in the middle, or between two; to intervene.
[R.]

2.
To interpose between parties, as the equal friend of each, esp. for the purpose of effecting a reconciliation or agreement; as, to mediate between nations.


word: Mediate₃
definition:
Mediate

Me"di*ate
v. t.
1.
To effect by mediation or interposition; to bring about as a mediator, instrument, or means; as, to mediate a peace.

2.
To divide into two equal parts.
[R.]
Holder.


word: Mediately
definition:
Mediately

Me"di*ate*ly
(?)
adv.
In a mediate manner; by a secondary cause or agent; not directly or primarily; by means; -- opposed to immediately.

God worketh all things amongst us mediately.
Sir W. Raleigh.

The king grants a manor to A, and A grants a portion of it to B. In this case.  B holds his lands immediately of A, but mediately of the king.
Blakstone.


word: Mediation
definition:
Mediation

Me`di*a"tion
(?)
n.
[OE. mediacioun, F. médiation. See Mediate, a.]
1.
The act of mediating; action or relation of anything interposed; action as a necessary condition, means, or instrument; interposition; intervention.

The soul [acts] by the mediation of these passions.
South.

2.
Hence, specifically, agency between parties at variance, with a view to reconcile them; entreaty for another; intercession.
Bacon.


word: Mediative
definition:
Mediative

Me"di*a*tive
(?)
a.
Pertaining to mediation; used in mediation; as, mediative efforts.
Beaconsfield.


word: Mediatize
definition:
Mediatize

Me"di*a*tize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mediatized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mediatizing.]
[Cf. F. médiatiser.]
To cause to act through an agent or to hold a subordinate position; to annex; -- specifically applied to the annexation during the former German empire of a smaller German state to a larger, while allowing it a nominal sovereignty, and its prince his rank.

The misfortune of being a mediatized prince.
Beaconsfield.


word: Mediator
definition:
Mediator

Me"di*a`tor
(?)
n.
[L. mediator: cf. E. médiateur.]
One who mediates; especially, one who interposes between parties at variance for the purpose of reconciling them; hence, an intercessor.

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.
1 Tim. ii. 5.


word: Mediatorial
definition:
Mediatorial

Me`di*a*to"ri*al
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to a mediator, or to mediation; mediatory; as, a mediatorial office.
Me`di*a*to"ri*al*ly, adv.

My measures were . . . healing and mediatorial.
Burke.


word: Mediatrix
definition:
Mediatrix

Mediatress

{ Me`di*a"tress (?), Me`di*a*"trix (?), }
n.
[L. mediatrix, f. of mediator: cf. F. médiatrice.]
A female mediator.


word: Medic
definition:
Medic

Med"ic
(?)
n.
[L. medica, Gr. _; (sc. _;) a kind of clover introduced from Media, from _; Median.]
(Bot.)
A leguminous plant of the genus Medicago.  The black medic is the Medicago lupulina; the purple medic, or lucern, is Medicago sativa.


word: Medic₂
definition:
Medic

Med"ic
(?)
n.
A person who serves to provide medical care.

2.
Specifically:
(Mil.)
A member of the medical corps in the military.

3.
A medical doctor.

4.
A medical student.


word: Medicable
definition:
Medicable

Med"i*ca*ble
(?)
a.
[L. medicabilis, from medicare, medicari, to heal, fr. medicus physician. See Medical.]
Capable of being medicated; admitting of being cured or healed.


word: medicaid
definition:
medicaid

medicaid
n.
A program controlled by the United States government to provide health care for the needy.  It is funded by contributions from the salaries of workers, and is therefore a form of health insurance.


word: Medical
definition:
Medical

Med"ic*al
(?)
a.
[LL. medicalis, L. medicus belonging to healing, fr. mederi to heal; cf. Zend madha medical science, wisdom, Gr. _; to learn, E. mind: cf. F. médical.]

1.
Of, pertaining to, or having to do with, the art of healing disease, or the science of medicine; as, the medical profession; medical services; a medical dictionary; medical jurisprudence.

2.
Containing medicine; used in medicine; medicinal; as, the medical properties of a plant.


word: Medically
definition:
Medically

Med"ic*al*ly
adv.
In a medical manner; with reference to healing, or to the principles of the healing art.


word: Medicament
definition:
Medicament

Med"i*ca*ment
(?)
n.
[L. medicamentum, fr. medicare, medicari, to heal: cf. F. médicament. See Medicable.]
Anything used for healing diseases or wounds, especially a medicine; a medication; a healing application.


word: Medicamental
definition:
Medicamental

Med`ica*men"tal
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to medicaments or healing applications; having the qualities of medicaments.
Med`ica*men"tal*ly, adv.


word: Medicate
definition:
Medicate

Med"i*cate
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Medicated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Medicating (?).]
[L. medicatus, p. p. of medicare, medicari. See Medicable.]

1.
To tincture or impregnate with anything medicinal; to drug.
Medicated
Arbuthnot.

2.
To treat with medicine.


word: Medicean
definition:
Medicean

Med`i*ce"an
(?)
prop. a.
Of or relating to the Medici, a noted Italian family; as, the Medicean Venus.

Medicean planets (Astron.), a name given by Galileo to the satellites of Jupiter.


word: Medicinal
definition:
Medicinal

Me*dic"i*nal
(?)
a.
[L. medicinalis: cf. F. médicinal. See Medicine.]
1.
Having curative or palliative properties; used for the cure or alleviation of bodily disorders; as, medicinal tinctures, plants, or springs.

Drop tears as fast as the Arabian trees
Their medicinal gum.
Shak.

2.
Of or pertaining to medicine; medical.


word: Medicine
definition:
Medicine

Med"i*cine
(?)
n.
[L. medicina (sc. ars), fr. medicinus medical, fr. medicus: cf. F. médecine. See Medical.]
1.
The science which relates to the prevention, cure, or alleviation of disease.

2.
Any substance administered in the treatment of disease; a remedial agent; a medication; a drug; a pharmaceutical; a medicament; a remedy; physic.

By medicine, life may be prolonged.
Shak.

3.
A philter or love potion.
[Obs.]
Shak.

4.
[F. médecin.]
A physician.
[Obs.]
Shak.

5.
(a)
Among the North American Indians, any object supposed to give control over natural or magical forces, to act as a protective charm, or to cause healing; also, magical power itself; the potency which a charm, token, or rite is supposed to exert.

The North American Indian boy usually took as his medicine the first animal of which he dreamed during the long and solitary fast that he observed at puberty.
F. H. Giddings.

6.
Short for Medicine man.

7.
Intoxicating liquor; drink.
[Slang]

Medicine bag, a charm; -- so called among the North American Indians, or in works relating to them. -- Medicine man (among the North American Indians), a person who professes to cure sickness, drive away evil spirits, and regulate the weather by the arts of magic; a shaman. -- Medicine seal, a small gem or paste engraved with reversed characters, to serve as a seal. Such seals were used by Roman physicians to stamp the names of their medicines.


word: Medicine₂
definition:
Medicine

Med"i*cine
v. t.
To give medicine to; to affect as a medicine does; to remedy; to cure.
Medicine
Shak.


word: medick
definition:
medick

medick
n.
Any of several Old World herbs of the genus Medicago having small flowers and trifoliate compound leaves.
[Also spelled medic.]

Syn. -- trefoil.


word: medico
definition:
medico

medico
n.
1.
a student in medical school.

Syn. -- medical student.

2.
A licensed medical practitioner.
[slang]

Syn. -- doctor, doc, physician, MD, Dr.


word: Medicommissure
definition:
Medicommissure

Med`i*com"mis*sure
(?)
n.
[L. medius middle + E. commissure.]
(Anat.)
A large transverse commissure in the third ventricle of the brain; the middle or soft commissure.
B. G. Wildex.


word: Medicornu
definition:
Medicornu

Med`i*cor"nu
(?)
n.
pl. Medicornua (#).
[NL., fr. L. medius middle + cornu horn.]
(Anat.)
The middle or inferior horn of each lateral ventricle of the brain.
B. G. Wilder.


word: Medievalist
definition:
Medievalist

Medievalism

Medieval

{ Me`di*e"val, Me`di*e"val*ism, Me`di*e"val*ist  }
Same as Mediaeval, Mediaevalism, etc.


word: Medina epoch
definition:
Medina epoch

Me*di"na ep"och
(?)
[From Medina in New York.]
(Geol.)
A subdivision of the Niagara period in the American upper Silurian, characterized by the formations known as the Oneida conglomerate, and the Medina sandstone. See the Chart of Geology.


word: Medinilla
definition:
Medinilla

Medinilla
peop. n.
A genus of tropical Old World ornamental evergreen shrubs having fleshy leaves and large panicles of white pink flowers.

Syn. -- genus Medinilla.


word: mediocre
definition:
mediocre

me`di*o"cre
(mē`dĭ*&omacr"kẽr)
a.
[F. médiocre, L. mediocris, fr. medius middle. See Mid.]
Of a middle quality; of but a moderate or low degree of excellence; indifferent; ordinary.
mediocre
Pope.


word: Mediocre
definition:
Mediocre

Me"di*o`cre
n.
1.
A mediocre person; a mediocrity.
[R.]

2.
A young monk who was excused from performing a portion of a monk's duties.
Shipley.


word: Mediocrity
definition:
Mediocrity

Me`di*oc"ri*ty
(?)
n.
[F. médiocrité, L. mediocritas.]

1.
The quality of being mediocre; a middle state or degree; a moderate degree or rate.
mediocrity
Bacon.

2.
Moderation; temperance.
[Obs.]
Hooker.

3.
A mediocre person; -- used disparagingly.


word: Mediostapedial
definition:
Mediostapedial

Me`di*o*sta*pe"di*al
(?)
a.
[L. medius middle + E. stapedial.]
(Anat.)
Pertaining to that part of the columella of the ear which, in some animals, connects the stapes with the other parts of the columella.
n. The mediostapedial part of the columella.


word: Meditate
definition:
Meditate

Med"i*tate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Meditated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Meditating.]
[L. meditatus, p. p. of meditari to meditate; cf. Gr. _; to learn, E. mind.]
To keep the mind in a state of contemplation; to dwell on anything in thought; to think seriously; to muse; to cogitate; to reflect.
Jer. Taylor.

In his law doth he meditate day and night.
Ps. i. 2.


word: Meditate₂
definition:
Meditate

Med"i*tate
v. t.
1.
To contemplate; to keep the mind fixed upon; to study.
meditate
Ecclus. xiv. 20.

2.
To purpose; to intend; to design; to plan by revolving in the mind; as, to meditate a war.

I meditate to pass the remainder of life in a state of undisturbed repose.
Washington.


word: Meditation
definition:
Meditation

Med`i*ta"tion
(?)
n.
[OE. meditacioun, F. méditation, fr. L. meditatio.]
1.
The act of meditating; close or continued thought; the turning or revolving of a subject in the mind; serious contemplation; reflection; musing.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight.
Ps. xix. 14.

2.
Thought; -- without regard to kind.
[Obs.]

With wings as swift
As meditation or the thoughts of love.
Shak.


word: Meditative
definition:
Meditative

Med"i*ta*tive
(?)
a.
[L. meditativus: cf. F. méditatif.]
Disposed to meditate, or to meditation; as, a meditative man; a meditative mood.
Med"i*ta*tive*ly, adv. -- Med"i*ta*tive*ness, n.


word: Mediterranean
definition:
Mediterranean

Med`i*ter*ra"ne*an
(?)
a.
[L. mediterraneus; medius middle + terra land. See Mid, and Terrace.]

1.
Inclosed, or nearly inclosed, with land; as, the Mediterranean Sea, between Europe and Africa.

2.
Inland; remote from the ocean.
[Obs.]

Cities, as well mediterranean as maritime.
Holland.

3.
Of, pertaining to, or located in the Mediterranean Sea or on the adjacent lands; as, Mediterranean trade; a Mediterranean voyage; a Mediterranean plant.


word: Mediterranean fruit fly
definition:
Mediterranean fruit fly

Med`i*ter*ra"ne*an fruit" fly
(?)
n.
A small two-winged fly (Ceratitis capitata), a native of the Mediterranean countries but now widely distributed in warm regions, which can cause great damage to citrus and other succulent fruit crops when present in large numbers.  It is black and white and irregularly banded. It lays eggs in ripening oranges, peaches, and other fruits; when the eggs hatch into larvae (maggots) inside the fruit, they cause the fruit to decay and fall, and make the fruit unsaleable.  It is also popularly called the medfly.
The possibility of infestation by this and other crop pests has caused some states such as California, where fruit is a major export, to ban the importation of fruit from other regions.  Outbreaks of infestation with the medfly have caused California to mobilize major eradication campaigns and have been the subject of political faultfinding.  The eradication tactic, of releasing sterile males to break the reproductive cycle, has been used to deal with outbreaks of the medfly.


word: Medium
definition:
Medium

Me"di*um
(?)
n.
pl. L. Media (#), E. Mediums (#).
[L. medium the middle, fr. medius middle. See Mid, and cf. Medius.]
1.
That which lies in the middle, or between other things; intervening body or quantity.
Hence, specifically:
(a)
Middle place or degree; mean.

The just medium . . . lies between pride and abjection.
L'Estrange.

2.
A substance through which an effect is transmitted from one thing to another; as, air is the common medium of sound.
Hence:
The condition upon which any event or action occurs; necessary means of motion or action; that through or by which anything is accomplished, conveyed, or carried on;
specifically,
in animal magnetism, spiritualism, etc., a person through whom the action of another being is said to be manifested and transmitted.

Whether any other liquors, being made mediums, cause a diversity of sound from water, it may be tried.
Bacon.

I must bring together
All these extremes; and must remove all mediums.
Denham.

3.
An average.
[R.]

A medium of six years of war, and six years of peace.
Burke.

4.
A trade name for printing and writing paper of certain sizes. See Paper.

5.
(Paint.)
The liquid vehicle with which dry colors are ground and prepared for application.

6.
(Microbiology)
A source of nutrients in which a microorganism is placed to permit its growth, cause it to produce substances, or observe its activity under defined conditions; also called culture medium or growth medium.  The medium is usually a solution of nutrients in water, or a similar solution solidified with gelatin or agar.

7.
A means of transmission of news, advertising, or other messages from an information source to the public, also called a news medium, such as a newspaper or radio; used mostly in the plural form, i. e. news media or media.  See 1st media{2}.

Circulating medium, a current medium of exchange, whether coin, bank notes, or government notes. -- Ethereal medium (Physics), the ether. -- Medium of exchange, that which is used for effecting an exchange of commodities -- money or current representatives of money.


word: Medium₂
definition:
Medium

Me"di*um
a.
Having a middle position or degree; mean; intermediate; medial; as, a horse of medium size; a decoction of medium strength.


word: Medius
definition:
Medius

Me"di*us
(?)
n.
pl. Medii (#).
[NL., fr. L. medius middle. See Medium.]
(Anat.)
The third or middle finger; the third digit, or that which corresponds to it.


word: Medjidieh
definition:
Medjidieh

Medjidie

{ Me*dji"di*e, Me*dji"di*eh  }
(?)
n.
[Turk. majīdieh (prop. fem. a., fr. Ar. mejīd glorious); -- so called after the sultan Abdul Mejid, lit., “servant of the Glorious One,” i.e., of God.]
1.
(a)
A silver coin of Turkey formerly rated at twenty, but since 1880 at nineteen, piasters (about 83 cents).
(b)
A gold coin of Turkey equal (in 1913) to one hundred piastres ($4.396 or 18s. 3/4d.); a lira, or Turkish pound.

2.
A Turkish honorary order established in 1851 by Abdul-Mejid, having as its badge a medallion surrounded by seven silver rays and crescents. It is often conferred on foreigners.


word: Medlar
definition:
Medlar

Med"lar
(?)
n.
[OE. medler medlar tree, OF. meslier, F. néflier, L. mespilum, mespilus, Gr. _;, _;.  Cf. Naseberry.]
A tree of the genus Mespilus (Mespilus Germanica); also, the fruit of the tree.  The fruit is something like a small apple, but has a bony endocarp.  When first gathered the flesh is hard and austere, and it is not eaten until it has begun to decay.

Japan medlar (Bot.), the loquat. See Loquat. -- Neapolitan medlar (Bot.), a kind of thorn tree (Crataegus Azarolus); also, its fruit.


word: Medle
definition:
Medle

Med"le
(?)
v. t.
[See Meddle.]
To mix; to mingle; to meddle.
[Written also medly.]
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Medley
definition:
Medley

Med"ley
(?)
n.
pl. Medleys (#).
[OE. medlee, OF. meslée, medlée, mellée, F. mêlée. See Meddle, and cf. Melée, Mellay.]
1.
A mixture; a mingled and confused mass of ingredients, usually inharmonious; a jumble; a hodgepodge; -- often used contemptuously.

This medley of philosophy and war.
Addison.

Love is a medley of endearments, jars,
Suspicions, reconcilements, wars.
W. Walsh.

2.
The confusion of a hand to hand battle; a brisk, hand to hand engagement; a mêlée.
[Obs.]
Holland.

3.
(Mus.)
A composition of passages detached from several different compositions; a potpourri.

&hand_; Medley is usually applied to vocal, potpourri to instrumental, compositions.

4.
A cloth of mixed colors.
Fuller.


word: Medley₂
definition:
Medley

Med"ley
a.
1.
Mixed; of mixed material or color.
[Obs.]
medlé coat
Chaucer.

2.
Mingled; confused.
Dryden.


word: Medoc
definition:
Medoc

Mé`doc"
(?)
n.
[Cf. Mayduke.]
A class of claret wines, including several varieties, from the district of Médoc in the department of Gironde.


word: Medulla
definition:
Medulla

Me*dul"la
(?)
n.
[L.]
1.
Marrow; pith; hence, essence.
[Obs.]
Milton.

2.
(Anat.)
The marrow of bones; the deep or inner portion of an organ or part; as, the medulla, or medullary substance, of the kidney; specifically, the medula oblongata.

3.
(Bot.)
A soft tissue, occupying the center of the stem or branch of a plant; pith.

4.
See medulla oblongata.

Medulla oblongata. [L., oblong medulla] (Anat.), the posterior part of the brain connected with the spinal cord.  It includes all the hindbrain except the cerebellum and pons, and from it a large part of the cranial nerves arise. It controls very largely respiration, circulation, swallowing, and other functions, and is the most vital part of the brain; -- called also bulb of the spinal cord. See Brain.


word: Medullary
definition:
Medullary

Med"ul*la*ry
(?)
a.
[L. medullaris, fr. medulla marrow: cf. F. médullaire.]
1.
(Anat.)
(a)
Pertaining to, consisting of, or resembling, marrow or medulla.
(b)
Pertaining to the medula oblongata.

2.
(Bot.)
Filled with spongy pith; pithy.

Medullary groove (Anat.), a groove, in the epiblast of the vertebrate blastoderm, the edges of which unite, making a tube (the medullary canal) from which the brain and spinal cord are developed. -- Medullary rays (Bot.), the rays of cellular tissue seen in a transverse section of exogenous wood, which pass from the pith to the bark. -- Medullary sheath (Anat.), the layer of white semifluid substance (myelin), between the primitive sheath and axis cylinder of a medullated nerve fiber.


word: Medullated
definition:
Medullated

Me*dul"la*ted
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Furnished with a medulla or marrow, or with a medullary sheath; as, a medullated nerve fiber.


word: Medullin
definition:
Medullin

Me*dul"lin
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. médulline.]
(Bot. Chem.)
A variety of lignin or cellulose found in the medulla, or pith, of certain plants.  Cf. Lignin, and Cellulose.


word: Medusa
definition:
Medusa

Me*du"sa
(?)
n.
[L., fr. Gr. _;.]
1.
(Class. Myth.)
The Gorgon; or one of the Gorgons whose hair was changed into serpents, after which all who looked upon her were turned into stone.

2.
[pl. Medusae (_;).]
(Zool.)
Any free swimming acaleph; a jellyfish.

&hand_; The larger medusae belong to the Discophora, and are sometimes called covered-eyed medusae; others, known as naked-eyed medusae, belong to the Hydroidea, and are usually developed by budding from hydroids. See Discophora, Hydroidea, and Hydromedusa.

Medusa bud (Zool.), one of the buds of a hydroid, destined to develop into a gonophore or medusa. See Athecata, and Gonotheca. -- Medusa's head. (a) (Zool.) An astrophyton. (b) (Astron.) A cluster of stars in the constellation Perseus.  It contains the bright star Algol.


word: Medusiform
definition:
Medusiform

Me*du"si*form
(?)
a.
[Medusa + -form.]
(Zool.)
Resembling a medusa in shape or structure.


word: Medusoid
definition:
Medusoid

Me*du"soid
(?)
a.
[Medusa + -oid.]
(Zool.)
Like a medusa; having the fundamental structure of a medusa, but without a locomotive disk; -- said of the sessile gonophores of hydroids.
n. A sessile gonophore. See Illust. under Gonosome.


word: Meed
definition:
Meed

Meed
(mēd)
n.
[OE. mede, AS. mēd, meord; akin to OS. mēda, OHG. miata, mieta, G. miethe hire, Goth. mizd&omacr reward, Bohem. & Russ. mzda, Gr. misqo`s, Skr. mīdha. √276.]
1.
That which is bestowed or rendered in consideration of merit; reward; recompense.

A rosy garland was the victor's meed.
Spenser.

2.
Merit or desert; worth.

My meed hath got me fame.
Shak.

3.
A gift; also, a bride.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Meek
definition:
Meek

Meek
(mēk)
a.
[Compar. Meeker (mēk"ẽr); superl. Meekest.]
[OE. mek, meoc; akin to Icel. mjūkr mild, soft, Sw. mjuk, Dan. myg, D. muik, Goth. mukam&omacrdei gentleness.]
1.
Mild of temper; not easily provoked or orritated; patient under injuries; not vain, or haughty, or resentful; forbearing; submissive.

Now the man Moses was very meek.
Num. xii. 3.

2.
Evincing mildness of temper, or patience; characterized by mildness or patience; as, a meek answer; a meek face.
meek
Chaucer.


word: Meeken
definition:
Meeken

Meek

{ Meek, Meek"en (-'n) }
v. t.
To make meek; to nurture in gentleness and humility.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Meerkat
definition:
Meerkat

Meer"kat
(mēr"kăt)
n.
[D.]
(Zool.)
A South African carnivore (Suricata suricata, formerly Cynictis penicillata), allied to the ichneumons, having a lemurlike face and only four toes; called also yellow mongoose and suricate.
[Also spelled mierkat.]

While his compatrioits scuffle about in the sand for delicious scorpions or fat, tasty mice, one meerkat stands alone, bolt upright on an exposed perch, scanning for hawks with dark eyes wide, ready to call out at the first sign of danger.  Like other such guards in the animal kingdom, these endearingly vulnerable meerkat sentinels have long impressed biologists as true altruists -- creatures willing to forgo food and brave danger to protect others.
    Now a study in the current Science suggests that these beasts may not be such adorable heroes after all.  Researchers have discovered that meerkats abandon their hunting to act as guards only when their bellies are good and full.  And they appear to do so, not as an act of noble daring, but because by being the first to see a predator, they can be sure of being the first down a hole and out of harm's way.  Standing guard, researchers concluded, may be the safest thing to do once a meerkat has had enough to eat.
   . . .
   Even the adorable meerkat may yet redeem itself as a bit of an altruist.  Although being a sentinel may itself not entail great risk, it is hard to imagine a selfish reason for their giving a shout of warning before dashing for cover.  . . .
Carol Kaesuk Yoon (N. Y. Times, June 8, 1999 p. F3)


word: Meerschaum
definition:
Meerschaum

Meer"schaum
(mēr"sh&asuml_;m; 277)
n.
[G., lit., sea foam; meer sea + schaum foam; but it perh. is a corruption of the Tartaric name myrsen.  Cf. Mere a lake, and Scum.]
1.
(Min.)
A fine white claylike mineral, soft, and light enough when in dry masses to float in water.  It is a hydrous silicate of magnesia, and is obtained chiefly in Asia Minor.  It is manufacturd into tobacco pipes, cigar holders, etc. Also called sepiolite.

2.
A tobacco pipe made of this mineral; a meerschaum pipe.


word: Meet
definition:
Meet

Meet
(mēt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Met (mĕt); p. pr. & vb. n. Meeting.]
[OE. meten, AS. mētan, fr. m&omacrt, gem&omacrt, a meeting; akin to OS. m&omacrtian to meet, Icel. maeta, Goth. gam&omacrtjan. See Moot, v. t.]
1.
To join, or come in contact with; esp., to come in contact with by approach from an opposite direction; to come upon or against, front to front, as distinguished from contact by following and overtaking.

2.
To come in collision with; to confront in conflict; to encounter hostilely; as, they met the enemy and defeated them; the ship met opposing winds and currents.

3.
To come into the presence of without contact; to come close to; to intercept; to come within the perception, influence, or recognition of; as, to meet a train at a junction; to meet carriages or persons in the street; to meet friends at a party; sweet sounds met the ear.

His daughter came out to meet him.
Judg. xi. 34.

4.
To perceive; to come to a knowledge of; to have personal acquaintance with; to experience; to suffer; as, the eye met a horrid sight; he met his fate.

Of vice or virtue, whether blest or curst,
Which meets contempt, or which compassion first.
Pope.

5.
To come up to; to be even with; to equal; to match; to satisfy; to ansver; as, to meet one's expectations; the supply meets the demand.

To meet half way, literally, to go half the distance between in order to meet (one); hence, figuratively, to yield or concede half of the difference in order to effect a compromise or reconciliation with.


word: Meet₂
definition:
Meet

Meet
v. t.
1.
To come together by mutual approach; esp., to come in contact, or into proximity, by approach from opposite directions; to join; to come face to face; to come in close relationship; as, we met in the street; two lines meet so as to form an angle.

O, when meet now
Such pairs in love and mutual honor joined !
Milton.

2.
To come together with hostile purpose; to have an encounter or conflict.

Weapons more violent, when next we meet,
May serve to better us and worse our foes.
Milton.

3.
To assemble together; to congregate; as, Congress meets on the first Monday of December.

They . . . appointed a day to meet together.
2. Macc. xiv. 21.

4.
To come together by mutual concessions; hence, to agree; to harmonize; to unite.

To meet with. (a) To light upon; to find; to come to; -- often with the sense of unexpectedness.
[1913 Webster]
We met with many things worthy of observation. Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
(b) To join; to unite in company. Shak. (c) To suffer unexpectedly; as, to meet with a fall; to meet with a loss. (d) To encounter; to be subjected to.
[1913 Webster]
Prepare to meet with more than brutal fury
From the fierce prince. Rowe.
[1913 Webster]
(e) To obviate. [Obs.] Bacon.


word: Meet₃
definition:
Meet

Meet
n.
An assembling together; esp., the assembling of huntsmen for the hunt; also, the persons who so assemble, and the place of meeting.


word: Meet₄
definition:
Meet

Meet
a.
[OE. mete fitting, moderate, scanty, AS. m&aemacr_;te moderate; akin to gemet fit, meet, metan to mete, and G. mässig moderate, gemäss fitting. See Mete.]
Suitable; fit; proper; appropriate; qualified; convenient.

It was meet that we should make merry.
Luke xv. 32.

To be meet with, to be even with; to be equal to. [Obs.]


word: Meeting
definition:
Meeting

Meet"ing
(mēt"ĭng)
n.
1.
A coming together; an assembling; as, the meeting of Congress.

2.
A junction, crossing, or union; as, the meeting of the roads or of two rivers.

3.
A congregation; a collection of people; a convention; as, a large meeting; an harmonious meeting.

4.
An assembly for worship; as, to attend meeting on Sunday; -- in England, applied distinctively and disparagingly to the worshiping assemblies of Dissenters.


word: Meetinghouse
definition:
Meetinghouse

Meet"ing*house`
(?)
n.
A house used as a place of worship; a church; -- in England, applied only to a house so used by Dissenters.


word: Megalo-
definition:
Megalo-

Mega

Meg-

{ Meg- (mĕg-), Meg"a (mĕg"ȧ-), Meg"a*lo- (mĕg"ȧ*lo̝-) }
[Gr. me`gas, gen. mega`loy, great.]
Combining forms signifying: (a) Great, extended, powerful; as, megascope, megacosm.
(b)
(Metric System, Elec., Mech., etc.)
A million times, a million of; as, megabyte, a million butes; megawatt, a million watts; megameter, a million meters; megafarad, a million farads; megohm, a million ohms.


word: Megacephalous
definition:
Megacephalous

Megacephalic

{ Meg`a*ce*phal"ic (mĕg`ȧ*se̝*făl"ĭk), Meg`a*ceph"a*lous (mĕg`ȧ*sĕf"ȧ*lŭs) }
a.
[Mega- + Gr. kefalh` head.]
(Biol.)
Large headed; -- applied to animals, and to plants when they have large flower heads.


word: Megaceros
definition:
Megaceros

Me*gac"e*ros
(me̝*găs"e̝*r&obreve_;s)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`gas great + ke`ras horn.]
(Paleon.)
The Irish elk.


word: Megachile
definition:
Megachile

Meg"a*chile
(?)
n.
[Mega- + Gr. _; lip.]
(Zool.)
A leaf-cutting bee of the genus Megachilus. See Leaf cutter, under Leaf.


word: Megaderm
definition:
Megaderm

Meg"a*derm
(?)
n.
[Mega- + Gr. _; skin.]
(Zool.)
Any one of several species of Old World blood-sucking bats of the genus Megaderma.


word: Megadyne
definition:
Megadyne

Meg"a*dyne
(?)
n.
[Mega- + dyne.]
(Physics)
One of the larger measures of force, amounting to one million dynes.


word: Megafarad
definition:
Megafarad

Meg"a*far`ad
(?)
n.
[Mega- + farad.]
(Elec.)
One of the larger measures of electrical capacitance, amounting to one million farads; a macrofarad.


word: megakaryocyte
definition:
megakaryocyte

meg`a*kar"y*o*cyte
(mĕg`ȧ*kăr"ĭ*o̝*sīt)
n.
(Anat.)
A large bone marrow cell not usually found in the circulating blood; it is regarded as the precursors of blood platelets; it is up to 100 μm in diameter, with a polyploid nucleus.  Also referred to as megacaryocyte, megalokaryocyte, and thromboblast.


word: Megalesian
definition:
Megalesian

Meg`a*le"sian
(?)
a.
[L. Megalesius, fr. Gr. Mega`lh the Great, a surname of Cybele, the Magna Mater.]
Pertaining to, or in honor of, Cybele; as, the Megalesian games at Rome.


word: Megalethoscope
definition:
Megalethoscope

Meg`a*leth"o*scope
(?)
n.
[Mega- + alethoscope.]
An optical apparatus in which pictures are viewed through a large lens with stereoptical effects.  It is often combined with the stereoscope.


word: Megalith
definition:
Megalith

Meg"a*lith
(?)
n.
[Mega- + -lith; cf. F. mégalithe.]
A large stone; especially, a large stone used in constructing ancient monuments.
Meg`a*lith"ic (#), a.


word: megalithic
definition:
megalithic

megalithic
adj.
Of or pertaining to megaliths or the period during which they were erected; as, megalithic monuments like Stonehenge.


word: Megalobatrachus
definition:
Megalobatrachus

Megalobatrachus
prop. n.
A genus of giant salamanders; in some classifications included in the genus Cryptobranchus.

Syn. -- genus Megalobatrachus.


word: Megalocephaly
definition:
Megalocephaly

Megalocephalia

{ &VerbarMeg`a*lo*ce*pha"li*a (?), Meg`a*lo*ceph"a*ly (?) }
n.
[NL. megalocephalia, fr. Gr. _; having a large head.]
(Med.)
The condition of having an abnormally large head; called also megacephaly.
Meg`a*lo*ce*phal"ic (#), a.


word: Megalocyte
definition:
Megalocyte

Meg"a*lo*cyte
(?)
n.
[Megalo- + Gr. _; a hollow vessel.]
(Physiol.)
A large, flattened red blood cell corpuscle having no nucleus, twice the diameter of the ordinary red corpuscle, found in considerable numbers in the blood in profound anaemia.


word: Megalomania
definition:
Megalomania

Meg`a*lo*ma"ni*a
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. megalo- + mania.]
(Pathol.)
A form of mental alienation in which the patient has grandiose delusions.


word: Megalonychidae
definition:
Megalonychidae

Megalonychidae
prop. n.
A natural family consisting of the two-toed sloths.

Syn. -- family Megalonychidae.


word: Megalonyx
definition:
Megalonyx

Meg`a*lon"yx
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. me`gas, mega`lh, great + 'o`nyx claw.]
(Paleon.)
An extinct quaternary mammal, of great size, allied to the sloth.


word: Megalophonous
definition:
Megalophonous

Meg`a*loph"o*nous
(mĕg`ȧ*l&obreve_;f"o̝*nŭs)
a.
[Megalo- + Gr. fwnh` voice.]
Having a loud voice.


word: Megalopolis
definition:
Megalopolis

Megapolis

Meg`a*lop"o*lis, Meg`a"po*lis
(mĕg`ȧ*l&obreve_;p"o̝*lĭs)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. megalo`polis; me`gas, mega`lh, great + po`lis city.]
1.
A chief city; a very large cuity; a metropolis.

2.
A region in which the suburbs of several large cities merge to form one large predominantly urbanized area.


word: Megalops
definition:
Megalops

Meg"a*lops
(mĕg"ȧ*l&obreve_;ps)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`gas, -a`loy, large + 'w`ps eye.]
(Zool.)
1.
A larva, in a stage following the zoea, in the development of most crabs. In this stage the legs and abdominal appendages have appeared, the abdomen is relatively long, and the eyes are large. Also used adjectively.

2.
A large fish; the tarpum.


word: megalopsychy
definition:
megalopsychy

meg`a*lop"sy*chy
(?)
n.
[Megalo- + Gr. psychh` soul, mind.]
Greatness of soul.
[Obs. & R.]


word: Megalosaurus
definition:
Megalosaurus

Megalosaur

{ Meg"a*lo*saur` (?), &VerbarMeg`a*lo*sau"rus (?), }
n.
[NL. megalosaurus, fr. Gr. me`gas, mega`lh, great + say^ros lizard: cf. F. mégalosaure.]
(Paleon.)
A gigantic carnivorous dinosaur, whose fossil remains have been found in England and elsewhere.


word: Megameter
definition:
Megameter

Me*gam"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Mega- + -meter: cf. F. mégamètre.]
(Physics)
1.
An instrument for determining longitude by observation of the stars.

2.
A micrometer.
[R. & Obs.]
Knight.


word: Megametre
definition:
Megametre

Megameter

{ Meg"a*me`ter, Meg"a*me`tre  }
(?)
n.
[Mega- + meter, metre, n., 2.]
In the metric system, one million meters, or one thousand kilometers.


word: Megaphone
definition:
Megaphone

Meg"a*phone
(?)
n.
[Mega- + Gr. fwnh` voice.]
A device to magnify sound, or direct it in a given direction in a greater volume, as a very large funnel used as an ear trumpet or as a speaking trumpet.


word: Megaphyton
definition:
Megaphyton

Me*gaph"y*ton
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. me`gas great + fyto`n plant.]
(Paleon.)
An extinct genus of tree ferns with large, two-ranked leaves, or fronds.


word: Megapode
definition:
Megapode

Meg"a*pode
(mĕg"ȧ*p&omacrd)
n.
[Mega- + Gr. poy`s, podo`s, foot.]
(Zool.)
Any one of several species of large-footed, gallinaceous birds of the genera Megapodius and Leipoa, inhabiting Australia and other Pacific islands.  Called also mound builder, scrub fowl, moundbird, and brush turkey.  See Jungle fowl (b) under Jungle, and Leipoa.


word: Megapolis
definition:
Megapolis

Me*gap"o*lis
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`gas great + po`lis city.]
A metropolis.
[Obs.]
Sir T. Herbert.


word: Megaric
definition:
Megaric

Megarian

{ Me*ga"ri*an (?), Me*gar"ic (?), }
a.
Belonging, or pertaining, to Megara, a city of ancient Greece.

Megarian school, or Megaric school, a school of philosophy established at Megara, after the death of Socrates, by his disciples, and remarkable for its logical subtlety.


word: Megascope
definition:
Megascope

Meg"a*scope
(?)
n.
[Mega- + -scope: cf. F. mégascope.]
A modification of the magic lantern (projector), used esp. for throwing a magnified image of an opaque object on a screen, solar or artificial light being used.


word: Megascopical
definition:
Megascopical

Megascopic

{ Meg`a*scop"ic (?), Meg`a*scop"ic*al (?) }
a.
1.
(Physics)
Of or pertaining to the megascope or the projection upon a screen of images of opaque objects.
(b)
Enlarged or magnified; -- said of images or of photographic pictures, etc.

2.
(Geol.)
Large enough to be seen; -- said of the larger structural features and components of rocks which do not require the use of the microscope to be perceived. Opposed to microscopic.


word: Megaseme
definition:
Megaseme

Meg"a*seme
(?)
a.
[Mega- + Gr. _; sing, mark: cf. F. mégasème.]
(Anat.)
Having the orbital index relatively large; having the orbits narrow transversely; -- opposed to microseme.


word: Megasthene
definition:
Megasthene

Meg"as*thene
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`gas great + sqe`nos strength.]
(Zool.)
One of a group which includes the higher orders of mammals, having a large size as a typical characteristic.


word: Megasthenic
definition:
Megasthenic

Meg`as*then"ic
(?)
a.
(Zool.)
Having a typically large size; belonging to the megasthenes.


word: Megastome
definition:
Megastome

Meg"a*stome
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`gas great + sto`ma mouth.]
(Zool.)
One of a group of univalve shells, having a large aperture or mouth.


word: Megatherium
definition:
Megatherium

Megathere

{ Meg"a*there (?), &VerbarMeg`a*the"ri*um (?), }
n.
[NL. megatherium, fr. Gr. me`gas great + qhri`on beast.]
(Paleon.)
An extinct gigantic quaternary mammal, allied to the ant-eaters and sloths. Its remains are found in South America.


word: Megatheroid
definition:
Megatheroid

Meg`a*the"roid
(?)
n.
[Megatherium + -oid.]
(Paleon.)
One of a family of extinct edentates found in America. The family includes the megatherium, the megalonyx, etc.


word: Megavolt
definition:
Megavolt

Meg`a*volt"
(?)
n.
[Mega- + volt.]
(Elec.)
One of the larger measures of electro-motive force, amounting to one million volts.


word: Megerg
definition:
Megerg

Meg"erg`
(?)
n.
[Mega- + erg.]
(Physics)
One of the larger measures of work, amounting to one million ergs; -- called also megalerg.


word: Megilph
definition:
Megilph

Megilp

{ Me*gilp" (?), Me*gilph" (?) }
n.
(Paint.)
A gelatinous compound of linseed oil and mastic varnish, used by artists as a vehicle for colors.
[Written also magilp, and magilph.]


word: MEGO
definition:
MEGO

MEGO
(?)
n.
[My eyes glaze over.]
A very dull article, speech, or book, which causes the reader or listener to rapidly lose interest; -- often used of involved discussions of a technical nature, especially in newspapers.
[Acronym, Slang]


word: Megohm
definition:
Megohm

Meg"ohm"
(?)
n.
[Mega- + ohm.]
(Elec.)
One of the larger measures of electrical resistance, amounting to one million ohms.


word: Megrim
definition:
Megrim

Me"grim
(?)
n.
[OE. migrim, migrene, F. migraine, LL. hemigrania, L. hemicrania, hemicranium, Gr. _;; _;- half + _; skull.  See Hemi- and Cranium, and cf. Hemicrania, Migraine.]
1.
A kind of sick or nervous headache, usually periodical and confined to one side of the head; now more commonly called migraine headache or migraine.

2.
A fancy; a whim; a freak; a humor; esp., in the plural, lowness of spirits.

These are his megrims, firks, and melancholies.
Ford.

3.
pl.
(Far.)
A sudden vertigo in a horse, succeeded sometimes by unconsciousness, produced by an excess of blood in the brain; a mild form of apoplexy.
Youatt.


word: Megrim₂
definition:
Megrim

Me"grim
n.
[Etymol. uncertain.]
(Zool.)
The British smooth sole, or scaldfish (Psetta arnoglossa).


word: Meibomian
definition:
Meibomian

Mei*bo"mi*an
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Of, pertaining to, or discovered by, Meibomius.

Meibomian glands, the slender sebaceous glands of the eyelids, which discharge, through minute orifices in the edges of the lids, a fatty secretion serving to lubricate the adjacent parts.


word: Meiny
definition:
Meiny

Meine

{ Mein"e, Mein"y, (_;), }
n.
[OF. maisniée, maisnie. See Menial.]
1.
A family, including servants, etc.; household; retinue; train.
[Obs.]
Chaucer. Shak.

2.
Company; band; army.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Meionite
definition:
Meionite

Mei"o*nite
(?)
n.
[Gr. mei`wn smaller. So called in a allusion to the low pyramids of the crystals.]
(Min.)
A member of the scapolite group, occuring in glassy crystals on Monte Somma, near Naples.


word: Meiosis
definition:
Meiosis

Mei*o"sis
(mi̝*&omacr"sĭs)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. mei`wsis, fr. meioy^n to make smaller, from mei`wn. See Meionite.]
1.
(Rhet.)
Diminution; a species of hyperbole, representing a thing as being less than it really is; understatement; see also litotes.

2.
(Cell Biology)
The cellular process by which a diploid progenitor cell forms haploid gametes, including a division of one diploid cell into two cells, each with one of the homologous sets of chromosomes.


word: Meiostemonous
definition:
Meiostemonous

Mei`o*stem"o*nous
(?)
a.
[Gr. mei`wn smaller + _; warp, thread.]
(Bot.)
Having fever stamens than the parts of the corolla.


word: meiotic
definition:
meiotic

mei*ot"ic
(?)
a.
[See meiosis.]
(Cell Biology)
Of or pertaining to meiosis; as, meiotic division.


word: -meister
definition:
-meister

-meister
suff.
[G., master]
A suffix denoting master or professional practitioner, as in spinmeister or hypemeister.


word: Melaconite
definition:
Melaconite

Me*lac"o*nite
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`las black + _; dust.]
(Min.)
An earthy black oxide of copper, arising from the decomposition of other ores.


word: Melado
definition:
Melado

Melada

{ &VerbarMe*la"da (?), &VerbarMe*la"do (?), }
n.
[Sp., prop. p. p. of melar to sugar, candy, fr. L. mel honey. See Molasses.]
A mixture of sugar and molasses; crude sugar as it comes from the pans without being drained.


word: Melaena
definition:
Melaena

Me*lae"na
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`las, m., me`laina, f., black.]
(Med.)
A discharge from the bowels of black matter, consisting of altered blood.


word: Melam
definition:
Melam

Me"lam
(mē"lăm)
n.
[Cf. F. mélam.]
(Chem.)
A white or buff-colored granular powder, C6H9N11, obtained by heating ammonium sulphocyanate.


word: melamine
definition:
melamine

mel"a*mine
(mĕl"ȧ*mēn)
n.
(Chem.)
A nitrogenous strongly basic chemical substance (C3H6N6), structurally 2,4,6-triamino-1,3,5-triazine, produced from several cyanogen compounds, and obtained as a white crystalline substance; -- formerly supposed to be produced by the decomposition of melam.  Called also cyanuramide.  It is used as one of the starting components (together with formaldehyde) in the preparation of melamine resins, including the commercially marketed Formica (TM).  It is solid at room temperature, and sublimes at temperatures approaching 250° C, decomposing at 345° C.  Density 1.573.
HCP61


word: melamine-fromaldehyde methanal resin
definition:
melamine-fromaldehyde methanal resin

melamine resin

melamine resin
melamine-fromaldehyde methanal resin
n.
A thermosetting plastic formed by the reaction of melamine and formaldehyde.  It is used for molding and for preparing laminated sheets used to surface counter tops, walls, and furniture.  The commercially marketed Formica (TM) is one type of melamine resin.


word: Melampode
definition:
Melampode

Mel"am*pode
(?)
n.
[Gr. melampo`dion; of uncertain origin.]
The black hellebore.
[Obs.]
Spenser.


word: Melampsoraceae
definition:
Melampsoraceae

Melampsoraceae
prop. n.
A natural family of rust fungi.

Syn. -- family Melampsoraceae.


word: Melampyrite
definition:
Melampyrite

Melampyrin

{ Mel`am*py"rin (?), Mel`am*py"rite (?), }
n.
[NL. Melampyrum cowwheat; Gr. me`las black + pyro`s wheat.]
(Chem.)
The saccharine substance dulcite; -- so called because found in the leaves of cowwheat (Melampyrum). See Dulcite.


word: Melanaemia
definition:
Melanaemia

Mel`a*nae"mi*a
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + a"i^ma blood.]
(Med.)
A morbid condition in which the blood contains black pigment either floating freely or imbedded in the white blood corpuscles.


word: Melanagogue
definition:
Melanagogue

Me*lan"a*gogue
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + _; leading, driving, _; to lead.]
(Med.)
A medicine supposed to expel black bile or choler.
[Obs.]


word: Melancholia
definition:
Melancholia

Mel`an*cho"li*a
(?)
n.
[L. See Melancholy.]
(Med.)
A kind of mental unsoundness characterized by extreme depression of spirits, ill-grounded fears, delusions, and brooding over one particular subject or train of ideas.


word: Melancholian
definition:
Melancholian

Mel`an*cho"li*an
(?)
n.
A person affected with melancholy; a melancholic.
[Obs.]
Dr. J. Scott.


word: Melancholic
definition:
Melancholic

Mel"an*chol`ic
(?)
a.
[L. melancholicus, Gr. _;: cf. F. mélancholique.]
Given to melancholy; depressed; melancholy; dejected; unhappy.

Just as the melancholic eye
Sees fleets and armies in the sky.
Prior.


word: Melancholic₂
definition:
Melancholic

Mel"an*chol`ic
n.
[Obs.]
1.
One affected with a gloomy state of mind.
J. Spenser.

2.
A gloomy state of mind; melancholy.
Clarendon.


word: Melancholy
definition:
Melancholy

Mel"an*chol*y
(?)
n.
[OE. melancolie, F. mélancolie, L. melancholia, fr. Gr. _;; me`las, me`lanos, black + _; gall, bile. See Malice, and 1st Gall.]

1.
Depression of spirits; a gloomy state continuing a considerable time; deep dejection; gloominess.
Shak.

2.
Great and continued depression of spirits, amounting to mental unsoundness; melancholia.

3.
Pensive maditation; serious thoughtfulness.
[Obs.]
Melancholy
Milton.

4.
Ill nature.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Melancholy₂
definition:
Melancholy

Mel"an*chol*y
a.
1.
Depressed in spirits; dejected; gloomy dismal.
Shak.

2.
Producing great evil and grief; causing dejection; calamitous; afflictive; as, a melancholy event.

3.
Somewhat deranged in mind; having the jugment impaired.
[Obs.]
Bp. Reynolds.

4.
Favorable to meditation; somber.

A pretty, melancholy seat, well wooded and watered.
Evelin.


word: Melanconiaceae
definition:
Melanconiaceae

Mel`an*co`ni*a"ce*ae
(?)
n. pl.
[NL.]
(Bot.)
A family of fungi constituting the order Melanconiales.
Mel`an*co`ni*a"ceous (#), a.


word: Melanconiales
definition:
Melanconiales

Mel`an*co`ni*a"les
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Melanconium, name of the typical genus, fr. Gr. me`las black + _; dust, in allusion to the dark spores.]
(Bot.)
The smallest of the three orders of Fungi Imperfecti, including those with no asci nor pycnidia, but as a rule having the spores in cavities without special walls.  They cause many of the plant diseases known as anthracnose.


word: Melanesian
definition:
Melanesian

Mel`a*ne"sian
(?)
prop. a.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + _; island. Melanesia was so called from the dark complexion of the natives.]
Of or pertaining to Melanesia.


word: Melanian
definition:
Melanian

Me*la"ni*an
(?)
n.
(Zool.)
One of a family of fresh-water pectinibranchiate mollusks, having a turret-shaped shell.


word: Melanic
definition:
Melanic

Me*lan"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. me`las, -anos, black.]
1.
Melanotic.

2.
(Ethnol.)
Of or pertaining to the black-haired races.
Prichard.


word: Melaniline
definition:
Melaniline

Me*lan"i*line
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A complex nitrogenous hydrocarbon obtained artificially (as by the action of cyanogen chloride on aniline) as a white, crystalline substance; -- called also diphenyl guanidin.


word: Melanin
definition:
Melanin

Mel"a*nin
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black.]
(Physiol.)
A black pigment found in the pigment-bearing cells of the skin (particularly in the skin of the negro), in the epithelial cells of the external layer of the retina (then called fuscin), in the outer layer of the choroid, and elsewhere. It is supposed to be derived from the decomposition of hemoglobin.


word: Melanism
definition:
Melanism

Mel"a*nism
(mĕl"ȧ*nĭz'm)
n.
[Gr. me`las, -anos, black.]

1.
An undue development of dark-colored pigment in the skin or its appendages; -- the opposite of albinism.

2.
(Med.)
A disease; black jaundice. See Melaena.


word: Melanism₂
definition:
Melanism

Mel"a*nism
(mĕl"ȧ*nĭz'm)
n.
(Ethnol.)
The character of having a high degree of pigmentation, as shown in dark skin, eyes, and hair.


word: Melanite
definition:
Melanite

Mel"a*nite
(mĕl"ȧ*nīt)
n.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black: cf. F. mélanite.]
(Min.)
A black variety of garnet.


word: Melanochroi
definition:
Melanochroi

Mel`a*noch"ro*i
(?)
n. pl.
[NL. See Melanochroic.]
(Ethnol.)
A group of the human race, including the dark whites.


word: Melanochroic
definition:
Melanochroic

Mel`a*no*chro"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. melana`chroos; me`las, -anos, black + chroa` color.]
Having a dark complexion; of or pertaining to the Melanochroi.


word: Melanochroite
definition:
Melanochroite

Mel`a*no*chro"ite
(?)
n.
[See Melanochroic.]
(Min.)
A mineral of a red, or brownish or yellowish red color.  It is a chromate of lead; -- called also phoenicocroite.


word: Melanocomous
definition:
Melanocomous

Mel`a*noc"o*mous
(?)
a.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + _; hair.]
Having very dark or black hair; black-haired.
Prichard.


word: Melanoma
definition:
Melanoma

Mel`a*no"ma
(?)
n.
L. pl. -nomata (#)
[NL.; Gr. _;, _;, black + -oma.]
(Med.)
(a)
A tumor containing dark pigment.  Such tumors are usually malignant and often fatal.
(b)
Development of dark-pigmented tumors.


word: Melanorrhoea
definition:
Melanorrhoea

Mel`a*nor*rhoe"a
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + _; to flow.]
(Bot.)
An East Indian genus of large trees. Melanorrhœa usitatissima is the lignum-vitae of Pegu (in Burma), and yields a valuable black varnish.


word: Melanoscope
definition:
Melanoscope

Me*lan"o*scope
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + -scope.]
(Opt.)
An instrument containing a combination of colored glasses such that they transmit only red light, so that objects of other colors, as green leaves, appear black when seen through it.  It is used for viewing colored flames, to detect the presence of potassium, lithium, etc., by the red light which they emit.


word: Melanosis
definition:
Melanosis

Mel`a*no"sis
(?)
[NL., fr. Gr. _; a growing black, fr. me`las, me`lanos, black.]
(Med.)
The morbid deposition of black matter, often of a malignant character, causing pigmented tumors.


word: Melanosperm
definition:
Melanosperm

Me*lan"o*sperm
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + spe`rma seed.]
(Bot.)
An alga of any kind that produces blackish spores, or seed dust.  The melanosperms include the rockweeds and all kinds of kelp.
Mel`a*no*sper"mous (#), a.


word: Melanotype
definition:
Melanotype

Me*lan"o*type
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + -type.]
(Photog.)
A positive picture produced with sensitized collodion on a smooth surface of black varnish, coating a thin plate of iron; also, the process of making such a picture.
[Written also melainotype.]


word: Melanterite
definition:
Melanterite

Me*lan"ter*ite
(?)
n.
(Min.)
A hydrous sulphate of iron of a green color and vitreous luster; iron vitriol.


word: Melanure
definition:
Melanure

Mel"a*nure
(?)
n.
[NL. melanurus, fr. Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + 'oura` tail.]
(Zool.)
A small fish of the Mediterranean; a gilthead. See Gilthead (a).


word: Melanuric
definition:
Melanuric

Mel`a*nu"ric
(?)
a.
[Melam + urea.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a complex nitrogenous acid obtained by decomposition of melam, or of urea, as a white crystalline powder; -- called also melanurenic acid.


word: Melaphyre
definition:
Melaphyre

Mel"a*phyre
(?)
n.
[F., fr. Gr. me`las, me`lanos, black + porphyre porphyry.]
(Min.)
Any one of several dark-colored augitic, eruptive rocks allied to basalt.


word: Melasma
definition:
Melasma

Me*las"ma
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; black spot.]
(Med.)
A dark discoloration of the skin, usually local; as, Addison's melasma, or Addison's disease.
Me*las"mic (#), a.


word: Melassic
definition:
Melassic

Me*las"sic
(?)
a.
[See Molasses.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid obtained from molasses or glucose, and probably identical with saccharic acid (also called D-glucaric acid or tetrahydroxyadipic acid). See Saccharic.


word: Melastoma
definition:
Melastoma

Me*las"to*ma
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`las black + sto`ma mouth.]
(Bot.)
A genus of evergreen tropical shrubs; -- so called from the black berries of some species, which stain the mouth.


word: Melastomaceous
definition:
Melastomaceous

Mel`a*sto*ma"ceous
(?)
a.
(Bot.)
Belonging to the order of which Melastoma is the type.


word: melatonin
definition:
melatonin

mel`a*tonin
n.
(Physiology)
A hormone secreted by the pineal gland.  Chemically it is N-acety-5-methoxytryptamine.  Research has indicated that there are daily rhythms in secretion of melatonin, in particular due to the depressing effect on melatonin production by light received by the retina.  Conversely it appears that melatonin may influence the circadian rhythms of animals.  There is some experimental evidence that administration of melatonin may increase the amount of sleep in people with sleep disorders.  However, the evidence is not convincing and the effect is not profound.  Nevertheless, the deregulation of melatonin and its availability over-the-counter has led to many people taking melatonin to help sleep, without consulting a physician.

A role for melatonin in sleep facilitation has been inferred from its effect on electroencephalogram patterns, but it has not been possible to demonstrate that wakefulness sleep cycles are driven by periodic accumulation, depletion, or regeneration of melatonin.
Uwe Ackermann, Essentials of Human Physiology, 1992


word: Melchite
definition:
Melchite

Mel"chite
(?)
n.
[Heb. melek king.]
(Eccl. Hist.)
One of a sect, chiefly in Syria and Egypt, which acknowledges the authority of the pope, but adheres to the liturgy and ceremonies of the Eastern Church.


word: Meld
definition:
Meld

Meld
(?)
v. t. & i.
[imp. & p. p. Melded; p. pr. & vb. n. Melding.]
[G. melden to announce.]
(Card Playing)
In the game of pinochle, to declare or announce for a score; as, to meld a sequence.
[wns=1]

2.
to mix together so that the components are indistinguishable.
[wns=2]

Syn. -- blend, mix, conflate, commingle, immix, fuse, coalesce, combine, merge.


word: meld
definition:
meld

meld
n.
(Card Playing)
1.
Any combination or score which may be declared, or melded, in pinochle.

2.
A form of rummy using two decks and four jokers; jokers and dueces are wild; the object is to meld groups of seven of the same rank.

Syn. -- canasta, basket rummy.


word: Meleagrididae
definition:
Meleagrididae

Meleagrididae
prop. n.
A natural family of fowls including the turkeys and some extinct forms.

Syn. -- family Meleagrididae.


word: Meleagris
definition:
Meleagris

Mel`e*a"gris
(?)
prop. n.
[L., the Guinea fowl.]
(Zool.)
A genus of American gallinaceous birds, including the common turkey and the wild turkeys.


word: Melee
definition:
Melee

Mê`lée"
(ma̝`la̝")
n.
[F., fr. mêler to mix. See Meddle, Mell, and cf. Mellay.]
1.
A fight in which the combatants are mingled in one confused mass; a hand to hand conflict; an affray.

2.
A cavalry exercise in which two groups of riders try to cut paper plumes off the helmets of their opponents, the contest continuing until no member of one group retains his plume; -- sometimes called Balaklava mêlée.


word: Melene
definition:
Melene

Mel"ene
(?)
n.
[Melissic + ethylene.]
(Chem.)
An unsaturated hydrocarbon, C30H60, of the ethylene series, obtained from beeswax as a white, scaly, crystalline wax; -- called also melissene, and melissylene.


word: Melenite
definition:
Melenite

Mel"e*nite
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`li honey.]
An explosive of great destructive power; -- so called from its color, which resembles honey.


word: Melezitose
definition:
Melezitose

Me*lez"i*tose`
(?)
n.
[F. mélèze the larch + melitose.]
(Chem.)
A variety of sugar, isomeric with sucrose, extracted from the manna of the larch (Larix).
[Written also melicitose.]


word: Meliaceous
definition:
Meliaceous

Me`li*a"ceous
(?)
a.
(Bot.)
Pertaining to a natural order (Meliacae) of plants of which the genus Melia is the type. It includes the mahogany and the Spanish cedar.


word: Meliboean
definition:
Meliboean

Melibean

{ Mel`i*be"an (?), Mel`i*bœ"an  }
a.
[From L. Meliboeus, one of the interlocutors in Virgil's first Eclogue.]
(Rhet.)
Alternately responsive, as verses.


word: Melicerous
definition:
Melicerous

Me*lic"er*ous
(?)
a.
[L. meliceris a kind of tumor, fr. Gr. _;; me`li honey + _; wax.]
(Med.)
Consisting of or containing matter like honey; -- said of certain encysted tumors.


word: Melic grass
definition:
Melic grass

Mel"ic grass`
(?)
(Bot.)
A genus of grasses (Melica) of little agricultural importance.


word: Melilite
definition:
Melilite

Mel"i*lite
(mĕl"ĭ*līt)
n.
[Gr. me`li honey + -lite; cf. F. mélilithe.]
(Min.)
A mineral occurring in small yellow crystals, found in the lavas (melilite basalt) of Vesuvius, and elsewhere.
[Written also mellilite.]


word: Melilot
definition:
Melilot

Mel"i*lot
(-l&obreve_;t)
n.
[F. mélilot, L. melilotus, fr. Gr. _;, _;, a kind of clover containing honey; me`li honey + _; lotus.]
(Bot.)
Any species of Melilotus, a genus of leguminous herbs having a vanillalike odor; sweet clover; hart's clover. The blue melilot (Melilotus caerulea) is used in Switzerland to give color and flavor to sapsago cheese.


word: Melilotic
definition:
Melilotic

Mel`i*lot"ic
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or obtained from, sweet clover or melilot; specifically, designating an acid of the aromatic series, obtained from melilot as a white crystalline substance.


word: Melinae
definition:
Melinae

Melinae
n.
A subdivision of mammals not used in some classifications; it includes the badgers.

Syn. -- subfamily Melinae.


word: Melinite
definition:
Melinite

Mé"lin*ite
(?)
n.
[F.]
(Chem.)
A high explosive similar to lyddite, consisting principally of picric acid, used in the French military service.


word: Meliorate
definition:
Meliorate

Mel"io*rate
(mēl"yo̝*rāt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Meliorated (mēl"yo̝*rā`tĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Meliorating.]
[L. melioratus, p. p. of meliorare to meliorate, fr. melior better; akin to Gr. ma^llon rather, ma`la very.  Cf. Ameliorate.]
To make better; to improve; to ameliorate; to soften; to make more tolerable.

Nature by art we nobly meliorate.
Denham.

The pure and benign light of revelation has had a meliorating influence on mankind.
Washington.


word: Melioration
definition:
Melioration

Mel`io*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. melioratio.]
The act or operation of meliorating, or the state of being meliorated; improvement.
Bacon.


word: Meliorism
definition:
Meliorism

Mel"io*rism
(?)
n.
[From L. melior better.]
The doctrine that there is a tendency throughout nature toward improvement.
J. Sully.


word: Meliority
definition:
Meliority

Mel*ior"i*ty
(?)
n.
[LL. melioritas, fr. L. melior. See Meliorate.]
The state or quality of being better; melioration.
[Obs.]
Bacon.


word: Meliphagan
definition:
Meliphagan

Me*liph"a*gan
(?)
a.
[Gr. me`li honey + _; to eat.]
(Zool.)
Belonging to the genus Meliphaga.


word: Meliphagan₂
definition:
Meliphagan

Me*liph"a*gan
n.
(Zool.)
Any bird of the genus Meliphaga and allied genera; a honey eater; -- called also meliphagidan.


word: Melisma
definition:
Melisma

Me*lis"ma
(?)
n.
pl. Melismata (#).
[NL., fr. Gr. me`lisma a song.]
(Mus.)
(a)
A piece of melody; a song or tune, -- as opposed to recitative or musical declamation.
(b)
A grace or embellishment.


word: Melissa
definition:
Melissa

Me*lis"sa
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`lissa a bee, honey.]
(Bot.)
A genus of labiate herbs, including the balm, or bee balm (Melissa officinalis).


word: Melissic
definition:
Melissic

Me*lis"sic
(?)
a.
[Gr. me`lissa a bee, honey.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or derived from, beeswax; specif., denoting an acid obtained by oxidation of myricin.


word: Melitose
definition:
Melitose

Mel"i*tose`
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`li honey.]
(Chem.)
A variety of sugar isomeric with sucrose, extracted from cotton seeds and from the so-called Australian manna (a secretion of certain species of Eucalyptus).


word: Mell
definition:
Mell

Mell
(?)
v. i. & t.
[F. mêler, OF. meller, mester. See Meddle.]
To mix; to meddle.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Melliferous
definition:
Melliferous

Mel*lif"er*ous
(?)
a.
[L. mellifer; mel, mellis, honey + ferre to bear.]
Producing honey.


word: Mellific
definition:
Mellific

Mel*lif"ic
(?)
a.
[L. mel, mellis, honey + -ficare (in comp.) to make. See -fy.]
Producing honey.


word: Mellification
definition:
Mellification

Mel`li*fi*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[L. mellificare to make honey: cf. F. mellification. See Mellific.]
The making or production of honey.


word: Mellifluent
definition:
Mellifluent

Mel*lif"lu*ent
(?)
a.
[L. mellifluens. See Mellifluous.]
Flowing as with honey; smooth; mellifluous.


word: Mellifluous
definition:
Mellifluous

Mel*lif"lu*ous
(?)
a.
[L. mellifluus; mel, mellis, honey (akin to Gr. _;, Goth. milip) + fluere to flow. See Mildew, Fluent, and cf. Marmalade.]
Flowing as with honey; smooth; flowing sweetly or smoothly; as, a mellifluous voice.
Mel*lif"lu*ous*ly, adv.


word: Melliloquent
definition:
Melliloquent

Mel*lil"o*quent
(?)
a.
[L. mel, mellis honey + loquens speaking, p. pr. of loqui to speak.]
Speaking sweetly or harmoniously.


word: Mellite
definition:
Mellite

Mel"lite
(?)
n.
[L. mel, mellis, honey: cf. F. mellite.]
(Min.)
A mineral of a honey color, found in brown coal, and partly the result of vegetable decomposition; honeystone.  It is a mellitate of alumina.


word: Mellitic
definition:
Mellitic

Mel*lit"ic
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. mellitique. See Mellite.]
(Chem.)
(a)
Containing saccharine matter; marked by saccharine secretions; as, mellitic diabetes.
(b)
Pertaining to, or derived from, the mineral mellite.

Mellitic acid (Chem.), a white, crystalline, organic substance, C6(CO2H)6, occurring naturally in combination with aluminium in the mineral mellite, and produced artificially by the oxidation of coal, graphite, etc., and hence called also graphitic acid.


word: Mellone
definition:
Mellone

Mel"lone
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A yellow powder, C6H3N9, obtained from certain sulphocyanates.  It has acid properties and forms compounds called mellonides.


word: Mellow
definition:
Mellow

Mel"low
(?)
a.
[Compar. Mellower (?); superl. Mellowest.]
[OE. melwe; cf. AS. mearu soft, D. murw, Prov. G. mollig soft, D. malsch, and E. meal flour.]

1.
Soft or tender by reason of ripeness; having a tender pulp; as, a mellow apple.

2.
(a)
Easily worked or penetrated; not hard or rigid; as, a mellow soil.
Mellow
Drayton
(b)
Not coarse, rough, or harsh; subdued; soft; rich; delicate; -- said of sound, color, flavor, style, etc.
mellow
Wordsworth.
mellow
Thomson.

The tender flush whose mellow stain imbues
Heaven with all freaks of light.
Percival.

3.
Well matured; softened by years; genial; jovial.

May health return to mellow age.
Wordsworth.

As merry and mellow an old bachelor as ever followed a hound.
W. Irving.

4.
Warmed by liquor; slightly intoxicated.
Addison.


word: Mellow₂
definition:
Mellow

Mel"low
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mellowed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mellowing.]
To make mellow.
Shak.

If the Weather prove frosty to mellow it [the ground], they do not plow it again till April.
Mortimer.

The fervor of early feeling is tempered and mellowed by the ripeness of age.
J. C. Shairp.


word: mellowed
definition:
mellowed

mellowed
adj.
1.
having a mild and pleasing flavor through proper aging.

Syn. -- mellow.

2.
having attained to kindliness or gentleness through age and experience; -- of people.

Syn. -- gentle, mellow.


word: mellowing₂
definition:
mellowing

mellowing
n.
The act or process of acquiring desirable qualities by being left undisturbed for some time.

Syn. -- ripening, aging, ageing.


word: Melluco
definition:
Melluco

Mel*lu"co
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A climbing plant (Ullucus officinalis) of the Andes, having tuberous roots which are used as a substitute for potatoes.


word: Melocotoon
definition:
Melocotoon

Melocoton

{ Mel`o*co*ton", Mel`o*co*toon"  }
(?)
n.
[Sp. melocoton a kind of peach tree and its fruit, L. malum cotonium, or cotonea, or Cydonia, a quince, or quince tree, lit., apple of Cydonia, Gr. _; _;. See Quince.]
(Bot.)
(a)
A quince.
(b)
A kind of peach having one side deep red, and the flesh yellow.
[Written also malacatoon, malacotune.]


word: Melodeon
definition:
Melodeon

Me*lo"de*on
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; musical. See Melody, and cf. Odeon.]

1.
(Mus.)
A kind of small reed organ; -- a portable form of the seraphine.

2.
A music hall.


word: Melodic
definition:
Melodic

Me*lod"ic
(?)
a.
[L. melodicus, Gr. _;: cf. F. mélodique.]
Of the nature of melody; relating to, containing, or made up of, melody; melodious.


word: Melodics
definition:
Melodics

Me*lod"ics
(?)
n.
The branch of musical science which treats of the pitch of tones, and of the laws of melody.


word: Melodiograph
definition:
Melodiograph

Me*lo"di*o*graph
(?)
n.
[Melody + -graph.]
A contrivance for preserving a record of music, by recording the action of the keys of a musical instrument when played upon.


word: Melodious
definition:
Melodious

Me*lo"di*ous
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. mélodieux. See Melody.]
Containing, or producing, melody; musical; agreeable to the ear by a sweet succession of sounds; as, a melodious voice.
melodious
melodious
Longfellow.
Me*lo"di*ous*ly, adv. -- Me*lo"di*ous*ness, n.


word: Melodize
definition:
Melodize

Mel"o*dize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Melodized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Melodizing (?).]
To make melodious; to form into, or set to, melody.


word: Melodrama
definition:
Melodrama

Mel`o*dra"ma
(?)
n.
[F. mélodrame, fr. Gr. me`los song + dra^ma drama.]
Formerly, a kind of drama having a musical accompaniment to intensify the effect of certain scenes.  Now, a drama abounding in romantic sentiment and agonizing situations, with a musical accompaniment only in parts which are especially thrilling or pathetic.  In opera, a passage in which the orchestra plays a somewhat descriptive accompaniment, while the actor speaks; as, the melodrama in the gravedigging scene of Beethoven's “Fidelio”.


word: Melodramatic
definition:
Melodramatic

Mel`o*dra*mat"ic
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. mélodramatique.]
Of or pertaining to melodrama; like or suitable to a melodrama; unnatural in situation or action.
Mel`o*dra*mat"ic*al*ly (#), adv.


word: Melody
definition:
Melody

Mel"o*dy
(?)
n.
pl. Melodies (#).
[OE. melodie, F. mélodie, L. melodia, fr. Gr. _; a singing, choral song, fr. _; musical, melodious; me`los song, tune + _; song. See Ode.]

1.
A sweet or agreeable succession of sounds.

Lulled with sound of sweetest melody.
Shak.

2.
(Mus.)
A rhythmical succession of single tones, ranging for the most part within a given key, and so related together as to form a musical whole, having the unity of what is technically called a musical thought, at once pleasing to the ear and characteristic in expression.

&hand_; Melody consists in a succession of single tones; harmony is a consonance or agreement of tones, also a succession of consonant musical combinations or chords.

3.
The air or tune of a musical piece.


word: Meloe
definition:
Meloe

Mel"o*e
(?)
[ NL., fr. Gr. _; to probe a wound.]
(Zool.)
A genus of beetles without wings, but having short oval elytra; the oil beetles.  These beetles are sometimes used instead of cantharides for raising blisters. See Oil beetle, under Oil.


word: Melograph
definition:
Melograph

Mel"o*graph
(mĕl"o̝*grȧf)
n.
[Gr. me`los a song + -graph : cf. F. mélographe.]
Same as Melodiograph.


word: Meloidae
definition:
Meloidae

Meloidae
prop. n.
A natural family of insects comprising the blister beetles.

Syn. -- family Meloidae.


word: Melolonthidae
definition:
Melolonthidae

Melolonthidae
prop. n.
A natural subfamily of beetles, considered a separate family in some classification systems.

Syn. -- subfamily Melolonthidae.


word: Melolonthidian
definition:
Melolonthidian

Mel`o*lon*thid"i*an
(mĕl`o̝*l&obreve_;n*thĭd"ĭ*an)
n.
[Gr. mhlolo`nqh the cockchafer.]
(Zool.)
A beetle of the genus Melolontha, and allied genera.  See May beetle, under May.


word: Melon
definition:
Melon

Mel"on
(mĕl"ŭn)
n.
[F., fr. L. melo, for melopepo an apple-shaped melon, Gr. mhlope`pwn ; mh^lon apple + pe`pwn a species of large melon; cf. L. malum apple.  Cf. Marmalade.]

1.
(Bot.)
The juicy fruit of certain cucurbitaceous plants, as the muskmelon, watermelon, and citron melon; also, the plant that produces the fruit.

2.
(Zool.)
A large, ornamental, marine, univalve shell of the genus Melo.

Melon beetle (Zool.), a small leaf beetle (Diabrotiea vittata), which damages the leaves of melon vines. -- Melon cactus, Melon thistle. (a) (Bot.) A genus of cactaceous plants (Melocactus) having a fleshy and usually globose stem with the surface divided into spiny longitudinal ridges, and bearing at the top a prickly and woolly crown in which the small pink flowers are half concealed.  Melocactus communis, from the West Indies, is often cultivated, and sometimes called Turk's cap. (b) The related genus Mamillaria, in which the stem is tubercled rather than ribbed, and the flowers sometimes large. See Illust. under Cactus.


word: Melopiano
definition:
Melopiano

Mel`o*pi*a"no
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`los song + E. piano.]
A piano having a mechanical attachment which enables the player to prolong the notes at will.


word: Meloplastic
definition:
Meloplastic

Mel`o*plas"tic
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to meloplasty, or the artificial formation of a new cheek.


word: Meloplasty
definition:
Meloplasty

Mel"o*plas`ty
(mĕl"o̝*plăs`t&ybreve_;)
n.
[Gr. mh^lon an apple, a cheek + -plasty: cf. F. méloplastie.]
(Surg.)
The process of restoring a cheek which has been destroyed wholly or in part.


word: Melopoeia
definition:
Melopoeia

Mel`o*pœ"ia
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _;; me`los song + poiei^n to make.]
(Mus.)
The art of forming melody; melody; -- now often used for a melodic passage, rather than a complete melody.


word: melosa
definition:
melosa

melosa
n.
A South American herb (Madia sativa) with sticky glandular foliage; it is a source of madia oil.

Syn. -- Chile tarweed, madia oil plant, Madia sativa.


word: Melospiza
definition:
Melospiza

Melospiza
prop. n.
A genus of American song sparrows and swamp sparrows.

Syn. -- genus Melospiza.


word: Melotype
definition:
Melotype

Mel"o*type
(?)
n.
(Photog.)
A picture produced by a process in which development after exposure may be deferred indefinitely, so as to permit transportation of exposed plates; also, the process itself.
[archaic]


word: Melpomene
definition:
Melpomene

Mel*pom"e*ne
(?)
n.
[L., fr. Gr. _;, lit., the songstress, fr. _;, _;, to sing.]
1.
(Class. Myth.)
The Muse of tragedy.

2.
(Astron.)
The eighteenth asteroid.


word: Melt₂
definition:
Melt

Melt
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Melted (obs.) p. p. Molten (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Melting.]
[AS. meltan; akin to Gr. me`ldein, E. malt, and prob. to E. smelt, v. √108.  Cf. Smelt, v., Malt, Milt the spleen.]
1.
To reduce from a solid to a liquid state, as by heat; to liquefy; as, to melt wax, tallow, or lead; to melt ice or snow.

2.
Hence:
To soften, as by a warming or kindly influence; to relax; to render gentle or susceptible to mild influences; sometimes, in a bad sense, to take away the firmness of; to weaken.

Thou would'st have . . . melted down thy youth.
Shak.

For pity melts the mind to love.
Dryden.


word: Melt₃
definition:
Melt

Melt
v. i.
1.
To be changed from a solid to a liquid state under the influence of heat; as, butter and wax melt at moderate temperatures.

2.
To dissolve; as, sugar melts in the mouth.

3.
Hence:
To be softened; to become tender, mild, or gentle; also, to be weakened or subdued, as by fear.

My soul melteth for heaviness.
Ps. cxix. 28.

Melting with tenderness and kind compassion.
Shak.

4.
To lose distinct form or outline; to blend.  See fondue.

The soft, green, rounded hills, with their flowing outlines, overlapping and melting into each other.
J. C. Shairp.

5.
To disappear by being dispersed or dissipated; as, the fog melts away.
Shak.


word: Melting
definition:
Melting

Melt"ing
n.
Liquefaction; the act of causing (something) to melt, or the process of becoming melted.

Melting point (Chem.), the degree of temperature at which a solid substance melts or fuses; as, the melting point of ice is 0° Centigrade or 32° Fahr., that of urea is 132° Centigrade.  Pressure affects the melting point somewhat, and if not specified the melting point is usually taken to be at atmospheric pressure.


word: Melting₂
definition:
Melting

Melt"ing
a.
Causing to melt; becoming melted; -- used literally or figuratively; as, a melting heat; a melting appeal; a melting mood.
Melt"ing*ly, adv.


word: Melting pot
definition:
Melting pot

Melt"ing pot
n.
1.
A vessel in which anything is melted; a crucible.

2.
(Sociology)
(fig.)
A place where people of different backgrounds become similar in culture.  The United States has often been referred to as a melting pot, though the differences in cultures of recently arrived immigrants persists beyond the generation of immigrants.


word: Melton
definition:
Melton

Mel"ton
(?)
n.
[Etymol. uncertain.]
A kind of stout woolen cloth with unfinished face and without raised nap. A commoner variety has a cotton warp.


word: Melungeon
definition:
Melungeon

Me*lun"geon
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. mélanger to mix, mélange a mixture.]
One of a mixed white and Indian people living in parts of Tennessee and the Carolinas.  They are descendants of early intermixtures of white settlers with natives.  In North Carolina the Croatan Indians, regarded as descended from Raleigh's lost colony of Croatan, formerly classed with negroes, are now legally recognized as distinct.


word: Melursus
definition:
Melursus

Melursus
prop. n.
A genus of mammals including the sloth bears; in some classifications not a separate genus from Ursus.

Syn. -- genus Melursus.


word: Melville
definition:
Melville

Melville
prop. n.
Herman Melville, American novelist, author of Moby Dick; b. 1819, d. 1891.

Syn. -- Herman Melville.


word: Member₂
definition:
Member

Mem"ber
n.
[OE. membre, F. membre, fr. L. membrum; cf. Goth. mimz flesh, Skr. mamsa.]

1.
(Anat.)
A part of an animal capable of performing a distinct office; an organ; a limb.

We have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office.
Rom. xii. 4.

2.
Hence:
A part of a whole; an independent constituent of a body
(a)
A part of a discourse or of a period or sentence; a clause; a part of a verse.
(b)
(Math.)
Either of the two parts of an algebraic equation, connected by the sign of equality.
(c)
(Engin.)
Any essential part, as a post, tie rod, strut, etc., of a framed structure, as a bridge truss.
(d)
(Arch.)
Any part of a building, whether constructional, as a pier, column, lintel, or the like, or decorative, as a molding, or group of moldings.
(e)
One of the persons composing a society, community, or the like; an individual forming part of an association; as, a member of the society of Friends.
(f)
(Math.)
one of the elements which, taken together, comprise a set.
(g)
(Math.)
one of the individual objects which comprise a group or class.

Compression member, Tension member (Engin.), a member, as a rod, brace, etc., which is subjected to compression or tension, respectively.


word: Membered
definition:
Membered

Mem"bered
(?)
a.
1.
Having limbs; -- chiefly used in composition.

2.
(Her.)
Having legs of a different tincture from that of the body; -- said of a bird in heraldic representations.


word: Membership
definition:
Membership

Mem"ber*ship
n.
1.
The state of being a member.

2.
The collective body of members, as of a society.


word: Membranaceous
definition:
Membranaceous

Mem`bra*na"ceous
(?)
a.
[L. membranaceus.]

1.
Same as Membranous.
Arbuthnot.

2.
(Bot.)
Thin and rather soft or pliable, as the leaves of the rose, peach tree, and aspen poplar.


word: Membrane
definition:
Membrane

Mem"brane
(?)
n.
[F., fr. L. membrana the skin that covers the separate members of the body, fr. L. membrum. See Member.]
(Anat.)
A thin layer or fold of tissue, usually supported by a fibrous network, serving to cover or line some part or organ, and often secreting or absorbing certain fluids.

&hand_; The term is also often applied to the thin, expanded parts, of various texture, both in animals and vegetables.

Adventitious membrane, a membrane connecting parts not usually connected, or of a different texture from the ordinary connection; as, the membrane of a cicatrix. -- Jacob's membrane. See under Retina. -- Mucous membranes (Anat.), the membranes lining passages and cavities which communicate with the exterior, as well as ducts and receptacles of secretion, and habitually secreting mucus. -- Schneiderian membrane. (Anat.) See Schneiderian. -- Serous membranes (Anat.) , the membranes, like the peritoneum and pleura, which line, or lie in, cavities having no obvious outlet, and secrete a serous fluid.


word: Membraniform
definition:
Membraniform

Mem*bra"ni*form
(?)
a.
[Membrane + -form: cf. F. membraniforme.]
Having the form of a membrane or of parchment.


word: Membranous
definition:
Membranous

Mem"bra*nous
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. membraneux.]
1.
Pertaining to, consisting of, or resembling, membrane; as, a membranous covering or lining.

2.
(Bot.)
Membranaceous.

Membranous croup (Med.), true croup. See Croup.


word: Memento
definition:
Memento

Me*men"to
(?)
n.
pl. Mementos (#).
[L., remember, be mindful, imper. of meminisse to remember. See Mention.]
A hint, suggestion, token, or memorial, to awaken memory; that which reminds or recalls to memory; a souvenir.

Seasonable mementos may be useful.
Bacon.


word: Memento mori
definition:
Memento mori

Me*men"to mo"ri
(?)
[L.]
Lit., remember to die, i.e., that you must die; a warning to be prepared for death; an object, as a death's-head or a personal ornament, usually emblematic, used as a reminder of death.


word: Memnon
definition:
Memnon

Mem"non
(?)
n.
[L., from Gr. _;, lit., the Steadfast, Resolute, the son of Tithonus and Aurora, and king of the Ethiopians, killed by Achilles.]
(Antiq.)
A celebrated Egyptian statue near Thebes, said to have the property of emitting a harplike sound at sunrise.


word: Memoirs
definition:
Memoirs

Memoir

{ Mem"oir (?), or pl. Mem"oirs (?) }
n.
[F. mémoire, m., memorandum, fr. mémoire, f., memory, L. memoria. See Memory.]
1.
A memorial account; a history composed from personal experience and memory; an account of transactions or events (usually written in familiar style) as they are remembered by the writer. See History, 2.

2.
A memorial of any individual; a biography; often, a biography written without special regard to method and completeness.

3.
An account of something deemed noteworthy; an essay; a record of investigations of any subject; the journals and proceedings of a society.


word: memorabilia
definition:
memorabilia

mem`o*ra*bil"i*a
(?)
n. pl.
[L., fr. memorabilis memorable. See Memorable.]
1.
Things remarkable and worthy of remembrance or record; also, the record of them.

2.
Mementos of past events; souvenirs.


word: Memorable
definition:
Memorable

Mem"o*ra*ble
(?)
a.
[L. memorabilis, fr. memorare to bring to remembrance, fr. memor mindful, remembering. See Memory, and cf. Memorabilia.]
Worthy to be remembered; very important or remarkable.
Mem"o*ra*ble*ness, n. -- Mem"o*ra*bly, adv.

Surviving fame to gain,
Buy tombs, by books, by memorable deeds.
Sir J. Davies.


word: Memorandum
definition:
Memorandum

Mem`o*ran"dum
(?)
n.
pl. E. Memorandums, L. Memoranda (#).
[L., something to be remembered, neut. of memorandus, fut. pass. p. of memorare. See Memorable.]

1.
A record of something which it is desired to remember; a note to help the memory.

I . . . entered a memorandum in my pocketbook.
Guardian.

I wish you would, as opportunity offers, make memorandums of the regulations of the academies.
Sir J. Reynolds.

2.
(Law)
A brief or informal note in writing of some transaction, or an outline of an intended instrument; an instrument drawn up in a brief and compendious form.

Memorandum check, a check given as an acknowledgment of indebtedness, but with the understanding that it will not be presented at bank unless the maker fails to take it up on the day the debt becomes due.  It usually has Mem. written on its face.


word: Memorate
definition:
Memorate

Mem"o*rate
(?)
v. t.
[L. memoratus, p. p. of memorare. See Memorable.]
To commemorate.
[Obs.]


word: Memoria
definition:
Memoria

Me*mo"ri*a
(?)
n.
[L.]
Memory.

Memoria technica, technical memory; a contrivance for aiding the memory.


word: Memorial
definition:
Memorial

Me*mo"ri*al
(?)
a.
[F. mémorial, L. memorialis, fr. memoria. See Memory.]

1.
Serving to preserve remembrance; commemorative; as, a memorial building.

There high in air, memorial of my name,
Fix the smooth oar, and bid me live to fame.
Pope.

2.
Contained in memory; as, a memorial possession.

3.
Mnemonic; assisting the memory.

This succession of Aspirate, Soft, and Hard, may be expressed by the memorial word ASH.
Skeat.

Memorial Day. See Memorial Day in the vocabulary.  Also called Decoration Day. [U.S.]


word: Memorial₂
definition:
Memorial

Me*mo"ri*al
n.
[Cf. F. mémorial.]
1.
Anything intended to preserve the memory of a person or event; something which serves to keep something else in remembrance; a monument.
Macaulay.

Churches have names; some as memorials of peace, some of wisdom, some in memory of the Trinity itself.
Hooker.

2.
A memorandum; a record.
[Obs. or R.]
Hayward.

3.
A written representation of facts, addressed to the government, or to some branch of it, or to a society, etc., -- often accompanied with a petition.

4.
Memory; remembrance.
[Obs.]

Precious is the memorial of the just.
Evelyn.

5.
(Diplomacy)
A species of informal state paper, much used in negotiation.


word: Memorial Day
definition:
Memorial Day

Me*mo"ri*al Day
1.
A day, originally May 30, appointed for commemorating, by decorating their graves with flowers, by patriotic exercises, etc., the dead soldiers and sailors who served the Civil War (1861-65) in the United States; Also called Decoration Day. It is a legal holiday in most of the States. In the Southern States, the Confederate Memorial Day is: May 30 in Virginia; April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in North Carolina and South Carolina; the second Friday in May in Tennessee; June 3 in Louisiana.
[U. S.]

2.
A day designated for commemoration of all of the war dead of the United States, clebrated on the last Monday in May in most states.  It supersedes the original Memorial Day celebrated May 30th.


word: Memorialize
definition:
Memorialize

Me*mo"ri*al*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Memorialized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Memorializing (?).]
To address or petition by a memorial; to present a memorial to; as, to memorialize the legislature.
T. Hook.


word: Memorial rose
definition:
Memorial rose

Memorial rose
A Japanese evergreen rose (Rosa wichuraiana) with creeping branches, shining leaves, and single white flowers. It is often planted in cemeteries.


word: Memorist
definition:
Memorist

Mem"o*rist
(?)
n.
[See Memorize.]
One who, or that which, causes to be remembered.
[Obs.]


word: Memorize
definition:
Memorize

Mem"o*rize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Memorized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Memorizing (?).]
[See Memory.]

1.
To cause to be remembered ; hence, to record.
[Obs.]

They neglect to memorize their conquest.
Spenser.

They meant to . . . memorize another Golgotha.
Shak.

2.
To commit to memory; to learn by heart.


word: Memory
definition:
Memory

Mem"o*ry
(?)
n.
pl. Memories (#).
[OE. memorie, OF. memoire, memorie, F. mémoire, L. memoria, fr. memor mindful; cf. mora delay.  Cf. Demur, Martyr, Memoir, Remember.]

1.
The faculty of the mind by which it retains the knowledge of previous thoughts, impressions, or events.

Memory is the purveyor of reason.
Rambler.

2.
The reach and positiveness with which a person can remember; the strength and trustworthiness of one's power to reach and represent or to recall the past; as, his memory was never wrong.

3.
The actual and distinct retention and recognition of past ideas in the mind; remembrance; as, in memory of youth; memories of foreign lands.

4.
The time within which past events can be or are remembered; as, within the memory of man.

And what, before thy memory, was done
From the begining.
Milton.

5.
Something, or an aggregate of things, remembered; hence, character, conduct, etc., as preserved in remembrance, history, or tradition; posthumous fame; as, the war became only a memory.

The memory of the just is blessed.
Prov. x. 7.

That ever-living man of memory, Henry the Fifth.
Shak.

The Nonconformists . . . have, as a body, always venerated her [Elizabeth's] memory.
Macaulay.

6.
A memorial.
[Obs.]

These weeds are memories of those worser hours.
Shak.

To draw to memory, to put on record; to record.  [Obs.] Chaucer. Gower.


word: Memphian
definition:
Memphian

Mem"phi*an
(?)
prop. a.
1.
Of or pertaining to the ancient city of Memphis in Egypt; hence, Egyptian; as, Memphian darkness.

2.
Of or pertaining to the city of Memphis in Tennessee.


word: mem-sahib
definition:
mem-sahib

memsahib

mem"sa`hib, mem"-sa`hib
(mĕm"sä`ĭb)
n.
[Hind. mem-sāhib; mem (fr. E. ma'am) + Ar. çāhib master. See Sahib.]
Lady; mistress; -- used by Hindustani-speaking natives in India in addressing European women.


word: Men₂
definition:
Men

Men
pron.
[OE. me, men. “Not the plural of man, but a weakened form of the word man itself.” Skeat.]
A man; one; -- used with a verb in the singular, and corresponding to the present indefinite one or they.
[Obs.]
Piers Plowman.

Men moot give silver to the poure friars.
Chaucer.

A privy thief, men clepeth death.
Chaucer.


word: Menaccanite
definition:
Menaccanite

Me*nac"can*ite
(?)
n.
[From Menaccan, in Cornwall, where it was first found.]
(Min.)
An iron-black or steel-gray mineral, consisting chiefly of the oxides of iron and titanium. It is commonly massive, but occurs also in rhombohedral crystals.  Called also titanic iron ore, and ilmenite.


word: Menace
definition:
Menace

Men"ace
(mĕn"a̝s; 48)
n.
[F., fr. L. minaciae threats, menaces, fr. minax, -acis, projecting, threatening, minae projecting points or pinnacles, threats.  Cf. Amenable, Demean, Imminent, Minatory.]
The show of an intention to inflict evil; a threat or threatening; indication of a probable evil or catastrophe to come.

His (the pope's) commands, his rebukes, his menaces.
Milman.

The dark menace of the distant war.
Dryden.


word: Menace₂
definition:
Menace

Men"ace
(mĕn"a̝s; 48)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Menaced (āst); p. pr. & vb. n. Menacing (?).]
[OF. menacier, F. menacer. See Menace, n.]
1.
To express or show an intention to inflict, or to hold out a prospect of inflicting, evil or injury upon; to threaten; -- usually followed by with before the harm threatened; as, to menace a country with war.

My master . . . did menace me with death.
Shak.

2.
To threaten, as an evil to be inflicted.

By oath he menaced
Revenge upon the cardinal.
Shak.


word: Menace₃
definition:
Menace

Men"ace
v. i.
To act in threatening manner; to wear a threatening aspect.

Who ever knew the heavens menace so?
Shak.


word: menage₂
definition:
menage

mé`nage"
(ma̝`nȧzh")
n.
[See Menagerie.]
1.
A collection of animals; a menagerie.
[Obs.]
Addison.

2.
A social group living together; a household.

Syn. -- family, household, house.

3.
A menage a trois.


word: menage a trois
definition:
menage a trois

menage-a-trois

mé`nage à` trois"
(ma̝`nȧzh" ȧ trwȧ)
n.
[F., household for three]
1.
A relationship involving three people, especially one in which three people live together and have sexual relations, such as a married couple and a lover of one of the pair.

2.
A single sexual encounter in which three people participate.

3.
[figurative]
An unlikely situation in which a group of three people not normally associated with each other participate in an activity together.

  For the first time in World Championships history, two racers shared the first-place gold medal.  Maier and Kjus arm-in-arm on the podium, with Austrian Hans Knauss just .01 seconds back from making it a menage-a-trois.

Andrew Hood, in (http://classic.mountainzone.com/ski/worldcup/99/worldchamps/superg-m.html)


word: Menagerie
definition:
Menagerie

Men*ag"er*ie
(?)
n.
[F. ménagerie, fr. ménager to keep house, ménage household. See Menial, Mansion.]
1.
A place where animals are kept and trained.

2.
A collection of wild or exotic animals, kept for exhibition.


word: Menaion
definition:
Menaion

Me*na"ion
(me̝*nā"y&obreve_;n)
n.
pl. Menaia (-yȧ).
[NL., from Gr. mhnai^os monthly.]
(Eccl.)
A work of twelve volumes, each containing the offices in the Greek Church for a month; also, each volume of the same.
Shipley.


word: Menald
definition:
Menald

Menild

{ Men"ald (mĕn"ăld), Men"ild (mĕn"ĭld), }
a.
Covered with spots; speckled; variegated.
[Obs.]


word: Mend
definition:
Mend

Mend
(mĕnd)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mended; p. pr. & vb. n. Mending.]
[Abbrev. fr. amend. See Amend.]

1.
To repair, as anything that is torn, broken, defaced, decayed, or the like; to restore from partial decay, injury, or defacement; to patch up; to put in shape or order again; to re-create; as, to mend a garment or a machine.

2.
To alter for the better; to set right; to reform; hence, to quicken; as, to mend one's manners or pace.

The best service they could do the state was to mend the lives of the persons who composed it.
Sir W. Temple.

3.
To help, to advance, to further; to add to.

Though in some lands the grass is but short, yet it mends garden herbs and fruit.
Mortimer.

You mend the jewel by the wearing it.
Shak.


word: Mend₂
definition:
Mend

Mend
v. i.
To grow better; to advance to a better state; to become improved; to recover; to heal.
Shak.

on the mend pred. a. recovering from an illness or injury.


word: Mendacious
definition:
Mendacious

Men*da"cious
(?)
a.
[L. mendax, -acis, lying, cf. mentiri to lie.]
1.
Given to deception or falsehood; lying; as, a mendacious person.

2.
False; counterfeit; containing falsehood; as, a mendacious statement.


word: Mendacity
definition:
Mendacity

Men*dac"i*ty
(?)
n.
pl. Mendacities (#).
[L. mendacitas.]
1.
The quality or state of being mendacious; a habit of lying.
Macaulay.

2.
A falsehood; a lie.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Mendel
definition:
Mendel

Mendel
prop. n.
Gregor Johann Mendel, founder of the science of genetics (1822-1884); Gregor Mendel.

Syn. -- Gregor Mendel.


word: mendelevium
definition:
mendelevium

men*de*le"vi*um
(mĕn*dĕ*lē"vē*ŭ/m)
a.
[From Dmitri Mendeleyev, discoverer of the periodic law.]
(Chem.)
an unstable radioactive element discovered in 1955 and produced artificially only in very small quantities; symbol Md (also Mv).  It is a transuranic element with atomic number 101.  Isotopes 255, 256, 257, and 258 have been prepared.  Md258, the longest-lived, has a half-life of two months.
HCP61


word: Mendelian
definition:
Mendelian

Men*de"li*an
(?)
prop. a.
[See Mendel's law.]
1.
(Biol.)
Pert. to Mendel, or to Mendel's law; as, Mendelian inheritance.

2.
(Biol.)
Behaving or being in accordance with Mendel's laws of inheritance; -- said of the distribution of inherited characteristics and of traits thus distributed.
Men*de"li*an*ism (#), Men*del"ism (#), n.


word: Mendelian character
definition:
Mendelian character

Mendelian character
(Biol.)
A character which obeys Mendel's law in regard to its hereditary transmission.


word: Mendel's law
definition:
Mendel's law

Men"del's law
(?)
A principle governing the inheritance of many characters in animals and plants, discovered by Gregor J. Mendel (Austrian Augustinian abbot, 1822-84) in breeding experiments with peas.  He showed that the height, color, and other characters depend on the presence of determinating factors behaving as units.  In any given germ cell each of these is either present or absent.
The following example (using letters as symbols of the determining factors and hence also of the individuals possessing them) shows the operation of the law: Tallness being due to a factor T, a tall plant, arising by the union in fertilization of two germ cells both bearing this factor, is TT; a dwarf, being without T, is tt. Crossing these, crossbreeds, Tt, result (called generation F1). In the formation of the germ cells of these crossbreeds a process of segregation occurs such that germ cells, whether male or female, are produced of two kinds, T and t, in equal numbers. The T cells bear the factor “tallness,” the t cells are devoid of it.  The offspring, generation F2, which arise from the chance union of these germ cells in pairs, according to the law of probability, are therefore on an average in the following proportions:
1 TT : 2 Tt : 1 tt;
and thus plants pure in tallness (TT) and dwarfness (tt), as well as crossbreeds (Tt), are formed by the interbreeding of crossbreeds. Frequently, as in this example, owning to what is called the dominance of a factor, the operation of Mendel's law may be complicated by the fact that when a dominant factor (as T) occurs with its allelomorph (as t), called recessive, in the crossbreed Tt, the individual Tt is itself indistinguishable from the pure form TT. Generation F1, containing only the Tt form, consists entirely of dominants (tall plants) and generation F2 consists of three dominants (2 Tt, 1 TT) to one dwarf (tt), which, displaying the feature suppressed in F1, is called recessive.  Such qualitative and numerical regularity has been proved to exist in regard to very diverse qualities or characters which compose living things, both wild and domesticated, such as colors of flowers, of hair or eyes, patterns, structure, chemical composition, and power of resisting certain diseases.  The diversity of forms produced in crossbreeding by horticulturists and fanciers generally results from a process of analytical variation or recombination of the factors composing the parental types.  Purity of type consequently acquires a specific meaning.  An individual is pure in respect of a given character when it results from the union of two sexual cells both bearing that character, or both without it.


word: Mendicant
definition:
Mendicant

Men"di*cant
(?)
a.
[L. mendicans, -antis, p. pr. of mendicare to beg, fr. mendicus beggar, indigent.]
Practicing beggary; begging; living on alms; as, mendicant friars.

Mendicant orders (R. C. Ch.), certain monastic orders which are forbidden to acquire landed property and are required to be supported by alms, esp. the Franciscans, the Dominicans, the Carmelites, and the Augustinians.


word: Mendicant₂
definition:
Mendicant

Men"di*cant
n.
A beggar; esp., one who makes a business of begging; specifically, a begging friar.


word: Mendicate
definition:
Mendicate

Men"di*cate
(?)
v. t. & i.
[L. mendicatus, p. p. of mendicare to beg.]
To beg.
[R.]
Johnson.


word: Mendication
definition:
Mendication

Men`di*ca"tion
(?)
n.
The act or practice of begging; beggary; mendicancy.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Mendicity
definition:
Mendicity

Men*dic"i*ty
(?)
n.
[L. mendicitas: cf. F. mendicité. See Mendicant.]
The practice of begging; the life of a beggar; mendicancy.
Rom. of R.


word: Menge
definition:
Menge

Menge
(mĕnj)
v. i.
[imp. Mente, Meinte; p. p. Ment, Meint.]
[See Mingle.]
To mix.
[Obs.]
Spenser.


word: menhaden
definition:
menhaden

men*ha"den
(?)
n.
(Zool.)
An American marine fish (Brevoortia tyrannus) of the Herring family (Clupeidae), chiefly valuable for its oil and as a component of fertilizers; -- called also mossbunker, bony fish, chebog, pogy, hardhead, whitefish, etc.


word: Menhir
definition:
Menhir

Men"hir
(?)
n.
[F. Armor. men stone + hir high.]
A large stone set upright in olden times as a memorial or monument.  Many, of unknown date, are found in Brittany and throughout Northern Europe.


word: Menial
definition:
Menial

Men"ial
(?)
a.
[OE. meneal, fr. meine, maine, household, OF. maisniée, maisnie, LL. mansionaticum. See Mansion, and cf. Meine, n., Meiny.]

1.
Belonging to a retinue or train of servants; performing servile office; serving.

Two menial dogs before their master pressed.
Dryden.

2.
Pertaining to servants, esp. domestic servants; servile; low; mean; as, menial tasks.
Menial
Swift.


word: Menial₂
definition:
Menial

Men"ial
n.
1.
A domestic servant or retainer, esp. one of humble rank; one employed in low or servile offices.

2.
A person of a servile character or disposition.


word: Meniere's disease
definition:
Meniere's disease

Mé`nière's" dis*ease"
(?)
(Med.)
A disease characterized by deafness and vertigo, resulting in incoordination of movement.  It is supposed to depend upon a morbid condition of the semicircular canals of the internal ear.  Named after Ménière, a French physician.


word: Menilite
definition:
Menilite

Men"i*lite
(?)
n.
[F. ménilite; -- so called because it is found at Ménilmontant, near Paris.]
(Min.)
See Opal.


word: Meninges
definition:
Meninges

Me*nin"ges
(me̝*nĭn"jēz)
n. pl.
sing. Meninx (me̝*nĭ&nsmacr_;ks")
[NL., fr. Gr. mh^nigx, mh^niggos, a membrane.]
(Anat.)
The three membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord; the pia mater, dura mater, and arachnoid membrane.


word: Meningitis
definition:
Meningitis

Men`in*gi"tis
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meninges, and -itis.]
(Med.)
Inflammation of the membranes of the brain or spinal cord.

Cerebro-spinal meningitis. See under Cerebro-spinal.


word: Meniscus
definition:
Meniscus

Me*nis"cus
(?)
n.
pl. L. Menisci (-sī), E. Meniscuses (#).
[NL., from Gr. mhni`skos, dim. of mh`nh the moon.]
1.
A crescent.

2.
(Opt.)
A lens convex on one side and concave on the other.

3.
(Anat.)
An interarticular synovial cartilage or membrane; esp., one of the intervertebral synovial disks in some parts of the vertebral column of birds.

Converging meniscus, Diverging meniscus. See Lens.


word: Menispermaceous
definition:
Menispermaceous

Men`i*sper*ma"ceous
(?)
a.
[Gr. mh`nh the moon + spe`rma seed.]
(Bot.)
Pertaining to a natural order (Menispermaceae) of climbing plants of which moonseed (Menispermum) is the type.


word: Menispermic
definition:
Menispermic

Men`i*sper"mic
(_;)
a.
Pertaining to, or obtained from, moonseed (Menispermum), or other plants of the same family, as the Anamirta Cocculus.


word: Menispermine
definition:
Menispermine

Men`i*sper"mine
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. ménispermine.]
(Chem.)
An alkaloid distinct from picrotoxin and obtained from the cocculus indicus (the fruit of Anamirta Cocculus, formerly Menispermum Cocculus) as a white, crystalline, tasteless powder; -- called also menispermina.


word: Meniver
definition:
Meniver

Men"i*ver
(?)
n.
[OF. menuver, menuveir, menuvair, a grayish fur; menu small + vair a kind of fur. See Minute, a., and Vair.]
Same as Miniver.


word: Mennonite
definition:
Mennonite

Mennonist

{ Men"non*ist (?), Men"non*ite (?), }
n.
(Eccl. Hist.)
One of a small denomination of Christians, so called from Menno Simons of Friesland, their founder.  They believe that the New Testament is the only rule of faith, that there is no original sin, that infants should not be baptized, and that Christians ought not to take oath, hold office, or render military service.


word: Menobranchus
definition:
Menobranchus

menobranch

{ men"o*branch (?), &VerbarMen`o*bran"chus (?), }
n.
[NL. menobranchus, fr. Gr. _; to remain + _; a gill.]
(Zool.)
A large aquatic American salamander of the genus Necturus, having permanent external gills.


word: Menology
definition:
Menology

Menologium

{ &VerbarMen`o*lo"gi*um (?), Me*nol"o*gy (?), }
n.
pl. L. Menologia (#), E. Menologies (#).
[NL. menologium, fr. Gr. mh`n month + lo`gos discourse : cf. F. ménologe.]
1.
A register of months.
Bp. Stillingfleet.

2.
(Gr. Church)
A brief calendar of the lives of the saints for each day in the year, or a simple remembrance of those whose lives are not written.


word: Menopause
definition:
Menopause

Men"o*pause
(?)
n.
[Gr. mh`n month + _; to cause to cease. See Menses.]
(Med.)
The period of natural cessation of menstruation. See Change of life, under Change.


word: Menopome
definition:
Menopome

Menopoma

{ &VerbarMen`o*po"ma (?), Men"o*pome (?), }
n.
[NL. menopoma, fr. Gr. _; to remain + _; lid.]
(Zool.)
The hellbender.


word: Menorrhagia
definition:
Menorrhagia

Men`or*rha"gi*a
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. mh`n month + _; to break.]
(Med.)
(a)
Profuse menstruation.
(b)
Any profuse bleeding from the uterus; Metrorrhagia.


word: Menostasis
definition:
Menostasis

Me*nos"ta*sis
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. mh`n month + 'ista`nai to stop.]
(Med.)
Stoppage of the menses.


word: Men-pleaser
definition:
Men-pleaser

Men"-pleas`er
(?)
n.
One whose motive is to please men or the world, rather than God.
Eph. vi. 6.


word: Mensal
definition:
Mensal

Men"sal
(?)
a.
[L. mensalis, fr. mensa table.]
Belonging to the table; transacted at table; as, mensal conversation.


word: Mense
definition:
Mense

Mense
(?)
n.
[OE. menske, AS. mennisc human, man. See Man.]
Manliness; dignity; comeliness; civility.
[Prov. Eng. & Scot.]
Mense"ful (#), a. -- Mense"less, a.


word: Menses
definition:
Menses

Men"ses
(?)
n. pl.
[L. mensis month, pl. menses months, and the monthly courses of women.  Cf. Month.]
(Med.)
The catamenial or menstrual discharge, a periodic flow of blood or bloody fluid from the uterus or female generative organs.


word: Menstrual
definition:
Menstrual

Men"stru*al
(?)
a.
[L. menstrualis: cf. F. menstruel. See Menstruous.]
1.
Recurring once a month; monthly; gone through in a month; as, the menstrual revolution of the moon; pertaining to monthly changes; as, the menstrual equation of the sun's place.

2.
Of or pertaining to the menses; as, menstrual discharges; the menstrual period.

3.
Of or pertaining to a menstruum.
Bacon.


word: Menstruant
definition:
Menstruant

Men"stru*ant
(?)
a.
[L. menstruans, p. pr. of menstruare to have a monthly term, fr. menstruus. See Menstruous.]
Subject to monthly flowing or menses.


word: Menstruate₂
definition:
Menstruate

Men"stru*ate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Menstruated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Menstruating (?).]
To discharge the menses; to have the catamenial flow.


word: menstruating
definition:
menstruating

menstruating
adj.
discharging menstrual fluid; -- of women during their menstrual period.

Syn. -- unwell.


word: Menstruation
definition:
Menstruation

Men`stru*a"tion
(?)
n.
The discharge of the menses; also, the state or the period of menstruating.


word: Menstruous
definition:
Menstruous

Men"stru*ous
(?)
a.
[L. menstruus, fr. mensis month.  Cf. Menstruum.]
1.
Having the monthly flow or discharge; menstruating.

2.
Of or pertaining to the monthly flow; catamenial.


word: Menstruum
definition:
Menstruum

Men"stru*um
(?)
n.
pl. E. Menstruums (#), L. Menstrua (#).
[L. menstruus. See Menstruous.]
Any substance which dissolves a solid body; a solvent.

The proper menstruum to dissolve metal.
Bacon.

All liquors are called menstruums which are used as dissolvents, or to extract the virtues of ingredients by infusion or decoction.
Quincy.

&hand_; The use is supposed to have originated in some notion of the old chemists about the influence of the moon in the preparation of dissolvents.
Johnson.


word: Mensurable
definition:
Mensurable

Men"su*ra*ble
(?)
a.
[L. mensurabilis, fr. mensurare to measure, fr. mensura measure: cf. F. mensurable. See Measurable, Measure.]
Capable of being measured; measurable.


word: Mensurate
definition:
Mensurate

Men"su*rate
(?)
v. t.
[L. mensuratus, p. p. of mensurare. See Measure, v.]
To measure.
[Obs.]


word: Mensuration
definition:
Mensuration

Men`su*ra"tion
(?)
n.
[L. mensuratio : cf. F. mensuration.]
1.
The act, process, or art, of measuring.

2.
That branch of applied geometry which gives rules for finding the length of lines, the areas of surfaces, or the volumes of solids, from certain simple data of lines and angles.


word: -ment
definition:
-ment

-ment
(?)
[F. -ment, L. -mentum.]
A suffix denoting that which does a thing; an act or process; the result of an act or process; state or condition; as, aliment, that which nourishes, ornament, increment; fragment, piece broken, segment; abridgment, act of abridging, imprisonment, movement, adjournment; amazement, state of being amazed, astonishment.


word: Mental
definition:
Mental

Men"tal
(?)
a.
[L. mentum the chin.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the chin; genian; as, the mental nerve; the mental region.


word: Mental₃
definition:
Mental

Men"tal
a.
[F., fr. L. mentalis, fr. mens, mentis, the mind; akin to E. mind. See Mind.]
Of or pertaining to the mind; intellectual; as, mental faculties; mental operations, conditions, or exercise.

What a mental power
This eye shoots forth!
Shak.

Mental alienation, insanity. -- Mental arithmetic, the art or practice of solving arithmetical problems by mental processes, unassisted by written figures.


word: mentalism
definition:
mentalism

mentalism
n.
1.
a doctrine that mind is the only true reality and that objects exist only as aspects of the mind's awareness.

2.
Any theory of psychology that accepts introspective data about the functioning of the mind as a valid object of study; contrasted to behaviorism.


word: mentation
definition:
mentation

men*ta"tion
(mĕn*tā"shŭn)
n.
the process of thinking (especially thinking carefully); mental activity.

Syn. -- thinking, thought, cerebration, intellection.


word: Mentha
definition:
Mentha

Men"tha
(?)
n.
[L. See Mint the plant.]
(Bot.)
A widely distributed genus of fragrant herbs, including the peppermint, spearmint, etc. The plants have small flowers, usually arranged in dense axillary clusters.


word: Menthene
definition:
Menthene

Men"thene
(?)
n.
[Menthol + terpene.]
(Chem.)
A colorless liquid hydrocarbon resembling oil of turpentine, obtained by dehydrating menthol. It has an agreeable odor and a cooling taste.


word: menthol
definition:
menthol

men"thol
(?)
n.
[Mentha + -ol.]
(Chem.)
A white, crystalline, aromatic substance (C10H20O) resembling camphor, extracted from oil of peppermint (Mentha); -- called also mint camphor or peppermint camphor.  It has the peculiar effect on skin and membranes of making them feel cool, and is used in liqueurs, confections, cigarettes, cough drops and perfumes, among other things.


word: Menticirrhus
definition:
Menticirrhus

Menticirrhus
prop. n.
A genus of kingfishes, including the whiting.

Syn. -- genus Menticirrhus.


word: Menticultural
definition:
Menticultural

Men`ti*cul"tur*al
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to mental culture; serving to improve or strengthen the mind.
[R.]


word: Mention
definition:
Mention

Men"tion
(?)
n.
[OE. mencioun, F. mention, L. mentio, from the root of meminisse to remember. See Mind.]
A speaking or notice of anything, -- usually in a brief or cursory manner. Used especially in the phrase to make mention of.

I will make mention of thy righteousness.
Ps. lxxi. 16.

And sleep in dull, cold marble, where no mention
Of me more must be heard of.
Shak.


word: Mention₂
definition:
Mention

Men"tion
(mĕn"shŭn)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mentioned (mĕn"shŭnd); p. pr. & vb. n. Mentioning.]
[Cf. F. mentionner.]
To make mention of; to speak briefly of; to name.

I will mention the loving-kindnesses of the Lord.
Is. lxiii. 7.


word: Mentomeckelian
definition:
Mentomeckelian

Men`to*meck*e"li*an
(?)
a.
[1st mental + Meckelian.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the chin and lower jaw.
n. The bone or cartilage forming the anterior extremity of the lower jaw in some adult animals and the young of others.


word: Mentor
definition:
Mentor

Men"tor
(?)
n.
[From Mentor, the counselor of Telemachus, Gr. Me`ntwr, prop., counselor.  Cf. Monitor.]
A wise and faithful counselor or monitor.


word: mentum
definition:
mentum

men"tum
(?)
n.
[L., chin.]
(Zool.)
The front median plate of the labium in insects. See Labium.


word: Mentzelia
definition:
Mentzelia

Mentzelia
prop. n.
A genus of bristly herbs or subshrubs of Western America lacking stinging hairs.

Syn. -- genus Mentzelia.


word: menu
definition:
menu

men"u
(mĕn"yō)
n.
[F., slender, thin, minute. See 4th Minute.]
1.
The details of a banquet; a list of the dishes served at a meal, whether or not one has a choice.

2.
Any list of objects, activities, etc. from which to choose; a selection of alternatives.

3.
Hence:
A list of dishes form which to choose at a restaurant; a bill of fare.

4.
Hence:
(Computers)
A list displayed on the computer screen, by which a program provides the user with different options for processing by the program.  It usually includes a mechanism, such as pointing by a mouse or selection by arrow keys, to select the desired option from those on the list.  Depending on how the menu is displayed, it may be a pop-up menu or pull-down menu.


word: Menurae
definition:
Menurae

Menurae
prop. n.
A suborder of birds including lyrebirds and scrubbirds.

Syn. -- suborder Menurae.


word: Menuridae
definition:
Menuridae

Menuridae
prop. n.
A natural family of birds including the lyrebirds.

Syn. -- family Menuridae.


word: Menyanthes
definition:
Menyanthes

Menyanthes
prop. n.
The type genus of the Menyanthaceae, having only one species: the bogbeans.

Syn. -- genus Menyanthes.


word: Menziesia
definition:
Menziesia

Menziesia
prop. n.
A genus of deciduous shrubs of North America and eastern Asia.

Syn. -- genus Menziesia.


word: mepacrine
definition:
mepacrine

mepacrine
n.
Quinacrine, a drug once used to treat malaria; Atabrine is a trademark.

Syn. -- quinacrine, Atabrine.


word: meperidine
definition:
meperidine

meperidine
n.
A synthetic narcotic drug used as a sedative; Demerol is the trademark of a brand of meperidine.

Syn. -- meperidine hydrochloride, Demerol.


word: Mephistophelian
definition:
Mephistophelian

Mephistophelean

Meph`is*to*phe"le*an, Meph`is*to*phe"li*an
(? or ?)
prop. a.
Pertaining to, or resembling, the devil Mephistopheles, “a crafty, scoffing, relentless fiend;” devilish in character or aspect; crafty; showing cunning or ingenuity or wickedness; as, a mephistophelean glint in his eye.

Syn. -- devilish, diabolic, diabolical, mephistophelean.


word: Mephistopheles
definition:
Mephistopheles

Meph*is*toph"e*les
(mĕf*ĭs*tof"e̝*lēz)
[Written Mephostophilus in Shakespeare, Fletcher etc., Mephostophilis in Marlowe, but now generally Mephistopheles, as in Goethe: a made-up name, like most of the names of the medieval devils, but supposed by some to be formed (irregularly) from Gr. mh`, not, fw^s (fwt-), light, and fi`los, loving.]
A familiar spirit mentioned in the old legend of Sir John Faustus, and a principal agent in Marlowe's play Dr. Faustus and in Goethe's Faust.  In medieval demonology, he was one of the seven chief devils.

    He is frequently referred to as “the Devil,” but it was well understood that he was only a devil.  Goethe took only the name and a few circumstances connected with the first appearance of Mephistopheles from the legend: the character, from first to last, is his own creation; and, in his own words, “on account of the irony and knowledge of the world it displays, is not easily comprehended.”  Although he sometimes slyly used it (though less frequently than Faust) as a mask through which to speak with his own voice, he evidently drew the germ of some characteristics from his early associate, Merck.  . . .  The original form of this name was Mephostophiles.  There has been much discussion in regard to its meaning, but Düntzen's conjecture is probably correct, -- that it was imperfectly formed by some one who knew little Greek, and was intended to signify “not loving the light.”
B. Taylor, Notes to Faust.


word: Mephitical
definition:
Mephitical

Mephitic

{ Me*phit"ic (?), Me*phit"ic*al (?), }
a.
[L. mephiticus, fr. mephitis mephitis: cf. F. méphitique.]
1.
Tending to destroy life; poisonous; noxious; as, mephitic exhalations; mephitic regions.

2.
Offensive to the smell; as, mephitic odors.

Mephitic air (Chem.), carbon dioxide; -- so called because of its deadly suffocating power. See Carbonic acid, under Carbonic.


word: Mephitinae
definition:
Mephitinae

Mephitinae
prop. n.
A subfamily of mammals including the skunks; it is a subdivision not used in some classifications.

Syn. -- subfamily Mephitinae.


word: Mephitis
definition:
Mephitis

Me*phi"tis
(?)
n.
[L. mephitis : cf. F. méphitis.]
1.
Noxious, pestilential, or foul exhalations from decomposing substances, filth, or other source.

2.
(Zool.)
A genus of mammals, including the skunks.


word: Meracious
definition:
Meracious

Me*ra"cious
(?)
a.
[L. meracus, fr. merus pure, inmixed.]
Being without mixture or adulteration; hence, strong; racy.
[Obs.]


word: Mercable
definition:
Mercable

Mer"ca*ble
(?)
a.
[L. mercabilis, fr. mercari to trade, traffic, buy. See Merchant.]
Capable of being bought or sold.
[Obs.]


word: merbromine
definition:
merbromine

merbromine
n.
A mercurial compound applied topically as an antiseptic; Mercurochrome is the trademark.

Syn. -- Mercurochrome.


word: Mercantile
definition:
Mercantile

Mer"can*tile
(?; 277)
a.
[F. mercantile, It. mercantile, fr. L. mercans, -antis, p. pr. of mercari to traffic. See Merchant.]
Of or pertaining to merchants, or the business of merchants; having to do with trade, or the buying and selling of commodities; commercial.

The expedition of the Argonauts was partly mercantile, partly military.
Arbuthnot.

Mercantile agency, an agency for procuring information of the standing and credit of merchants in different parts of the country, for the use of dealers who sell to them. -- Mercantile marine, the persons and vessels employed in commerce, taken collectively. -- Mercantile paper, the notes or acceptances given by merchants for goods bought, or received on consignment; drafts on merchants for goods sold or consigned. McElrath.


word: Mercaptal
definition:
Mercaptal

Mer*cap"tal
(?)
n.
[Mercaptan + aldehyde.]
(Chem.)
Any one of a series of compounds of mercaptans with aldehydes.


word: Mercaptan
definition:
Mercaptan

Mer*cap"tan
(?)
n.
[F., fr. NL. mercurius mercury + L. captans, p. pr. of captare to seize, v. intens. fr. capere.]
(Chem.)
Any one of series of compounds having an -SH radical attached to a carbon atom, also considered as hydrosulphides of alcohol radicals, in composition resembling the alcohols, but containing sulphur in place of oxygen, and hence called also the sulphur alcohols.  In general, they are colorless liquids having a strong, repulsive, garlic odor.  The name is specifically applied to ethyl mercaptan, C2H5SH.  So called from its avidity for mercury, and other metals.


word: Mercaptide
definition:
Mercaptide

Mer*cap"tide
(? or ?)
n.
(Chem.)
A compound of mercaptan formed by replacing its sulphur hydrogen by a metal; as, potassium mercaptide, C2H5SK.


word: Mercat
definition:
Mercat

Mer"cat
(?)
n.
[L. mercatus : cf. It. mercato. See Market.]
Market; trade.
[Obs.]
Bp. Sprat.


word: Mercator's chart
definition:
Mercator's chart

Mer*ca"tor's chart"
(?)
See under Chart, and see Mercator's projection, under Projection.


word: Mercenary
definition:
Mercenary

Mer"ce*na*ry
(?)
a.
[OE. mercenarie, F. mercenaire, fr. L. mercenarius, fr. merces wages, reward. See Mercy.]
1.
Acting for reward; serving for pay; paid; hired; hireling; venal; as, mercenary soldiers.

2.
Hence:
Moved primarily by considerations of pay or profit; greedy of gain; sordid; selfish.
Shak.

For God forbid I should my papers blot
With mercenary lines, with servile pen.
Daniel.


word: Mercenary₂
definition:
Mercenary

Mer"ce*na*ry
(?)
n.
pl. Mercenaries (_;).
One who is hired; a hireling; especially, a soldier hired into foreign service.
Milman.


word: Mercer
definition:
Mercer

Mer"cer
(?)
n.
[F. mercier, fr. L. merx, mercis, wares, merchandise. See Merchant.]
Originally, a dealer in any kind of goods or wares; now restricted to a dealer in textile fabrics, as silks or woolens.
[Eng.]


word: Mercerize
definition:
Mercerize

Mer"cer*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. -ized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. -izing (?).]
[From (John) Mercer (1791-1866), an English calico printer who introduced the process + -ize.]
To treat (cotton fiber or fabrics) with a solution of caustic alkali.  Such treatment causes the fiber to shrink in length and become stronger and more receptive of dyes. If the yarn or cloth is kept under tension during the process, it assumes a silky luster.
Mer`cer*i*za"tion (#), n.


word: Merchandise
definition:
Merchandise

Mer"chan*dise
(?)
n.
[F. marchandise, OF. marcheandise.]
1.
The objects of commerce; whatever is usually bought or sold in trade, or market, or by merchants; wares; goods; commodities.
Spenser.

2.
The act or business of trading; trade; traffic.


word: Merchandise₂
definition:
Merchandise

Mer"chan*dise
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Merchandised (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Merchandising (?).]
To trade; to carry on commerce.
Bacon.


word: merchandising
definition:
merchandising

mer"chan*dis`ing
(?)
n.
(Commerce)
The activities associated with selling products, such as identification of the market{7}, advertising at the right time in the right media{7}, and creating attractive packaging and displays; also, the study of the best methods to accomplish such goals.


word: Merchant
definition:
Merchant

Mer"chant
(?)
n.
[OE. marchant, OF. marcheant, F. marchand, fr. LL. mercatans, -antis, p. pr. of mercatare to negotiate, L. mercari to traffic, fr. merx, mercis, wares. See Market, Merit, and cf. Commerce.]
1.
One who traffics on a large scale, especially with foreign countries; a trafficker; a trader.

Others, like merchants, venture trade abroad.
Shak.

2.
A trading vessel; a merchantman.
[Obs.]
Shak.

3.
One who keeps a store or shop for the sale of goods; a shopkeeper.
[U. S. & Scot.]


word: Merchant₂
definition:
Merchant

Mer"chant
a.
Of, pertaining to, or employed in, trade or merchandise; as, the merchant service.

Merchant bar, Merchant iron or Merchant steel, certain common sizes of wrought iron and steel bars. -- Merchant service or Merchant marine, the mercantile marine of a country. Am. Cyc. -- Merchant ship, a ship employed in commerce. -- Merchant tailor, a tailor who keeps and sells materials for the garments which he makes.


word: Merchantable
definition:
Merchantable

Mer"chant*a*ble
(?)
a.
Fit for market; such as is usually sold in market, or such as will bring the ordinary price; as, merchantable wheat; sometimes, a technical designation for a particular kind or class.


word: Merchantly
definition:
Merchantly

Mer"chant*ly
a.
Merchantlike; suitable to the character or business of a merchant.
[Obs.]
Gauden.


word: Merchantman
definition:
Merchantman

Mer"chant*man
(?)
n.
pl. Merchantmen (_;).

1.
A merchant.
[Obs.]
Matt. xiii. 45.

2.
A trading vessel; a ship employed in the transportation of goods, as, distinguished from a man-of-war.


word: merchant marine
definition:
merchant marine

mer"chant ma*rine"
(?)
n.
The ships owned by nationals of a particular country that are engaged in civilian commerce; also, the personnel operating those vessels.  Distinguished from the navy, which contains the vessels of war.


word: merchantry
definition:
merchantry

mer"chant*ry
(?)
n.
1.
The body of merchants taken collectively; as, the merchantry of a country.

2.
The business of a merchant; merchandise.
Walpole.


word: Merciful
definition:
Merciful

Mer"ci*ful
(?)
a.
[Mercy + -ful.]
1.
Full of mercy; having or exercising mercy; disposed to pity and spare offenders; unwilling to punish.  Opposite of merciless.

The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious.
Ex. xxxiv. 6.

Be merciful, great duke, to men of mold.
Shak.

2.
Unwilling to give pain; compassionate.

A merciful man will be merciful to his beast.
Old Proverb.


word: Merciless
definition:
Merciless

Mer"ci*less
a.
Destitute of mercy; cruel; unsparing; -- said of animate beings, and also, figuratively, of things; as, a merciless tyrant; merciless waves.

The foe is merciless, and will not pity.
Shak.


word: Mercurammonium
definition:
Mercurammonium

Mer`cur*am*mo"ni*um
(?)
n.
[Mercuric + ammonium.]
(Chem.)
A radical regarded as derived from ammonium by the substitution of mercury for a portion of the hydrogen.


word: Mercurial
definition:
Mercurial

Mer*cu"ri*al
(?)
a.
[L. mercurialis, fr. Mercurius Mercury: cf. F. mercuriel.]
1.
Having the qualities fabled to belong to the god Mercury; swift; active; sprightly; fickle; volatile; changeable; as, a mercurial youth; a mercurial temperament.

A mercurial man
Who fluttered over all things like a fan.
Byron.

2.
Having the form or image of Mercury; -- applied to ancient guideposts.
[Obs.]
Chillingworth.

3.
Of or pertaining to Mercury as the god of trade; hence, money-making; crafty.

The mercurial wand of commerce.
J. Q. Adams.

4.
Of or pertaining to, or containing, mercury; as, mercurial preparations, barometer. See Mercury, 2.

5.
(Med.)
Caused by the use of mercury; as, mercurial sore mouth.


word: Mercurial₂
definition:
Mercurial

Mer*cu"ri*al
n.
1.
A person having mercurial qualities.
Bacon.

2.
(Med.)
A preparation containing mercury.


word: mercurialism
definition:
mercurialism

mer*cu"ri*al*ism
(?)
n.
[Mercurial + -ism.]
(Med.)
The syndrome produced by poisoning due to exposure to mercury, it fumes, or its compounds; mercury poisoning.  Such exposure may occur in mining or smelting, or in using mercurial compounds.


word: Mercurialist
definition:
Mercurialist

Mer*cu"ri*al*ist
n.
1.
One under the influence of Mercury; one resembling Mercury in character.

2.
(Med.)
A physician who uses much mercury, in any of its forms, in his practice.


word: Mercurialize
definition:
Mercurialize

Mer*cu"ri*al*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mercurialized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mercurializing (?).]
1.
(Med.)
To affect with mercury.

2.
(Photography)
To treat with mercury; to expose to the vapor of mercury.


word: Mercuric
definition:
Mercuric

Mer*cu"ric
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or derived from, mercury; containing mercury; -- said of those compounds of mercury into which this element enters in its lowest proportion.

Mercuric chloride, corrosive sublimate. See mercury bichloride and Corrosive.


word: Mercurification
definition:
Mercurification

Mer*cu`ri*fi*ca"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. mercurification. See Mercurify.]
1.
(Metal.)
The process or operation of obtaining the mercury, in its fluid form, from mercuric minerals.

2.
(Chem.)
The act or process of compounding, or the state of being compounded, with mercury.
[R.]


word: Mercurify
definition:
Mercurify

Mer*cu"ri*fy
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mercurified (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mercurifying (?).]
[Mercury + -fy.]
1.
To obtain mercury from, as mercuric minerals, which may be done by any application of intense heat that expels the mercury in fumes, which are afterward condensed.
[R.]

2.
To combine or mingle mercury with; to impregnate with mercury; to mercurialize.
[R.]


word: Mercurous
definition:
Mercurous

Mer*cu"rous
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or derived from, mercury; containing mercury; -- said of those compounds of mercury in which it is present in its highest proportion.

Mercurous chloride. (Chem.) See Calomel.


word: Mercury
definition:
Mercury

Mer"cu*ry
(?)
n.
[L. Mercurius; akin to merx wares.]
1.
(Rom. Myth.)
A Latin god of commerce and gain; -- treated by the poets as identical with the Greek Hermes, messenger of the gods, conductor of souls to the lower world, and god of eloquence.

2.
(Chem.)
A metallic element mostly obtained by reduction from cinnabar, one of its ores.  It is a heavy, opaque, glistening liquid (commonly called quicksilver), and is used in barometers, thermometers, etc.  Specific gravity 13.6.  Symbol Hg (Hydrargyrum).  Atomic weight 199.8.  Mercury has a molecule which consists of only one atom.  It was named by the alchemists after the god Mercury, and designated by his symbol, &mercury_;.

&hand_; Mercury forms alloys, called amalgams, with many metals, and is thus used in applying tin foil to the backs of mirrors, and in extracting gold and silver from their ores.  It is poisonous, and is used in medicine in the free state as in blue pill, and in its compounds as calomel, corrosive sublimate, etc.  It is the only metal which is liquid at ordinary temperatures, and it solidifies at about -39° Centigrade to a soft, malleable, ductile metal.

3.
(Astron.)
One of the planets of the solar system, being the one nearest the sun, from which its mean distance is about 36,000,000 miles. Its period is 88 days, and its diameter 3,000 miles.

4.
A carrier of tidings; a newsboy; a messenger; hence, also, a newspaper.
Sir J. Stephen.
Mercuries
Macaulay.

5.
Sprightly or mercurial quality; spirit; mutability; fickleness.
[Obs.]

He was so full of mercury that he could not fix long in any friendship, or to any design.
Bp. Burnet.

6.
(Bot.)
A plant (Mercurialis annua), of the Spurge family, the leaves of which are sometimes used for spinach, in Europe.

&hand_; The name is also applied, in the United States, to certain climbing plants, some of which are poisonous to the skin, esp. to the Rhus Toxicodendron, or poison ivy.

Dog's mercury (Bot.), Mercurialis perennis, a perennial plant differing from Mercurialis annua by having the leaves sessile. -- English mercury (Bot.), a kind of goosefoot formerly used as a pot herb; -- called Good King Henry. -- Horn mercury (Min.), a mineral chloride of mercury, having a semitranslucent, hornlike appearance.


word: mercury bichloride
definition:
mercury bichloride

mercury bichloride
n.
the compound (HgCl2) consisting of two atoms of chlorine united with one atom of mercury.   Also called bichloride of mercury, mercuric chloride, corrosive sublimate, and mercury perchloride.  It is used as “a topical antiseptic and disinfectant for inanimate objects”.
Stedman's 25th


word: mercury fulminate
definition:
mercury fulminate

mer"cu*ry ful"mi*nate
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
The mercury salt of fulminic acid (Hg(CNO)2), called also fulminate of mercury.  It is an explosive compound prepared as gray crystals, and is used primarily in detonators for detonating high explosives, such as dynamite or TNT.  It is sensitive to shock and may be detonated by a blow.


word: Mercy
definition:
Mercy

Mer"cy
(mẽr"s&ybreve_;)
n.
pl. Mercies (#).
[OE. merci, F. merci, L. merces, mercedis, hire, pay, reward, LL., equiv. to misericordia pity, mercy. L. merces is probably akin to merere to deserve, acquire. See Merit, and cf. Amerce.]
1.
Forbearance to inflict harm under circumstances of provocation, when one has the power to inflict it; compassionate treatment of an offender or adversary; clemency.

Examples of justice must be made for terror to some; examples of mercy for comfort to others.
Bacon.

2.
Compassionate treatment of the unfortunate and helpless; sometimes, favor, beneficence.
Luke x. 37.

3.
Disposition to exercise compassion or favor; pity; compassion; willingness to spare or to help.

In whom mercy lacketh and is not founden.
Sir T. Elyot.

4.
A blessing regarded as a manifestation of compassion or favor.

The Father of mercies and the God of all comfort.
2 Cor. i. 3.

Mercy seat (Bib.), the golden cover or lid of the Ark of the Covenant. See Ark, 2. -- Sisters of Mercy (R. C. Ch.),a religious order founded in Dublin in the year 1827.  Communities of the same name have since been established in various American cities.  The duties of those belonging to the order are, to attend lying-in hospitals, to superintend the education of girls, and protect decent women out of employment, to visit prisoners and the sick, and to attend persons condemned to death. -- To be at the mercy of, to be wholly in the power of.


word: Mere
definition:
Mere

Mere
(mēr)
n.
[Written also mar.]
[OE. mere, AS. mere mere, sea; akin to D. meer lake, OS. meri sea, OHG. meri, mari, G. meer, Icel. marr, Goth. marei, Russ. more, W. mor, Ir. & Gael. muir, L. mare, and perh. to L. mori to die, and meaning originally, that which is dead, a waste.  Cf. Mortal, Marine, Marsh, Mermaid, Moor.]
A pool or lake.
Drayton. Tennyson.


word: Mere₃
definition:
Mere

Mere
(mēr)
v. t.
To divide, limit, or bound.
[Obs.]

Which meared her rule with Africa.
Spenser.


word: Mere₅
definition:
Mere

Mere
(mēr)
a.
[Superl. Merest. The comparative is rarely or never used.]
[L. merus.]
1.
Unmixed; pure; entire; absolute; unqualified.

Then entered they the mere, main sea.
Chapman.

The sorrows of this world would be mere and unmixed.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
Only this, and nothing else; such, and no more; simple; bare; as, a mere boy; a mere form.

From mere success nothing can be concluded in favor of any nation.
Atterbury.


word: Merely
definition:
Merely

Mere"ly
adv.
1.
Purely; unmixedly; absolutely.

Ulysses was to force forth his access,
Though merely naked.
Chapman.

2.
Not otherwise than; simply; barely; only.

Prize not your life for other ends
Than merely to oblige your friends.
Swift.


word: Merenchyma
definition:
Merenchyma

Me*ren"chy*ma
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; a part + -enchyma, as in parenchyma.]
(Bot.)
Tissue composed of spheroidal cells.


word: Merestead
definition:
Merestead

Mere"stead
(?)
n.
[Mere boundary + stead place.]
The land within the boundaries of a farm; a farmstead or farm.
[Archaic.]
Longfellow.


word: Meretricious
definition:
Meretricious

Mer`e*tri"cious
(?)
a.
[L. meretricius, from meretrix, -icis, a prostitute, lit., one who earns money, i. e., by prostitution, fr. merere to earn, gain. See Merit.]
1.
Of or pertaining to prostitutes; having to do with harlots; lustful; as, meretricious traffic.

2.
Resembling the arts of a harlot; alluring by false show; gaudily and deceitfully ornamental; tawdry; as, meretricious dress or ornaments.

3.
Deceptive or based on deception; seeming plausible, but based on pretense or insincerity; deceptive; misleading; insincere; specious; as, meretricious arguments.


word: meretriciousness
definition:
meretriciousness

mer`e*tri"cious*ness
n.
1.
an appearance of truth that is false or deceptive; seeming plausibility.

Syn. -- speciousness.

2.
tasteless showiness.

Syn. -- flashiness, garishness, gaudiness, loudness, tawdriness, glitz.


word: Merganser
definition:
Merganser

Mer*gan"ser
(?)
n.
[Sp. mergánsar, fr. mergo a diver (L. mergus, fr. mergere to dip, dive) + ánsar goose, L. anser.]
(Zool.)
Any bird of the genus Mergus (Merganser), and allied genera of the subfamily Merginae.  They are allied to the ducks, but have a sharply serrated bill, eat fish, and dive for food.  Also called fish duck.

&hand_; The red-breasted merganser (Merganser serrator) inhabits both hemispheres. It is called also sawbill, harle, and sheldrake.  The American merganser (Merganser Americanus.) and the hooded merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) are well-known species.
White merganser, the smew or white nun.


word: merge
definition:
merge

merge
(mẽrj)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Merged (mẽrjd); p. pr. & vb. n. Merging (mẽr"jĭng).]
[L. mergere, mersum.  Cf. Emerge, Immerse, Marrow.]
To cause to be swallowed up; to immerse; to sink; to absorb.

To merge all natural . . . sentiment in inordinate vanity.
Burke.

Whig and Tory were merged and swallowed up in the transcendent duties of patriots.
De Quincey.


word: Merge
definition:
Merge

Merge
v. i.
To be sunk, swallowed up, or lost.

Native irresolution had merged in stronger motives.
I. Taylor.


word: merged
definition:
merged

merged
adj.
formed or united into a whole; -- of formerly separate objects, groups, etc.

Syn. -- incorporate, incorporated, integrated, unified.


word: Merger
definition:
Merger

Mer"ger
(?)
n.
1.
One who, or that which, merges.

2.
(Law)
An absorption of one estate, or one contract, in another, or of a minor offense in a greater.

3.
The combining of two groups into a unified single group under a single leadership, with voluntary participation by the leaders or management of both groups.

4.
Specifically:
(Business, Finance)
The combining of two commercial enterprises into a unified single enterprise under a single management, with voluntary participation by both parties; as, the merger of Daimler-Benz and Chrysler into Daimler-Chrysler created a powerful competitor in the automobile manufacturing industry.  Compare acquisition and takeover.


word: merging
definition:
merging

merging
adj.
1.
combining or mixing.

Syn. -- blending, mingling.

2.
flowing together.
[prenominal]

Syn. -- confluent.


word: merging₂
definition:
merging

merging
n.
1.
The act or process of joining together into one entity.

Syn. -- meeting, coming together.

2.
a flowing together (as of rivers).

Syn. -- confluence, conflux.


word: Mericarp
definition:
Mericarp

Mer"i*carp
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`ros a part + karpo`s fruit.]
(Bot.)
One carpel of an umbelliferous fruit. See Cremocarp.


word: Meride
definition:
Meride

Mer"ide
(? or ?)
n.
[Gr. _; a part.]
(Biol.)
A permanent colony of cells or plastids which may remain isolated, like Rotifer, or may multiply by gemmation to form higher aggregates, termed zoides.
Perrier.


word: Meridian
definition:
Meridian

Me*rid"i*an
(?)
a.
[F. méridien, L. meridianus pertaining to noon, fr. meridies noon, midday, for older medidies; medius mid, middle + dies day. See Mid, and Diurnal.]
1.
Being at, or pertaining to, midday; belonging to, or passing through, the highest point attained by the sun in his diurnal course.
Meridian
Milton.

Tables . . . to find the altitude meridian.
Chaucer.

2.
Pertaining to the highest point or culmination; as, meridian splendor.


word: Meridian₂
definition:
Meridian

Me*rid"i*an
n.
[F. méridien. See Meridian, a.]

1.
Midday; noon.

2.
Hence: The highest point, as of success, prosperity, or the like; culmination.

I have touched the highest point of all my greatness,
And from that full meridian of my glory
I haste now to my setting.
Shak.

3.
(Astron.)
A great circle of the sphere passing through the poles of the heavens and the zenith of a given place. It is crossed by the sun at midday.

4.
(Geog.)
A great circle on the surface of the earth, passing through the poles and any given place; also, the half of such a circle included between the poles.

&hand_; The planes of the geographical and astronomical meridians coincide. Meridians, on a map or globe, are lines drawn at certain intervals due north and south, or in the direction of the poles.

Calculated for the meridian of, or fitted to the meridian of, or adapted to the meridian of, suited to the local circumstances, capabilities, or special requirements of.

All other knowledge merely serves the concerns of this life, and is fitted to the meridian thereof.
Sir M. Hale.

First meridian or prime meridian, the meridian from which longitudes are reckoned.   The meridian of Greenwich is the one commonly employed in calculations of longitude by geographers, and in actual practice, although in various countries other and different meridians, chiefly those which pass through the capitals of the countries, are occasionally used; as, in France, the meridian of Paris; in the United States, the meridian of Washington, etc. -- Guide meridian (Public Land Survey), a line, marked by monuments, running North and South through a section of country between other more carefully established meridians called principal meridians, used for reference in surveying. [U.S.] -- Magnetic meridian, a great circle, passing through the zenith and coinciding in direction with the magnetic needle, or a line on the earth's surface having the same direction. -- Meridian circle (Astron.), an instrument consisting of a telescope attached to a large graduated circle and so mounted that the telescope revolves like the transit instrument in a meridian plane. By it the right ascension and the declination of a star may be measured in a single observation. -- Meridian instrument (Astron.), any astronomical instrument having a telescope that rotates in a meridian plane. -- Meridian of a globe, or Brass meridian, a graduated circular ring of brass, in which the artificial globe is suspended and revolves.


word: Meridional
definition:
Meridional

Me*rid"i*o*nal
(?)
a.
[F. méridional, L. meridionalis, fr. meridies midday. See Meridian.]

1.
Of or pertaining to the meridian.

2.
Having a southern aspect; southern; southerly.

Offices that require heat . . . should be meridional.
Sir H. Wotton.

Meridional distance, the distance or departure from the meridian; the easting or westing. -- Meridional parts, parts of the meridian in Mercator's projection, corresponding to each minute of latitude from the equator up to 70 or 80 degrees; tabulated numbers representing these parts used in projecting charts, and in solving cases in Mercator's sailing.


word: Meridionality
definition:
Meridionality

Me*rid`i*o*nal"i*ty
(?)
n.
1.
The state of being in the meridian.

2.
Position in the south; aspect toward the south.


word: Merils
definition:
Merils

Mer"ils
(?)
n.
[F. mérelle, marelle, marelles, LL. marella, marrella.  Cf. Morris the game.]
A boy's play, called also fivepenny morris. See Morris.


word: Meringue
definition:
Meringue

Me`ringue"
(F. mẽ`răN"g'; E. mĕ*răng")
n.
[F.]
A delicate pastry made of powdered sugar and the whites of eggs whipped up, -- with jam or cream added.


word: Merino
definition:
Merino

Me*ri"no
(?)
a.
[Sp. merino moving from pasture to pasture, fr. merino a royal judge and superintendent or inspector of sheep walks, LL. merinus, fr. majorinus, i. e., major vill_;, fr. L. major greater. See Major. Merino sheep are driven at certain seasons from one part of Spain to another, in large flocks, for pasturage.]
1.
Of or pertaining to a variety of sheep with very fine wool, originally bred in Spain.

2.
Made of the wool of the merino sheep.


word: Merino₂
definition:
Merino

Me*ri"no
n.
pl. Merinos (#).
[Sp.]
1.
(Zool.)
A breed of sheep originally from Spain, noted for the fineness of its wool.

2.
A fine fabric of merino wool.


word: Merismatic
definition:
Merismatic

Mer`is*mat"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _; division, fr. _; part.]
(Biol.)
Dividing into cells or segments; characterized by separation into two or more parts or sections by the formation of internal partitions; as, merismatic growth, where one cell divides into many.


word: Meristem
definition:
Meristem

Mer"i*stem
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; divisible.]
(Bot.)
A tissue of growing cells, or cells capable of further division.


word: Merit
definition:
Merit

Mer"it
(?)
n.
[F. mérite, L. meritum, fr. merere, mereri, to deserve, merit; prob. originally, to get a share; akin to Gr. _; part, _; fate, doom, _; to receive as one's portion.  Cf. Market, Merchant, Mercer, Mercy.]
1.
The quality or state of deserving well or ill; desert.

Here may men see how sin hath his merit.
Chaucer.

Be it known, that we, the greatest, are misthought
For things that others do; and when we fall,
We answer other's merits in our name.
Shak.

2.
Esp. in a good sense:
The quality or state of deserving well; worth; excellence.

Reputation is . . . oft got without merit, and lost without deserving.
Shak.

To him the wit of Greece and Rome was known,
And every author's merit, but his own.
Pope.

3.
Reward deserved; any mark or token of excellence or approbation; as, his teacher gave him ten merits.

Those laurel groves, the merits of thy youth.
Prior.


word: Merit₂
definition:
Merit

Mer"it
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Merited; p. pr. & vb. n. Meriting.]
[F. mériter, L. meritare, v. intens. fr. merere. See Merit, n.]
1.
To earn by service or performance; to have a right to claim as reward; to deserve; sometimes, to deserve in a bad sense; as, to merit punishment.
merits
Shak.

2.
To reward.
[R. & Obs.]
Chapman.


word: Merit₃
definition:
Merit

Mer"it
v. i.
To acquire desert; to gain value; to receive benefit; to profit.
[Obs.]
Beau. & Fl.


word: Merithallus
definition:
Merithallus

Merithal

{ Mer"i*thal (?), &VerbarMer`i*thal"lus (?), }
n.
[NL. merithallus, fr. Gr. _;, or _;, a part + _; a young shoot.]
(Bot.)
Same as Internode.


word: meritocracy
definition:
meritocracy

meritocracy
n.
1.
A form of social system in which power goes to those with superior intellects.

2.
The belief that rulers should be chosen for their superior abilities and not because of their wealth or birth.


word: Meritorious
definition:
Meritorious

Mer`i*to"ri*ous
(?)
a.
[L. meritorius that brings in money.]
Possessing merit; deserving of reward or honor; worthy of recompense; valuable.

And meritorious shall that hand be called,
Canonized, and worshiped as a saint.
Shak.


word: Meritot
definition:
Meritot

Mer"i*tot
(?)
n.
A play of children, in swinging on ropes, or the like, till they are dizzy.


word: merkin
definition:
merkin

mer"kin
(?)
n.
1.
Originally, a wig; afterwards, a mop for cleaning cannon.

2.
A patch of false hair, or something resembling hair, worn on a string over the female pudenda; -- used by stripteasers.

3.
The hair on the female pubic area.
[slang]


word: Merle
definition:
Merle

Merl

{ Merl (?), Merle, }
n.
[F. merle, L. merula, merulus.  Cf. Ousel.]
(Zool.)
The European blackbird. See Blackbird.
Drayton.


word: Merlin
definition:
Merlin

Mer"lin
(?)
n.
[OE. merlion, F. émerillon ; cf. OHG. smirl, G. schmerl ; prob. fr. L. merula blackbird.  Cf. Merle.]
(Zool.)
A small European falcon (Falco columbarius, syn. Falco lithofalco, or Falco aesalon).  In North America called also pigeon hawk.


word: Merlon
definition:
Merlon

Mer"lon
(?)
n.
[F., perh. fr. L. moerus, for murus a wall, through (assumed) dim. moerulus.]
(Fort.)
One of the solid parts of a battlemented parapet; a battlement. See Illust. of Battlement.


word: Merluce
definition:
Merluce

Mer"luce
(?)
n.
[F. merluche, merlus.]
(Zool.)
The European hake; -- called also herring hake and sea pike.


word: Mermaid
definition:
Mermaid

Mer"maid
(?)
n.
[AS. mere lake, sea. See Mere lake, and maid.]
A fabled marine creature, typically represented as having the upper part like that of a woman, and the lower like a fish; a sea nymph, sea woman, or woman fish.

&hand_; Chaucer uses this word as equivalent to the siren of the ancients.

Mermaid fish (Zool.) the angel fish (Squatina). -- Mermaid's glove (Zool.), a British branched sponge somewhat resembling a glove. -- Mermaid's head (Zool.), a European spatangoid sea urchin (Echinocardium cordatum) having some resemblance to a skull. -- Mermaid weed (Bot.), an aquatic herb with dentate or pectinate leaves (Proserpinaca palustris and Proserpinaca pectinacea).


word: Mero cabrolla
definition:
Mero cabrolla

Mero de lo alto

Mero

Me"ro
(?)
n.
[Sp.; cf. Pg. mero.]
Any of several large groupers of warm seas, esp. the guasa (Epinephelus guaza), the red grouper (Epinephelus morio), the black grouper (Epinephelus nigritas), distinguished as Me"ro de lo al"to (_;), and a species called also rock hind, distinguished as Me"ro ca*brol"la (_;).


word: Meroblast
definition:
Meroblast

Mer"o*blast
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`ros part + -blast.]
(Biol.)
An ovum, as that of a mammal, only partially composed of germinal matter, that is, consisting of both a germinal portion and an albuminous or nutritive one; -- opposed to holoblast.


word: Meroblastic
definition:
Meroblastic

Mer`o*blas"tic
(?)
a.
(Biol.)
Consisting only in part of germinal matter; characterized by partial segmentation only; as, meroblastic ova, in which a portion of the yolk only undergoes fission; meroblastic segmentation; -- opposed to holoblastic.


word: Merocele
definition:
Merocele

Me"ro*cele
(?)
n.
[Gr. mhro`s thigh + _; tumor.]
(Med.)
Hernia in the thigh; femoral hernia .


word: Meroistic
definition:
Meroistic

Mer`o*is"tic
(?)
a.
[Gr. me`ros part + _; an egg.]
(Zool.)
Applied to the ovaries of insects when they secrete vitelligenous cells, as well as ova.


word: Meropidan
definition:
Meropidan

Me*rop"i*dan
(?)
n.
[L. merops a bee-eating bird, Gr. me`rops.]
(Zool.)
One of a family of birds (Meropidae), including the bee-eaters.


word: Meropodite
definition:
Meropodite

Me*rop"o*dite
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`ros thigh + poy`s, podo`s, foot.]
(Zool.)
The fourth joint of a typical appendage of Crustacea.


word: Merorganization
definition:
Merorganization

Mer*or`gan*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`ros part + E. organization.]
Organization in part.
[R.]


word: Meros
definition:
Meros

Me"ros
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. me`ros part.]
(Arch.)
The plain surface between the channels of a triglyph.
[Written also merus.]
Weale.


word: Meros₂
definition:
Meros

Me"ros
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`ros the thigh.]
(Anat.)
The proximal segment of the hind limb; the thigh.


word: Merosome
definition:
Merosome

Mer"o*some
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`ros part + -some body.]
(Zool.)
One of the serial segments, or metameres, of which the bodies of vertebrate and articulate animals are composed.


word: Merostomata
definition:
Merostomata

Mer`o*stom"a*ta
(?)
prop. n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`ros thigh + _;, -_;, mouth.]
(Zool.)
A class of Arthropoda, allied to the Crustacea.  It includes the trilobites, Eurypteroidea, and Limuloidea.  All are extinct except the horseshoe crabs (Limulus) of the last group. See Limulus.


word: Merovingian
definition:
Merovingian

Mer`o*vin"gi*an
(?)
a.
[From Merovaeus, the Latin name of a king of the Franks.]
Of or pertaining to the first Frankish dynasty in Gaul or France.
n. One of the kings of this dynasty.


word: Merozoite
definition:
Merozoite

Mer`o*zo"ite
(?)
n.
[Gr. me`ros part + Sporozoa.]
(Zool.)
A form of spore, usually elongate or falciform, and somewhat amoeboid, produced by segmentation of the schizonts of certain Sporozoa, as the malaria parasite.


word: Merrily
definition:
Merrily

Mer"ri*ly
(?)
adv.
[From Merry.]
In a merry manner; with mirth; with gayety and laughter; jovially. See Mirth, and Merry.

Merrily sing, and sport, and play.
Granville.


word: Merriment
definition:
Merriment

Mer"ri*ment
(?)
n.
Gayety, with laughter; mirth; frolic.
merriment
Spenser.

Methought it was the sound
Of riot and ill-managed merriment.
Milton.


word: Merriness
definition:
Merriness

Mer"ri*ness
n.
The quality or state of being merry; merriment; mirth; gayety, with laughter.


word: Merry
definition:
Merry

Mer"ry
(?)
a.
[Compar. Merrier (?); superl. Merriest.]
[OE. merie, mirie, murie, merry, pleasant, AS. merge, myrige, pleasant; cf. murge, adv.; prob. akin to OHG. murg, short, Goth. gamaúrgjan to shorten; cf. L. murcus a coward, who cuts off his thumb to escape military service; the Anglo-Saxon and English meanings coming from the idea of making the time seem short.  Cf. Mirth.]
1.
Laughingly gay; overflowing with good humor and good spirits; jovial; inclined to laughter or play; sportive.

They drank, and were merry with him.
Gen. xliii. 34.

I am never merry when I hear sweet music.
Shak.

2.
Cheerful; joyous; not sad; happy.

Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
Jas. v. 13.

3.
Causing laughter, mirth, gladness, or delight; as, a merry jest.
Merry
Spenser.

Merry dancers. See under Dancer. -- Merry men, followers; retainers. [Obs.]
[1913 Webster]
His merie men commanded he
To make him bothe game and glee. Chaucer.
[1913 Webster]
-- To make merry, to be jovial; to indulge in hilarity; to feast with mirth. Judg. ix. 27.


word: Merry-andrew
definition:
Merry-andrew

Mer"ry-an"drew
(mĕr"r&ybreve_;-ăn"dr&usuml_;)
n.
One whose business is to make sport for others; a buffoon; a zany; especially, one who attends a mountebank or quack doctor.

&hand_; This term is said to have originated from one Andrew Borde, an English physician of the 16th century, who gained patients by facetious speeches to the multitude.


word: Merry-go-round
definition:
Merry-go-round

Mer"ry-go`-round"
(?)
n.
Any revolving contrivance for affording amusement; esp., a group of seats in the shape of hobbyhorses or other fanciful animals, arranged in a circle on a platform that is rotated by a mechanical drive, often to the accompaniment of music; the seats often move up and down in synchrony with the rotation; -- called also carousel.  It is employed primarily for the amusement of children, and is typically found at an amusement park.


word: Merrymake
definition:
Merrymake

Mer"ry*make`
(?)
n.
Mirth; frolic; a meeting for mirth; a festival.
[Written also merrimake.]


word: Merrymaker
definition:
Merrymaker

Mer"ry*mak`er
(?)
n.
One who makes merriment or indulges in conviviality; a jovial comrade.


word: Merrymaking₂
definition:
Merrymaking

Mer"ry*mak`ing
n.
The act of making merry; conviviality; merriment; jollity.
Wordsworth.


word: Merrythought
definition:
Merrythought

Mer"ry*thought`
(?)
n.
The forked bone of a fowl's breast; -- called also wishbone. See Furculum.

&hand_; It is a sportive custom for two persons to break this bone by pulling the ends apart to see who will get the longer piece, the securing of which is regarded as a lucky omen, signifying that the person holding it will obtain the gratification of some secret wish.


word: Merulidan
definition:
Merulidan

Me*ru"li*dan
(?)
n.
[L. merula, merulus, blackbird. See Merle.]
(Zool.)
A bird of the Thrush family.


word: mesa
definition:
mesa

me"sa
(ma̝"sȧ)
n.
[Sp.]
A high tableland; a plateau on a hill.
[Southwestern U.S.]
Bartlett.


word: Mesaconic
definition:
Mesaconic

Mes`a*con"ic
(?)
a.
[Mes- + -aconic, as in citraconic.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, one of several isomeric acids obtained from citric acid.


word: Mesalliance
definition:
Mesalliance

Mé`sal`li`ance"
(?)
n.
[F.]
A marriage with a person of inferior social position; a misalliance.


word: Mesamoeboid
definition:
Mesamoeboid

Mes`a*mœ"boid
(mĕs`ȧ*mē"boid)
n.
[Mes- + amœboid.]
(Biol.)
One of a class of independent, isolated cells found in the mesoderm, while the germ layers are undergoing differentiation.


word: Mesaraic
definition:
Mesaraic

Mes`a*ra"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. mesa`raion mesentery; me`sos middle + 'araia` flank.]
(Anat.)
Mesenteric.


word: Mesaticephalic
definition:
Mesaticephalic

Mes`a*ti*ce*phal"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _; midmost + E. cephalic.]
(Anat.)
Having the ratio of the length to the breadth of the cranium a medium one; neither brachycephalic nor dolichocephalic.


word: Mescal
definition:
Mescal

Mes*cal"
(?)
n.
[Sp.]
A distilled liquor prepared in Mexico from a species of agave. See Agave.


word: Mesembryanthemum
definition:
Mesembryanthemum

Me*sem`bry*an"the*mum
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. meshmbri`a midday + 'a`nqos flower.]
(Bot.)
A genus of herbaceous or suffruticose plants, chiefly natives of South Africa.  The leaves are opposite, thick, and fleshy.  The flowers usually open about midday, whence the name.


word: Mesencephalon
definition:
Mesencephalon

Mes`en*ceph"a*lon
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meso- and Encephalon.]
(Anat.)
The middle segment of the brain; the midbrain.  Sometimes abbreviated to mesen. See Brain.


word: Mesenchyma
definition:
Mesenchyma

Mes*en"chy*ma
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + -enchyma, as in E. parenchyma.]
(Biol.)
The part of the mesoblast which gives rise to the connective tissues and blood.


word: Mesenteric
definition:
Mesenteric

Mes`en*ter"ic
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. mésentérique.]
(Anat.)
Pertaining to a mesentery; mesaraic.


word: Mesenteron
definition:
Mesenteron

Mes*en"te*ron
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meso-, and Enteron.]
(Anat.)
All that part of the alimentary canal which is developed from the primitive enteron and is lined with hypoblast. It is distinguished from the stomodaeum, a part at the anterior end of the canal, including the cavity of the mouth, and the proctodaeum, a part at the posterior end, which are formed by invagination and are lined with epiblast.


word: Mesentery
definition:
Mesentery

Mes"en*ter*y
(?; 277)
n.
[Gr. mesente`rion, me`sos + 'e`nteron intestine: cf. F. mésentère.]

1.
(Anat.)
The membranes, or one of the membranes (consisting of a fold of the peritoneum and inclosed tissues), which connect the intestines and their appendages with the dorsal wall of the abdominal cavity. The mesentery proper is connected with the jejunum and ilium, the other mesenteries being called mesocaecum, mesocolon, mesorectum, etc.

2.
(Zool.)
One of the vertical muscular radiating partitions which divide the body cavity of Anthozoa into chambers.


word: Mesethmoid
definition:
Mesethmoid

Mes*eth"moid
(?)
a.
[Mes- + ethmoid.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the middle of the ethmoid region or ethmoid bone.
n. (Anat.) The median vertical plate, or median element, of the ethmoid bone.


word: Mesh
definition:
Mesh

Mesh
(mĕsh)
n.
[AS. masc, max, mæscre; akin to D. maas, masche, OHG. masca, Icel. möskvi; cf. Lith. mazgas a knot, megsti to weave nets, to knot.]
1.
The opening or space inclosed by the threads of a net between knot and knot, or the threads inclosing such a space; network; a net.

A golden mesh to entrap the hearts of men.
Shak.

2.
(Gearing)
The engagement of the teeth of wheels, or of a wheel and rack.

Mesh stick, a stick on which the mesh is formed in netting.


word: Mesiad
definition:
Mesiad

Mes"i*ad
(?)
adv.
[Gr. me`sos middle + L. ad to.]
(Anat.)
Toward, or on the side toward, the mesial plane; mesially; -- opposed to laterad.


word: Mesial
definition:
Mesial

Me"sial
(?; 277)
a.
[Gr. me`sos middle.]
(Anat.)
Middle; median; in, or in the region of, the mesial plane; internal; -- opposed to lateral.

Mesial plane. (Anat.) See Meson.


word: Mesityl
definition:
Mesityl

Mes"i*tyl
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A hypothetical radical formerly supposed to exist in mesityl oxide.

Mesityl oxide (Chem.), a volatile liquid having the odor of peppermint, obtained by certain dehydrating agents from acetone; -- formerly called also dumasin.


word: Mesitylene
definition:
Mesitylene

Me*sit"y*lene
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A colorless, fragrant liquid, C6H3(CH3)3, of the benzene series of hydrocarbons, obtained by distilling acetone with sulphuric acid.
Me*sit`y*len"ic (#), a.


word: Mesitylol
definition:
Mesitylol

Me*sit"y*lol
(?)
n.
[Mesitylene + -ol.]
(Chem.)
A crystalline substance obtained from mesitylene.


word: Mesmerical
definition:
Mesmerical

Mesmeric

{ Mes*mer"ic (?), Mes*mer"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. mesmérique.]
Of, pertaining to, or induced by, mesmerism; as, mesmeric sleep.


word: Mesmerism
definition:
Mesmerism

Mes"mer*ism
(?)
n.
[From Mesmer, who first brought it into notice at Vienna, about 1775: cf. F. mesmérisme.]
An earlier name for hypnosis or hypnotism, the art of inducing an extraordinary or abnormal state of the nervous system, in which the actor claims to control the actions, and communicate directly with the mind, of the recipient.  It is believed to be a state between sleep and wakefulness, in which a person is more susceptible to suggestion than when awake.  See Animal magnetism, under Magnetism.


word: Mesmerize
definition:
Mesmerize

Mes"mer*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mesmerized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mesmerizing (?).]
[Also spelled mesmerise.]
1.
To bring into a state of mesmeric sleep; to hypnotize.

2.
To produce an intense fascination in; to spellbind.


word: Mesne
definition:
Mesne

Mesne
(?)
a.
[Cf. Mean intermediate.]
(Law)
Middle; intervening; as, a mesne lord, that is, a lord who holds land of a superior, but grants a part of it to another person, in which case he is a tenant to the superior, but lord or superior to the second grantee, and hence is called the mesne lord.

Mesne process, intermediate process; process intervening between the beginning and end of a suit, sometimes understood to be the whole process preceding the execution. Blackstone. Burrill. -- Mesne profits, profits of premises during the time the owner has been wrongfully kept out of the possession of his estate.  Burrill.


word: Mes-₂
definition:
Mes-

Meso-

{ Mes"o- (?), Mes- (?) }
[Gr. me`sos in the middle.]
1.
A combining form denoting in the middle, intermediate.

2.
specif.
(Chem.)
Denoting a type of hydrocarbons which are regarded as methenyl derivatives. Also used adjectively.

3.
(Chem.)
Optically inactive due to compensating optical activity at two or more asymmetric centers, often due to a plane of symmetry within the molecular structure; as, meso-tartaric acid.

4.
Attached to a carbon atom located between two hereoatoms in a heterocyclic ring.


word: Mesoarium
definition:
Mesoarium

Mes`o*a"ri*um
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. me`sos middle + 'w,a`rion, dim. of 'w,o`n an egg.]
(Anat.)
The fold of peritoneum which suspends the ovary from the dorsal wall of the body cavity; the mesovarium.


word: Mesoblast
definition:
Mesoblast

Mes"o*blast
(?)
n.
[Meso- + -blast.]
(Biol.)
(a)
The mesoderm.
(b)
The cell nucleus; mesoplast.


word: Mesobranchial
definition:
Mesobranchial

Mes`o*bran"chi*al
(?)
a.
[Meso- + branchial.]
(Zool.)
Of or pertaining to a region of the carapace of a crab covering the middle branchial region.


word: Mesobronchium
definition:
Mesobronchium

Mes`o*bron"chi*um
(?)
n.
pl. Mesobronchia (#).
[NL. See Meso-, and Bronchia.]
(Anat.)
The main bronchus of each lung.


word: Mesocaecum
definition:
Mesocaecum

Mes`o*cae"cum
(?)
n.
(Anat.)
[NL. See Meso-, and Caecum.]
The fold of peritoneum attached to the caecum.
Mes`o*cae"cal (#), a.


word: Mesocarp
definition:
Mesocarp

Mes"o*carp
(?)
n.
[Meso- + Gr. karpo`s fruit.]
(Bot.)
The middle layer of a pericarp which consists of three distinct or dissimilar layers.
Gray.


word: Mesocephalic
definition:
Mesocephalic

Mes`o*ce*phal"ic
(?)
a.
[Meso- + cephalic.]
(Anat.)
(a)
Of or pertaining to, or in the region of, the middle of the head; as, the mesocephalic flexure.
(b)
Having the cranial cavity of medium capacity; neither megacephalic nor microcephalic.
(c)
Having the ratio of the length to the breadth of the cranium a medium one; mesaticephalic.


word: Mesocoelia
definition:
Mesocoelia

Mesocoele

{ Mes`o*coe"le (?), &VerbarMes`o*coe"li*a (?), }
n.
[NL. mesocoelia. See Meso-, and Coelia.]
(Anat.)
The cavity of the mesencephalon; the iter.


word: Mesocolon
definition:
Mesocolon

Mes`o*co"lon
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. meso`kwlon; me`sos middle + kw^lon the colon: cf. F. mésocôlon.]
(Anat.)
The fold of peritoneum, or mesentery, attached to the colon.
Mes`o*col"ic (#), a.


word: Mesocoracoid
definition:
Mesocoracoid

Mes`o*cor"a*coid
(?)
n.
[Meso- + coracoid.]
(Anat.)
A process from the middle of the coracoid in some animals.


word: Mesocuniform
definition:
Mesocuniform

Mesocuneiform

{ Mes`o*cu*ne"i*form (?), Mes`o*cu"ni*form (?), }
n.
[Meso- + cuneiform, cuniform.]
(Anat.)
One of the bones of the tarsus. See 2d Cuneiform.


word: Mesoderm
definition:
Mesoderm

Mes"o*derm
(?)
n.
[Meso- + Gr. de`rma skin.]
(Biol.)
(a)
The layer of the blastoderm, between the ectoderm and endoderm; mesoblast. See Illust. of Blastoderm and Ectoderm.
(b)
The middle body layer in some invertebrates.
(c)
The middle layer of tissue in some vegetable structures.


word: Mesodermal
definition:
Mesodermal

Mes`o*der"mal
(?)
a.
(Biol.)
Pertaining to, or derived from, the mesoderm; as, mesodermal tissues.


word: Mesodont
definition:
Mesodont

Mes"o*dont
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. 'odoy`s, 'odo`ntos, a tooth.]
(Anat.)
Having teeth of moderate size.


word: Mesogaster
definition:
Mesogaster

Mes`o*gas"ter
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; belly.]
(Anat.)
The fold of peritoneum connecting the stomach with the dorsal wall of the abdominal cavity; the mesogastrium.


word: Mesogastric
definition:
Mesogastric

Mes`o*gas"tric
(?)
a.
[Meso- + gastric.]

1.
(Anat.)
(a)
Of or pertaining to the middle region of the abdomen, or of the stomach.
(b)
Of or pertaining to the mesogaster.

2.
(Zool.)
Of or pertaining to the middle gastric lobe of the carapace of a crab.


word: Mesogastrium
definition:
Mesogastrium

Mes`o*gas"tri*um
(?)
n.
[NL. See Mesogaster.]
(Anat.)
(a)
The umbilical region.
(b)
The mesogaster.


word: Mesogloea
definition:
Mesogloea

Mes`o*glœ"a
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; a glutinous substance.]
(Zool.)
A thin gelatinous tissue separating the ectoderm and endoderm in certain coelenterates.
Mes`o*glœ"al (#), a.


word: Mesognathous
definition:
Mesognathous

Me*sog"na*thous
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. gna`qos jaw.]
(Anat.)
Having the jaws slightly projecting; between prognathous and orthognathous. See Gnathic index, under Gnathic.


word: Mesohepar
definition:
Mesohepar

Mes`o*he"par
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meso-, and Hepar.]
(Anat.)
A fold of the peritoneum connecting the liver with the dorsal wall of the abdominal cavity.


word: Mesohippus
definition:
Mesohippus

Mes`o*hip"pus
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; a horse.]
(Paleon.)
An extinct mammal of the Horse family, but not larger than a sheep, and having three toes on each foot.


word: Mesolabe
definition:
Mesolabe

Mes"o*labe
(?)
n.
[L. mesolabium, Gr. _;; me`sos middle + _; to take.]
An instrument of the ancients for finding two mean proportionals between two given lines, required in solving the problem of the duplication of the cube.
Brande & C.


word: Mesolite
definition:
Mesolite

Mes"o*lite
(?; 277)
n.
[Meso- + -lite.]
(Min.)
A zeolitic mineral, grayish white or yellowish, occuring in delicate groups of crystals, also fibrous massive. It is a hydrous silicate of alumina, lime, and soda.


word: Mesologarithm
definition:
Mesologarithm

Mes`o*log"a*rithm
(?)
n.
[Meso- + logarithm : cf. F. mésologarithme.]
(Math.)
A logarithm of the cosine or cotangent.
[Obs.]
Kepler. Hutton.


word: Mesometrium
definition:
Mesometrium

Mes`o*me"tri*um
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meso-, and Metrium.]
(Anat.)
The fold of the peritoneum supporting the oviduct.


word: Mesomycetes
definition:
Mesomycetes

Mes`o*my*ce"tes
(?)
n. pl.
[NL.; meso- + mycetes.]
(Bot.)
One of the three classes into which the fungi are divided in Brefeld's classification.
Mes`o*my*ce"tous (#), a.


word: Mesomyodous
definition:
Mesomyodous

Mes`o*my"o*dous
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. _;, _;, a muscle.]
(Zool.)
Having the intrinsic muscles of the larynx attached to the middle of the semirings.


word: Meson
definition:
Meson

Mes"on
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`son middle, neut. of me`sos, a., middle.]
1.
(Anat.)
The mesial plane dividing the body of an animal into similar right and left halves. The line in which it meets the dorsal surface has been called the dorsimeson, and the corresponding ventral edge the ventrimeson.
B. G. Wilder.

2.
(Physics)
An elementary particle made up of two quarks; a hadron having a baryon number of zero; any hadron other than a baryon.  Mesons are bosons with integral values of spin, having a mass intermediate between those of the electron and a nucleon; they may have positive or negative charges, or may be neutral.  Mesons are of three types: the pion (π-meson), kaon (K-mesons), and η-mesons.

mu meson (Physics) the former name for the muon, a particle which is not a true meson{2}.  The term is no longer used in technical literature, except historically.


word: Mesonasal
definition:
Mesonasal

Mes`o*na"sal
(?)
a.
[Meso- + nasal.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the middle portion of the nasal region.


word: Mesonephric
definition:
Mesonephric

Mes`o*neph"ric
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the mesonephros; as, the mesonephric, or Wolffian, duct.


word: Mesonephros
definition:
Mesonephros

Mes`o*neph"ros
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + nefro`s kidney.]
(Anat.)
The middle one of the three pairs of embryonic renal organs developed in most vertebrates; the Wolffian body.


word: Mesonotum
definition:
Mesonotum

Mes`o*no"tum
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + nw^ton the back.]
(Zool.)
The dorsal portion of the mesothorax of insects.


word: Mesophloeum
definition:
Mesophloeum

Mes`o*phlœ"um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + floio`s bark.]
(Bot.)
The middle bark of a tree; the green layer of bark, usually soon covered by the outer or corky layer, and obliterated.


word: Mesophyllum
definition:
Mesophyllum

Mes`o*phyl"lum
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + fy`llon leaf.]
(Bot.)
The parenchyma of a leaf between the skin of the two surfaces.
Gray.


word: Mesopodial
definition:
Mesopodial

Mes`o*po"di*al
(mĕs`o̝*p&omacr"dĭ*al)
a.
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the mesopodialia or to the parts of the limbs to which they belong.


word: Mesopodiale
definition:
Mesopodiale

Mes`o*po`di*a"le
(?)
n.
pl. Mesopodialia (#).
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _;, dim. of poy`s, podo`s, foot.]
(Anat.)
One of the bones of either the carpus or tarsus.


word: Mesopodium
definition:
Mesopodium

Mes`o*po"di*um
(?)
n.
[NL. See Mesopodiale.]
(Zool.)
The middle portion of the foot in the Gastropoda and Pteropoda.


word: Mesopterygium
definition:
Mesopterygium

Me*sop`te*ryg"i*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; a fin.]
(Anat.)
The middle one of the three principal basal cartilages in the fins of fishes.
Me*sop`ter*yg"i*al (#), a.


word: Mesorchium
definition:
Mesorchium

Me*sor"chi*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; a testicle.]
(Anat.)
The fold of peritoneum which attaches the testis to the dorsal wall of the body cavity or scrotal sac.


word: Mesorectum
definition:
Mesorectum

Mes`o*rec"tum
(?)
n.
[Meso- + rectum.]
(Anat.)
The fold of peritoneum, or mesentery, attached to the rectum.
Mes`o*rec"tal (#), a.


word: Mesorhine
definition:
Mesorhine

Mes"o*rhine
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. _;, _;, the nose.]
(Anat.)
Having the nose of medium width; between leptorhine and platyrhine.


word: Mesoscapula
definition:
Mesoscapula

Mes`o*scap"u*la
(?)
n.
[Meso- + scapula.]
(Anat.)
A process from the middle of the scapula in some animals; the spine of the scapula.


word: Mesoscutum
definition:
Mesoscutum

Mes`o*scu"tum
(?)
n.
[Meso- + scutum.]
(Zool.)
The scutum or dorsal plate of the middle thoracic segment of an insect. See Illust. of Butterfly.


word: Mesoseme
definition:
Mesoseme

Mes"o*seme
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. _; sign, mark; cf. F. mésosème.]
(Anat.)
Having a medium orbital index; having orbits neither broad nor narrow; between megaseme and microseme.


word: Mesosperm
definition:
Mesosperm

Mes"o*sperm
(?)
n.
[Meso- + Gr. _; seed: cf. F. mésosperme.]
(Bot.)
A membrane of a seed. See Secundine.


word: Mesostate
definition:
Mesostate

Mes"o*state
(?)
n.
[Meso- + Gr. _; to make to stand.]
(Physiol.)
A product of metabolic action.

&hand_; Every mesostate is either an anastate or katastate, according as it is formed by an anabolic or katabolic process. See Metabolism.


word: Mesosternum
definition:
Mesosternum

Mes`o*ster"num
(?)
n.
[Meso- + sternum.]

1.
(Anat.)
The middle portion, or body, of the sternum.

2.
(Zool.)
The ventral piece of the middle segment of the thorax in insects.


word: mesotartaric
definition:
mesotartaric

mes`o*tar*tar"ic
(?)
a.
[Meso- + tartaric.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid called also inactive tartaric acid.  It is an optically inactive stereoisomer of tartaric acid due to internal compensation of the rotatory activity of the two asymmetric centers; it has a plane of symmetry in the molecule.


word: Mesotheca
definition:
Mesotheca

Mes`o*the"ca
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; box.]
(Zool.)
The middle layer of the gonophore in the Hydrozoa.


word: Mesothelium
definition:
Mesothelium

Mes`o*the"li*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + E. epithelium.]
(Biol.)
Epithelial mesoderm; a layer of cuboidal epithelium cells, formed from a portion of the mesoderm during the differetiation of the germ layers. It constitutes the boundary of the cœlum.


word: Mesothorax
definition:
Mesothorax

Mes`o*tho"rax
(?)
n.
[Meso- + thorax: cf. F. mésothorax.]
(Zool.)
The middle segment of the thorax in insects. See Illust. of Coleoptera.


word: Mesothorium
definition:
Mesothorium

Mes`o*tho"ri*um
(?)
n.
[NL.; meso- + thorium.]
(Chem.)
a radioactive isotope of radium (radium-228) with a half-life of 5.8 years.  Also called mesothorium-1 or mesothorium I to distinguish it from a subsequent decay product, mesothorium II (actinium-228).  It was discovered in 1907 by Otto Hahn as a decay product of thorium (produced by decay of thorium-232).  Mesothorium-1 (radium-228) in turn produces actinium-228 (mesothorium-2) as the first product of its radioactive decay, and the actinium-228 in turn decays quickly (half-life of 6 hours) to thorium-228 (which is also called radiothorium; the thorium-228 has a half-life of 1.91 years, shorter than that of the radium-228).  It was discovered and named before full recognition of the nature of isotopes of the elements, and was distinguished from other variants of radium by its half-life and mode of production and decay.  It was also cheaper to prepare than other short-lived radium isotopes, and was thus sold commercially, for use, e.g. in making watch dials readable in the dark by painting the hands and hour marks with a self-luminous paint containing the radioactive substance; it is therefore often referred to (e.g. in regulatory legislation) as though distinct from radium.  It was one of the isotopes believed responsible for radiation-induced diseases observed in industrial workers who painted radium on watch dials in the late 1950's and early 1960's.  The primary isotope of radium (radium-226) has a half-life of 1620 years, and these isotopes with shorter half-lives proved difficult to isolate and study for the purpose of finding the cause of such diseases.


word: Mesotrochal
definition:
Mesotrochal

Mes"o*tro`chal
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. _; anything round, a hoop.]
(Zool.)
Having the middle of the body surrounded by bands of cilia; -- said of the larvae of certain marine annelids.


word: Mesotype
definition:
Mesotype

Mes"o*type
(?)
n.
[Meso- + -type: cf. F. mésotype.]
(Min.)
An old term covering natrolite or soda mesolite, scolecite or lime mesotype, and mesolite or lime-soda mesotype.


word: Mesovarium
definition:
Mesovarium

Mes`o*va"ri*um
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meso-, and Ovary.]
(Anat.)
The fold of peritoneum connecting the ovary with the wall of the abdominal cavity.


word: Mesoxalic
definition:
Mesoxalic

Mes`ox*al"ic
(?)
a.
[Mes- + oxalic.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid, CH2O2(CO2H)2, obtained from amido malonic acid.


word: Mesozoa
definition:
Mesozoa

Mes`o*zo"a
(?)
n. pl.
[NL. See Mesozoic.]
(Zool.)
A group of very lowly organized, wormlike parasites, including the Dicyemata.  They are found in cephalopods. See Dicyemata.


word: Mesozoic
definition:
Mesozoic

Mes`o*zo"ic
(?)
a.
[Meso- + Gr. _; life, fr. _; to live.]
(Geol.)
Belonging, or relating, to the secondary or reptilian age, or the era between the Paleozoic and Cenozoic. See Chart of Geology.


word: Mesprise
definition:
Mesprise

Mes*prise"
(?)
n.
[OF. mespris, F. mépris. See Misprize.]
1.
Contempt; scorn.
[Obs.]

2.
[Perh. for F. méprise mistake.  Cf. Misprision.]
Misadventure; ill-success.
[Obs.]
Spenser.


word: Mesquit
definition:
Mesquit

Mesquite

{ Mes*qui"te (mĕs*kē"ta̝), Mes*quit" (mĕs*kēt") }
n.
[Sp. mezquite; said to be a Mexican Indian word.]
(Bot.)
Aany of several small spiny trees or shrubs of the southwestern part of North America belonging to the genus Prosopis having small flowers in axillary cylindrical spikes followed by large sugar-rich pods, especially the honey mesquite, and screw-pod mesquite.

Honey mesquite. See Algaroba (b). -- Screw-pod mesquite, a smaller tree (Prosopis pubescens), having spiral pods used as fodder and sometimes as food by the Indians. -- Mesquite grass, a rich native grass in Western Texas (Bouteloua oligostachya, and other species); -- so called from its growing in company with the mesquite tree; -- called also muskit grass, grama grass.


word: Mess₂
definition:
Mess

Mess
(mĕs)
n.
[OE. mes, OF. mets, LL. missum, p. p. of mittere to put, place (e. g., on the table), L. mittere to send. See Mission, and cf. Mass religious service.]
1.
A quantity of food set on a table at one time; provision of food for a person or party for one meal; as, a mess of pottage; also, the food given to a beast at one time.

At their savory dinner set
Of herbs and other country messes.
Milton.

2.
A number of persons who eat together, and for whom food is prepared in common; especially, persons in the military or naval service who eat at the same table; as, the wardroom mess.
Shak.

3.
A set of four; -- from the old practice of dividing companies into sets of four at dinner.
[Obs.]
Latimer.

4.
The milk given by a cow at one milking.
[U.S.]

5.
[Perh. corrupt. fr. OE. mesh for mash: cf. muss.]
A disagreeable mixture or confusion of things; hence, a situation resulting from blundering or from misunderstanding; as, he made a mess of it.
[Colloq.]


word: Mess₃
definition:
Mess

Mess
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Messed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Messing.]
To take meals with a mess; to belong to a mess; to eat (with others); as, I mess with the wardroom officers.
Marryat.


word: Mess₄
definition:
Mess

Mess
v. t.
1.
To supply with a mess.

2.
To make a mess{5} of; to disorder or muddle; to muss; to jumble; to disturb; to mess up.

It was n't right either to be messing another man's sleep.
Scribner's Mag.


word: Message
definition:
Message

Mes"sage
(?; 48)
n.
[F., fr. LL. missaticum, fr. L. mittere, missum, to send. See Mission, and cf. Messenger.]
1.
Any notice, word, or communication, written or verbal, sent from one person to another.

Ehud said, I have a message from God unto thee.
Judg. iii. 20.

2.
Hence, specifically, an official communication, not made in person, but delivered by a messenger; as, the President's message.

Message shell. See Shell.


word: Message₃
definition:
Message

Mes"sage
n.
[OE., fr. OF. message, fr. LL. missaticus. See 1st Message.]
A messenger.
[Obs.]
Chaucer.


word: Message stick
definition:
Message stick

Mes"sage stick
A stick, carved with lines and dots, used, esp. by Australian aborigines, to convey information.


word: Mess beef
definition:
Mess beef

Mess beef
Barreled salt beef, packed with about 80 pounds chuck and rump, two flanks, and the rest plates.


word: Messenger
definition:
Messenger

Mes"sen*ger
(?)
n.
[OE. messager, OF. messagier, F. messager. See Message.]
1.
One who bears a message; the bearer of a verbal or written communication, notice, or invitation, from one person to another, or to a public body; specifically, an office servant who bears messages.

2.
One who, or that which, foreshows, or foretells.

Yon gray lines
That fret the clouds are messengers of day.
Shak.

3.
(Naut.)
A hawser passed round the capstan, and having its two ends lashed together to form an endless rope or chain; -- formerly used for heaving in the cable.

4.
(Law)
A person appointed to perform certain ministerial duties under bankrupt and insolvent laws, such as to take charge of the estate of the bankrupt or insolvent.
Bouvier. Tomlins.

Messenger bird, the secretary bird, from its swiftness.


word: Messiah
definition:
Messiah

Mes*si"ah
(?)
n.
[Heb. māshīakh anointed, fr. māshakh to anoint.  Cf. Messias.]
The expected king and deliverer of the Hebrews; the Savior; Christ.

And told them the Messiah now was born.
Milton.


word: Messianic
definition:
Messianic

Mes`si*an"ic
(?)
a.
Of or relating to the Messiah; as, the Messianic office or character.


word: Messias
definition:
Messias

Mes*si"as
(?)
n.
[LL., fr. Gr. _;. See Messiah.]
The Messiah.

I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ.
John iv. 25.


word: Messidor
definition:
Messidor

Mes`si`dor"
(F. ?; E. ?)
n.
[F., fr. L. messis harvest.]
The tenth month of the French republican calendar dating from September 22, 1792.  It began June 19, and ended July 18.  See Vendémiaire.


word: Messieurs
definition:
Messieurs

Mes"sieurs
(?; F. ?; 277)
n. pl.
[F.; pl. of monsieur.]
Sirs; gentlemen; -- abbreviated to Messrs., which is used as the plural of Mr.


word: Messuage
definition:
Messuage

Mes"suage
(?; 48)
n.
[Cf. OF. mesuage, masnage, LL. messuagium, mansionaticum, fr. L. mansio, -onis, a staying, remaining, dwelling, fr. manere, mansum, to stay, remain, E. mansion, manse.]
(Law)
A dwelling house, with the adjacent buildings and curtilage, and the adjoining lands appropriated to the use of the household.
Cowell. Bouvier.

They wedded her to sixty thousand pounds,
To lands in Kent, and messuages in York.
Tennyson.


word: mess up
definition:
mess up

mess up
(?)
v. t.
1.
To make a mess{5} of; to confuse, disorder, or muddle; to muss; to jumble; to disturb.

2.
To botch{3}; to bungle.


word: mess-up
definition:
mess-up

mess-up
n.
Something badly botched or muddled.
[British]

Syn. -- ballup, balls-up, cockup.


word: Mestee
definition:
Mestee

Mes*tee"
(?)
n.
[See Mestizo.]
The offspring of a white person and a quadroon; -- so called in the West Indies.
[Written also mustee.]


word: Mestizo
definition:
Mestizo

Mes*ti"zo
(?)
n.
pl. Mestizos (#).
[Sp. mestizo; akin to OF. mestis, F. métis; all fr. (assumed) LL. mixtitius, fr. L. mixtus mixed, p. p. of miscere to mix. See Mix, and cf. Mestee, Métif, Métis, Mustee.]
The offspring of an Indian or a negro and a European or person of European stock.
[Spanish America]

Mestizo wool, wool imported from South America, and produced by mixed breeds of sheep.


word: Mesymnicum
definition:
Mesymnicum

Me*sym"ni*cum
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. me`sos middle + _; a festive song. See Hymn.]
(Anc. Poetry)
A repetition at the end of a stanza.


word: Met-
definition:
Met-

Meta-

{ Met"a- (?), Met- (?) }
[Gr. meta` between, with, after; akin to AS. mid with, G. mit, Goth. miþ, E. mid, in midwife.]
1.
A prefix meaning between, with, after, behind, over, about, reversely; as, metachronism, the error of placing after the correct time; metaphor, lit., a carrying over; metathesis, a placing reversely.

2.
(Chem.)
(a)
Other; duplicate, corresponding to; resembling; hence, metameric; as, meta-arabinic, metaldehyde.
(b)
(Organic Chem.)
That two replacing radicals, in the benzene nucleus, occupy the relative positions of 1 and 3, 2 and 4, 3 and 5, 4 and 6, 5 and 1, or 6 and 2; as, metacresol, etc.  See Ortho-, and Para-.
(c)
(Inorganic Chem.)
Having less than the highest number of hydroxyl groups; -- said of acids; as, metaphosphoric acid. Also used adjectively.

3.
A prefix meaning at a level above, as in metaphysics, metalanguage.


word: Metabasis
definition:
Metabasis

Me*tab"a*sis
(?)
n.
pl. Metabases (#).
[NL., fr. Gr. _;, fr. _; to pass over; _; beyond, over + _; to go.]
1.
(Rhet.)
A transition from one subject to another.

2.
(Med.)
Same as Metabola.


word: Metabole
definition:
Metabole

Metabola

{ &VerbarMe*tab"o*la (?), &VerbarMe*tab"o*le (?), }
n.
[NL., from Gr. _; change; _; beyond + _; to throw.]
(Med.)
A change or mutation; a change of disease, symptoms, or treatment.


word: Metabolia
definition:
Metabolia

Metabola

{ &VerbarMe*tab"o*la (?), &VerbarMet`a*bo"li*a (?), }
n. pl.
[NL. See 1st Metabola.]
(Zool.)
A comprehensive group of insects, including those that undegro a metamorphosis.


word: Metabolian
definition:
Metabolian

Met`a*bo"li*an
(?)
n.
[See Metabola.]
(Zool.)
An insect which undergoes a metamorphosis.


word: Metabolic
definition:
Metabolic

Met`a*bol"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _;. See Metabola.]
1.
(Biol.)
Of or pertaining to metamorphosis; pertaining to, or involving, change.

2.
(Physiol.)
Of or pertaining to metabolism; as, metabolic activity; metabolic force.


word: Metabolism
definition:
Metabolism

Me*tab"o*lism
(?)
n.
(Physiol.)
1.
The act or process, by which living tissues or cells take up and convert into their own proper substance the nutritive material brought to them by the blood, or by which they transform their cell protoplasm into simpler substances, which are fitted either for excretion or for some special purpose, as in the manufacture of the digestive enzymes.  Hence, metabolism may be either constructive (anabolism), or destructive (catabolism).

2.
(Biol.)
The series of chemical changes which take place in an organism, by means of which food is manufactured and utilized and waste materials are eliminated.


word: Metabolite
definition:
Metabolite

Me*tab"o*lite
(?)
n.
(Physiol Chem.)
A product of metabolism; a substance produced by metabolic action, as urea.


word: Metabolize
definition:
Metabolize

Me*tab"o*lize
(?)
v. t. & i.
(Physiol.)
To change by a metabolic process. See Metabolism.


word: Metabranchial
definition:
Metabranchial

Met`a*bran"chi*al
(?)
a.
[Meta- + branchial.]
(Zool.)
Of or pertaining to the lobe of the carapace of crabs covering the posterior branchiae.


word: Metacarpus
definition:
Metacarpus

Met`a*car"pus
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _;; _; beyond, between + _; the wrist.]
(Anat.)
That part of the skeleton of the hand or forefoot between the carpus and phalanges. In man it consists of five bones. See Illust. of Artiodactyla.


word: Metacentre
definition:
Metacentre

Metacenter

{ Met`a*cen"ter (?) or Met`a*cen"tre }
n.
[Pref. meta- + center.]
(Hydrostatics)
The point of intersection of a vertical line through the center of gravity of the fluid displaced by a floating body which is tipped through a small angle from its position of equilibrium, and the inclined line which was vertical through the center of gravity of the body when in equilibrium.

&hand_; When the metacenter is above the center of gravity, the position of the body is stable; when below it, unstable.


word: Metacetone
definition:
Metacetone

Me*tac"e*tone
(?)
n.
[Pref. met- + acetone.]
(Chem.)
A colorless liquid of an agreeable odor, C6H10O, obtained by distilling a mixture of sugar and lime; -- so called because formerly regarded as a polymeric modification of acetone.


word: Metachloral
definition:
Metachloral

Met`a*chlo"ral
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + chloral.]
(Chem.)
A white, amorphous, insoluble substance regarded as a polymeric variety of chloral.


word: Metachronism
definition:
Metachronism

Me*tach"ro*nism
(?)
n.
[Gr. _;, _;, after the time, happening afterward; _; beyond + _; time: cf. F. métachronisme.]
An error committed in chronology by placing an event after its real time.


word: Metachrosis
definition:
Metachrosis

Met`a*chro"sis
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. _; beyond + _; a coloring.]
(Biol.)
The power of changing color at will by the expansion of special pigment cells, under nerve influence, as seen in many reptiles, fishes, etc.
Cope.


word: Metacinnabarite
definition:
Metacinnabarite

Met`a*cin"na*bar*ite
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + cinnabar.]
(Min.)
Sulphide of mercury in isometric form and black in color.


word: Metacism
definition:
Metacism

Met"a*cism
(?)
n.
[L. metacismus, Gr. _; fondness for the letter μ.]
A defect in pronouncing the letter m, or a too frequent use of it.


word: Metacrolein
definition:
Metacrolein

Met`a*cro"le*in
(?)
n.
[Pref. met- + acrolein.]
(Chem.)
A polymeric modification of acrolein obtained by heating it with caustic potash.  It is a crystalline substance having an aromatic odor.


word: Metacromion
definition:
Metacromion

Met`a*cro"mi*on
(?)
n.
[NL.]
(Anat.)
A process projecting backward and downward from the acromion of the scapula of some mammals.


word: Metadiscoidal
definition:
Metadiscoidal

Met`a*dis*coid"al
(?)
a.
[Meta- + discoidal.]
(Anat.)
Discoidal by derivation; -- applied especially to the placenta of man and apes, because it is supposed to have been derived from a diffused placenta.


word: Metagastric
definition:
Metagastric

Met`a*gas"tric
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + gastric.]
(Zool.)
Of or pertaining to the two posterior gastric lobes of the carapace of crabs.


word: Metage
definition:
Metage

Met"age
(?; 48)
n.
[From Mete, v.]
1.
Measurement, especially of coal.
De Foe.

2.
Charge for, or price of, measuring.
Simmonds.


word: Metagenesis
definition:
Metagenesis

Met`a*gen"e*sis
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + genesis.]
1.
(Biol.)
The change of form which one animal species undergoes in a series of successively produced individuals, extending from the one developed from the ovum to the final perfected individual.  Hence, metagenesis involves the production of sexual individuals by nonsexual means, either directly or through intervening sexless generations.  Opposed to monogenesis. See Alternate generation, under Generation.

2.
(Biol.)
Alternation of sexual and asexual or gemmiparous generations; -- in distinction from heterogamy.


word: Metagnathous
definition:
Metagnathous

Me*tag"na*thous
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + Gr. gna`qos the jaw.]
(Zool.)
Cross-billed; -- said of certain birds, as the crossbill.


word: Metagraphy
definition:
Metagraphy

Me*tag"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + -graphy.]
The art or act of rendering the letters of the alphabet of one language into the possible equivalents of another; transliteration.
Stormonth.


word: Metal
definition:
Metal

Met"al
(? or ?; 277)
n.
[F. métal, L. metallum metal, mine, Gr. _; mine; cf. Gr. _; to search after.  Cf. Mettle, Medal.]
1.
(Chem.)
An elementary substance, as sodium, calcium, or copper, whose oxide or hydroxide has basic rather than acid properties, as contrasted with the nonmetals, or metalloids.  No sharp line can be drawn between the metals and nonmetals, and certain elements partake of both acid and basic qualities, as chromium, manganese, bismuth, etc.

&hand_; Popularly, the name is applied to certain hard, fusible metals, as gold, silver, copper, iron, tin, lead, zinc, nickel, etc., and also to the mixed metals, or metallic alloys, as brass, bronze, steel, bell metal, etc.

2.
Ore from which a metal is derived; -- so called by miners.
Raymond.

3.
A mine from which ores are taken.
[Obs.]

Slaves . . . and persons condemned to metals.
Jer. Taylor.

4.
The substance of which anything is made; material; hence, constitutional disposition; character; temper.

Not till God make men of some other metal than earth.
Shak.

5.
Courage; spirit; mettle. See Mettle.
Shak.

&hand_; The allusion is to the temper of the metal of a sword blade.
Skeat.

6.
The broken stone used in macadamizing roads and ballasting railroads.

7.
The effective power or caliber of guns carried by a vessel of war.

8.
Glass in a state of fusion.
Knight.

9.
pl.
The rails of a railroad.
[Eng.]

Base metal (Chem.), any one of the metals, as iron, lead, etc., which are readily tarnished or oxidized, in contrast with the noble metals.  In general, a metal of small value, as compared with gold or silver. -- Fusible metal (Metal.), a very fusible alloy, usually consisting of bismuth with lead, tin, or cadmium. -- Heavy metals (Chem.), the metallic elements not included in the groups of the alkalies, alkaline earths, or the earths; specifically, the heavy metals, as gold, mercury, platinum, lead, silver, etc. -- Light metals (Chem.), the metallic elements of the alkali and alkaline earth groups, as sodium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, etc.; also, sometimes, the metals of the earths, as aluminium. -- Muntz metal, an alloy for sheathing and other purposes, consisting of about sixty per cent of copper, and forty of zinc.  Sometimes a little lead is added.  It is named from the inventor. -- Prince's metal (Old Chem.), an alloy resembling brass, consisting of three parts of copper to one of zinc; -- also called Prince Rupert's metal.


word: Metal₂
definition:
Metal

Met"al
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Metaled (? or ?) or Metalled; p. pr. & vb. n. Metaling or Metalling.]
To cover with metal; as, to metal a ship's bottom; to metal a road.


word: Metalammonium
definition:
Metalammonium

Met`al*am*mo"ni*um
(?)
n.
[Metal + ammonium.]
(Chem.)
A hypothetical radical derived from ammonium by the substitution of metallic atoms in place of hydrogen.


word: metalanguage
definition:
metalanguage

metalanguage
n.
Any language that can be used to describe another language or system of symbols.


word: Metalbumin
definition:
Metalbumin

Met`al*bu"min
(?)
n.
[Pref. met- + albumin.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
A form of albumin found in ascitic and certain serous fluids.  It is sometimes regarded as a mixture of albumin and mucin.


word: Metaldehyde
definition:
Metaldehyde

Me*tal"de*hyde
(?)
n.
[Pref. met- + aldehyde.]
(Chem.)
A white crystalline substance isomeric with, and obtained from, acetic aldehyde by polymerization, and reconvertible into the same.


word: Metalepsis
definition:
Metalepsis

Met`a*lep"sis
(?)
n.
pl. Metalepses (#).
[L., fr. Gr. _; participation, alteration, fr. _; to partake, to take in exchange; _; beyond + _; to take.]
(Rhet.)
The continuation of a trope in one word through a succession of significations, or the union of two or more tropes of a different kind in one word.


word: Metaleptic
definition:
Metaleptic

Met`a*lep"tic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _;]
1.
Of or pertaining to a metalepsis.

2.
Transverse; as, the metaleptic motion of a muscle.

3.
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, concerned in, or occurring by, metalepsy.


word: Metallic
definition:
Metallic

Me*tal"lic
(?)
a.
[L. metallicus, fr. metallum: cf. F. métallique. See Metal.]
1.
Of or pertaining to a metal; of the nature of metal; resembling metal; as, a metallic appearance; a metallic alloy.

2.
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or characterized by, the essential and implied properties of a metal, as contrasted with a nonmetal or metalloid; conductive of electricity; basic; forming positive ions in solution; antacid.

Metallic iron, iron in the state of the metal, as distinquished from its ores, as magnetic iron. -- Metallic paper, paper covered with a thin solution of lime, whiting, and size.  When written upon with a pewter or brass pencil, the lines can hardly be effaced. -- Metallic tinking (Med.), a sound heard in the chest, when a cavity communicating with the air passages contains both air and liquid.


word: Metallifacture
definition:
Metallifacture

Me*tal`li*fac"ture
(?; 135)
n.
[L. metallum metal + facere, factum, to make.]
The production and working or manufacture of metals.
[R.]
R. Park.


word: Metalliferous
definition:
Metalliferous

Met`al*lif"er*ous
(?)
a.
[L. metallifer; metallum metal + ferre to bear: cf. F. métallifère.]
Producing metals; yielding metals.


word: Metalliform
definition:
Metalliform

Me*tal"li*form
(?)
a.
[L. metallum metal + -form: cf. F. métalliforme.]
Having the form or structure of a metal.


word: Metalline
definition:
Metalline

Met"al*line
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. métallin.]
(Chem.)
(a)
Pertaining to, or resembling, a metal; metallic; as, metalline properties.
(b)
Impregnated with metallic salts; chalybeate; as, metalline water.
[R.]


word: Metalline₂
definition:
Metalline

Met"al*line
(? or ?)
n.
(Chem.)
A substance of variable composition, but resembling a soft, dark-colored metal, used in the bearings of machines for obviating friction, and as a substitute for lubricants.


word: Metallization
definition:
Metallization

Met`al*li*za"tion
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. métallisation.]
The act or process of metallizing.
[R.]


word: Metallize
definition:
Metallize

Met"al*lize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Metallized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Metallizing (?).]
[Cf. F. métalliser.]
To impart metallic properties to; to impregnate with a metal.
[R.]


word: Metallochrome
definition:
Metallochrome

Me*tal"lo*chrome
(?)
n.
[See Metallochromy.]
A coloring produced by the deposition of some metallic compound; specifically, the prismatic tints produced by depositing a film of peroxide of lead on polished steel by electricity.


word: Metallochromy
definition:
Metallochromy

Me*tal"lo*chro`my
(?)
n.
[L. metallum metal + Gr. _; color.]
The art or process of coloring metals.


word: Metallography
definition:
Metallography

Met`al*log"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[L. metallum metal + -graphy: cf. F. métallographie.]
1.
The science or art of metals and metal working; also, a treatise on metals.

2.
A method of transferring impressions of the grain of wood to metallic surfaces by chemical action.
Knight.

3.
A substitute for lithography, in which metallic plates are used instead of stone.
Knight.


word: Metalloid
definition:
Metalloid

Met"al*loid
(?)
n.
[L. metallum metal + -oid: cf. F. métalloïde.]
(a)
Formerly, the metallic base of a fixed alkali, or alkaline earth; -- applied by Sir Humphrey Davy to sodium, potassium, and some other metallic substances whose metallic character was supposed to be not well defined.
(b)
Now, one of several elementary substances which in the free state are unlike metals, and whose compounds possess or produce acid, rather than basic, properties; a nonmetal; as, boron, carbon, phosphorus, nitrogen, oxygen, sulphur, chlorine, bromine, etc., are metalloids.


word: Metalloid₂
definition:
Metalloid

Met"al*loid
a.
1.
Having the appearance of a metal.

2.
(Chem.)
Having the properties of a nonmetal; nonmetallic; acid; negative.


word: Metallophone
definition:
Metallophone

Me*tal"lo*phone
(?)
n.
[L. metallum metal + Gr. _; sound.]
(Music)
(a)
An instrument like a pianoforte, but having metal bars instead of strings.
(b)
An instrument like the xylophone, but having metallic instead of wooden bars.


word: Metallotherapy
definition:
Metallotherapy

Me*tal`lo*ther"a*py
(?)
n.
[L. metallum metal + E. therapy.]
(Med.)
Treatment of disease by applying metallic plates to the surface of the body.


word: Metallurgical
definition:
Metallurgical

Metallurgic

{ Met`al*lur"gic (?), Met`al*lur"gic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. métallurgique.]
Of or pertaining to metallurgy.


word: Metallurgist
definition:
Metallurgist

Met"al*lur`gist
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. métallurgiste.]
One who works in metals, or prepares them for use; one who is skilled in metallurgy.


word: Metallurgy
definition:
Metallurgy

Met"al*lur`gy
(?)
n.
[F. métallurgie, fr. L. metallum metal, Gr. _; a mine + the root of _; work. See Metal, and Work.]
The art of working metals, comprehending the whole process of separating them from other matters in the ore, smelting, refining, and parting them; sometimes, in a narrower sense, only the process of extracting metals from their ores.


word: metalorganic
definition:
metalorganic

met`al*or*gan"ic
(?)
a.
[Metal, L. metallum + E. organic.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or denoting, any one of a series of compounds of certain metallic elements with organic radicals; as, zinc methyl, sodium ethyl, etc.; now usually organometallic.
[Written also metallorganic.]


word: Metamer
definition:
Metamer

Met"a*mer
(?)
n.
[See Metamere.]
(Chem.)
Any one of several metameric forms of the same substance, or of different substances having the same composition; as, xylene has three metamers, viz., orthoxylene, metaxylene, and paraxylene; an isomer.


word: Metamere
definition:
Metamere

Met"a*mere
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + -mere.]
(Biol.)
One of successive or homodynamous parts in animals and plants; one of a series of similar parts that follow one another in a vertebrate or articulate animal, as in an earthworm; a segment; a somite. See Illust. of Loeven's larva.


word: Metameric
definition:
Metameric

Met`a*mer"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + Gr. _; part.]
1.
(Chem.)
Having the same molecular formula, but possessing a different bonding structure and different properties; as, methyl ether and ethyl alcohol are metameric compounds.  See Isomeric.

&hand_; The existence of metameric compounds is due to different arrangements of the same atoms in the molecule.

2.
(Biol.)
Of or pertaining to a metamere or its formation; as, metameric segmentation.


word: Metamerism
definition:
Metamerism

Me*tam"er*ism
(?)
n.
1.
(Biol.)
The symmetry of a metameric structure; serial symmetry; the state of being made up of metameres.

2.
(Chem.)
The state or quality of being metameric; isomerism due to different bonding patterns in two substances having the same molecular formula.  Contrasted with steroisomerism or optical isomerism.  Also, the relation or condition of metameric compounds.


word: Metamorphic
definition:
Metamorphic

Met`a*mor"phic
(?)
a.
[See Metamorphosis.]
1.
Subject to change; changeable; variable.

2.
Causing a change of structure.

3.
(Geol.)
Pertaining to, produced by, or exhibiting, certain changes which minerals or rocks may have undergone since their original deposition; -- especially applied to the recrystallization which sedimentary rocks have undergone through the influence of heat and pressure, after which they are called metamorphic rocks.


word: Metamorphism
definition:
Metamorphism

Met`a*mor"phism
(?)
n.
(Geol.)
The state or quality of being metamorphic; the process by which the material of rock masses has been more or less recrystallized by heat, pressure, etc., as in the change of sedimentary limestone to marble.
Murchison.


word: Metamorphist
definition:
Metamorphist

Met`a*mor"phist
(?)
n.
(Eccl.)
One who believes that the body of Christ was merged into the Deity when he ascended.


word: Metamorphose
definition:
Metamorphose

Met`a*mor"phose
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Metamorphosed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Metamorphosing.]
[Cf. F. métamorphoser.]
To change into a different form; to transform; to transmute.

And earth was metamorphosed into man.
Dryden.


word: Metamorphose₂
definition:
Metamorphose

Met`a*mor"phose
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. métamorphose. See Metamorphosis.]
Same as Metamorphosis.


word: Metamorphosis
definition:
Metamorphosis

Met`a*mor"pho*sis
(?)
n.
pl. Metamorphoses (#).
[L., fr. Gr. _;, fr. _; to be transformed; meta` beyond, over + morfh` form.]

1.
Change of form, or structure; transformation.

2.
(Biol.)
A change in the form or function of a living organism, by a natural process of growth or development; as, the metamorphosis of the yolk into the embryo, of a tadpole into a frog, or of a bud into a blossom. Especially, that form of sexual reproduction in which an embryo undergoes a series of marked changes of external form, as the chrysalis stage, pupa stage, etc., in insects.  In these intermediate stages sexual reproduction is usually impossible, but they ultimately pass into final and sexually developed forms, from the union of which organisms are produced which pass through the same cycle of changes. See Transformation.

3.
(Physiol.)
The change of material of one kind into another through the agency of the living organism; metabolism.

Vegetable metamorphosis (Bot.), the doctrine that flowers are homologous with leaf buds, and that the floral organs are transformed leaves.


word: Metanauplius
definition:
Metanauplius

Met`a*nau"pli*us
(?)
n.
[NL. See Meta-, and Nauplius.]
(Zool.)
A larval crustacean in a stage following the nauplius, and having about seven pairs of appendages.


word: Metanephros
definition:
Metanephros

Met`a*neph"ros
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; behind + _; kidney.]
(Anat.)
The most posterior of the three pairs of embryonic renal organs developed in many vertebrates.


word: Metanotum
definition:
Metanotum

Met`a*no"tum
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; behind + _; back.]
(Zool.)
The dorsal portion of the metaphorax of insects.


word: Metantimonic
definition:
Metantimonic

Met`an*ti*mon"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. met- + antimonic.]
(Chem.)
(a)
Pertaining to, or designating, an acid (formerly called antimonic acid) analogous to metaphosphoric acid, and obtained as a white amorphous insoluble substance, (HSbO3).
(b)
Formerly, designating an acid, which is now properly called pyroantimonic acid, and analogous to pyrophosphoric acid.


word: Metapectic
definition:
Metapectic

Met`a*pec"tic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + pectic.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a supposed acid obtained from pectin.


word: Metapectin
definition:
Metapectin

Met`a*pec"tin
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A substance obtained from, and resembling, pectin, and occurring in overripe fruits.


word: Metapeptone
definition:
Metapeptone

Met`a*pep"tone
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + peptone.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
An intermediate product formed in the gastric digestion of albuminous matter.


word: metaphor
definition:
metaphor

met"a*phor`
(mĕt"ȧ*fôr` or mĕt"ȧ*fẽr)
n.
[F. métaphore, L. metaphora, fr. Gr. metafora`, fr. metafe`rein to carry over, transfer; meta` beyond, over + fe`rein to bring, bear.]
(Rhet.)
The transference of the relation between one set of objects to another set for the purpose of brief explanation; a compressed simile; e. g., the ship plows the sea.
Abbott & Seeley.
Shak.

&hand_; The statement, “that man is a fox,” is a metaphor; but “that man is like a fox,” is a simile, similitude, or comparison.


word: Metaphorical
definition:
Metaphorical

Metaphoric

{ Met`a*phor"ic (?), Met`a*phor"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Gr. _;: cf. F. métaphorique.]
Of or pertaining to metaphor; comprising a metaphor; not literal; figurative; tropical; as, a metaphorical expression; a metaphorical sense.
Met`a*phor"ic*al*ly, adv. -- Met`a*phor"ic*al*ness, n.


word: metaphosphoric
definition:
metaphosphoric

met`a*phos*phor"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + phosphoric.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a monobasic acid, HPO3, analogous to nitric acid, and, by heating phosphoric acid, obtained as a crystalline substance, commonly called glacial phosphoric acid.  Compare the tribasic orthophosphoric acid.


word: Metaphrase
definition:
Metaphrase

Met"a*phrase
(mĕt"ȧ*frāz)
n.
[Gr. meta`frasis, from metafra`zein to paraphrase; meta` beyond, over + fra`zein to speak: cf. F. métaphrase.]
1.
A verbal translation; a version or translation from one language into another, word for word; a literal translation; -- opposed to paraphrase.
Dryden.

2.
An answering phrase; repartee.
Mrs. Browning.


word: Metaphrastical
definition:
Metaphrastical

Metaphrastic

{ Met`a*phras"tic (?), Met`a*phras"tic*al (?), }
a.
[Gr. _;.]
Close, or literal.


word: Metaphysical
definition:
Metaphysical

Met`a*phys"ic*al
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. métaphysique. See Metaphysics.]
1.
Of or pertaining to metaphysics.

2.
According to rules or principles of metaphysics; as, metaphysical reasoning.

3.
Preternatural or supernatural.
[Obs.]

The golden round
Which fate and metaphysical aid doth seem
To have thee crowned withal.
Shak.


word: Metaphysically
definition:
Metaphysically

Met`a*phys"ic*al*ly
adv.
In the manner of metaphysical science, or of a metaphysician.
South.


word: Metaphysics
definition:
Metaphysics

Met`a*phys"ics
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; _; _; after those things which relate to external nature, after physics, fr. _; beyond, after + _; relating to external nature, natural, physical, fr. _; nature: cf. F. métaphysique. See Physics. The term was first used by the followers of Aristotle as a name for that part of his writings which came after, or followed, the part which treated of physics.]
1.
The science of real as distinguished from phenomenal being; ontology; also, the science of being, with reference to its abstract and universal conditions, as distinguished from the science of determined or concrete being; the science of the conceptions and relations which are necessarily implied as true of every kind of being; philosophy in general; first principles, or the science of first principles.

&hand_; Metaphysics is distinguished as general and special. General metaphysics is the science of all being as being. Special metaphysics is the science of one kind of being; as, the metaphysics of chemistry, of morals, or of politics.  According to Kant, a systematic exposition of those notions and truths, the knowledge of which is altogether independent of experience, would constitute the science of metaphysics.

Commonly, in the schools, called metaphysics, as being part of the philosophy of Aristotle, which hath that for title; but it is in another sense: for there it signifieth as much as “books written or placed after his natural philosophy.”  But the schools take them for “books of supernatural philosophy;” for the word metaphysic will bear both these senses.
Hobbes.

Now the science conversant about all such inferences of unknown being from its known manifestations, is called ontology, or metaphysics proper.
Sir W. Hamilton.

Metaphysics are [is] the science which determines what can and what can not be known of being, and the laws of being, a priori.
Coleridge.

2.
Hence:
The scientific knowledge of mental phenomena; mental philosophy; psychology.

Metaphysics, in whatever latitude the term be taken, is a science or complement of sciences exclusively occupied with mind.
Sir W. Hamilton.

Whether, after all,
A larger metaphysics might not help
Our physics.
Mrs. Browning.


word: Metaphysis
definition:
Metaphysis

Me*taph"y*sis
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; after + _; nature.]
Change of form; transformation.


word: Metaplasm
definition:
Metaplasm

Met"a*plasm
(?)
n.
[L. metaplasmus, Gr. _;; _; beyond, over + _; to mold: cf. F. métaplasme.]
(Gram.)
A change in the letters or syllables of a word.


word: Metaplast
definition:
Metaplast

Met"a*plast
(?)
n.
[See Metaplasm.]
(Gram.)
A word having more than one form of the root.


word: Metapode
definition:
Metapode

Met"a*pode
(?)
n.
[NL. metapodium, from Gr. _; behind + _;, dim. of poy`s, podo`s, foot.]
(Zool.)
The posterior division of the foot in the Gastropoda and Pteropoda.


word: Metapodial
definition:
Metapodial

Met`a*po"di*al
(?)
a.
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the metapodialia, or to the parts of the limbs to which they belong.


word: Metapodiale
definition:
Metapodiale

Met`a*po`di*a"le
(?)
n.
pl. Metapodialia (#).
[NL. See Metapode.]
(Anat.)
One of the bones of either the metacarpus or metatarsus.


word: Metapophysis
definition:
Metapophysis

Met`a*poph"y*sis
(?)
n.
pl. Metapophyses (#).
[NL. See Meta-, and Apophysis.]
(Anat.)
A tubercle projecting from the anterior articular processes of some vertebrae; a mammillary process.


word: Metapterygium
definition:
Metapterygium

Me*tap`te*ryg"i*um
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; after + _; fin.]
(Anat.)
The posterior of the three principal basal cartilages in the fins of fishes.
Me*tap`ter*yg"i*al (#), a.


word: Metasilicic
definition:
Metasilicic

Met`a*si*lic"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + silicic.]
(Chem.)
Designating an acid derived from silicic acid by the removal of water; of or pertaining to such an acid.

&hand_; The salts of metasilicic acid are often called bisilicates, in mineralogy, as Wollastonite (CaSiO3).

Metasilicic acid (Chem.), a gelatinous substance, or white amorphous powder, analogous to carbonic acid, and forming many stable salts.


word: Metasomatism
definition:
Metasomatism

Met`a*so"ma*tism
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + Gr. _;, _;, body.]
(Geol.)
An alteration in a mineral or rock mass when involving a chemical change of the substance, as of chrysolite to serpentine; -- opposed to ordinary metamorphism, as implying simply a recrystallization.
Met`a*so*mat"ic (#), a.


word: Metasome
definition:
Metasome

Met"a*some
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + -some body.]
(Zool.)
One of the component segments of the body of an animal.


word: Metastannic
definition:
Metastannic

Met`a*stan"nic
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a compound of tin (metastannic acid), obtained, as an isomeric modification of stannic acid, in the form of a white amorphous substance.


word: Metastasis
definition:
Metastasis

Me*tas"ta*sis
(?)
n.
pl. Metastases (#).
[L., transition, fr. Gr. _;, fr. _; to place in another way; _; after + _; to place.]
1.
(Theol.)
A spiritual change, as during baptism.

2.
(Med.)
A change in the location of a disease, as from one part to another.
Dunglison.

3.
Especially:
The migration of cancerous or malignant cells from the site of their origin to other parts of the body.  Such cells may migrate to multiple new locations, making therapy more difficult and often leading to death.

4.
(Physiol.)
The act or process by which matter is taken up by cells or tissues and is transformed into other matter; in plants, the act or process by which are produced all of those chemical changes in the constituents of the plant which are not accompanied by a production of organic matter; metabolism.


word: metastasize
definition:
metastasize

metastasize
v.
to spread from one part of the body to other parts, and grow there; to spread by metastasis{3}; -- said of cancer cells.


word: Metastatic
definition:
Metastatic

Met`a*stat"ic
(?)
a.
Of, pertaining to, or caused by, metastasis; as, a metastatic abscess; the metastatic processes of growth; a metastatic tumor.


word: Metasternum
definition:
Metasternum

Met`a*ster"num
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + sternum.]
1.
(Anat.)
The most posterior element of the sternum; the ensiform process; xiphisternum.

2.
(Zool.)
The ventral plate of the third or last segment of the thorax of insects.


word: Metastome
definition:
Metastome

Metastoma

{ &VerbarMe*tas"to*ma (?), Met"a*stome (?), }
n.
[NL. metastoma, from Gr. meta` behind + sto`ma mouth.]
(Zool.)
A median elevation behind the mouth in the arthropods.


word: Metatarsus
definition:
Metatarsus

Met`a*tar"sus
(?)
n.
pl. Metatarsi (#).
[NL. See Meta-, and Tarsus.]
(Anat.)
That part of the skeleton of the hind or lower limb between the tarsus and phalanges; metatarse. It consists, in the human foot, of five bones. See Illustration in Appendix.


word: metate
definition:
metate

me*ta"te
(ma̝*tä"ta̝)
n.
[Sp., fr. Mex. metlatl.]
A flat or somewhat hollowed stone upon which grain or other food is ground, by means of a smaller stone or pestle.
[Southwestern U. S. & Sp. Amer.]


word: metatherian
definition:
metatherian

metatherian
n.
Any of a group of primitive pouched mammals found mainly in Australia and the Americas.


word: Metathesis
definition:
Metathesis

Me*tath"e*sis
(?)
n.
pl. Metatheses (_;).
[L., fr. Gr. meta`qesis, fr. metatiqe`nai to place differently, to transpose; meta` beyond, over + tiqe`nai to place, set. See Thesis.]
1.
(Gram.)
Transposition, as of the letters or syllables of a word; as, pistris for pristis; meagre for meager.

2.
(Med.)
A mere change in place of a morbid substance, without removal from the body.

3.
(Chem.)
The act, process, or result of exchange, substitution, or replacement of atoms and radicals; thus, by metathesis an acid gives up all or part of its hydrogen, takes on an equivalent amount of a metal or base, and forms a salt.


word: Metathetical
definition:
Metathetical

Metathetic

{ Met`a*thet"ic (?), Met`a*thet"ic*al (?), }
a.
Of or pertaining to metathesis.


word: Metathorax
definition:
Metathorax

Met`a*tho"rax
(?)
n.
[NL.: cf. F. métathorax. See Meta-, and Thorax.]
(Zool.)
The last or posterior segment of the thorax in insects. See Illust. of Coleoptera.


word: Metatitanic
definition:
Metatitanic

Met`a*ti*tan"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + titanic.]
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or designating, an acid of titanium analogous to metasilicic acid.


word: Metatungstic
definition:
Metatungstic

Met`a*tung"stic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + tungstic.]
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or designating, an acid known only in its salts (the metatungstates) and properly called polytungstic, or pyrotungstic, acid.


word: Metavanadic
definition:
Metavanadic

Met`a*va*nad"ic
(?)
a.
[Pref. meta- + vanadic.]
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or designating, a vanadic acid analogous to metaphosphoric acid.


word: Metaxylene
definition:
Metaxylene

Met`a*xy"lene
(?)
n.
[Pref. meta- + xylene.]
(Chem.)
That variety of xylene, or dimethyl benzene, in which the two methyl groups occupy the meta position with reference to each other. It is a colorless inflammable liquid.


word: Metayer
definition:
Metayer

Mé`ta`yer"
(F. ?; E. ?)
n.
[F., fr. LL. medietarius, fr. L. medius middle, half. See Mid, a.]
One who cultivates land for a share (usually one half) of its yield, receiving stock, tools, and seed from the landlord; a type of sharecropper.
[France & Italy]
Milman.


word: Metazoa
definition:
Metazoa

Met`a*zo"a
(?)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; after + zw^,on an animal.]
(Zool.)
Those animals in which the protoplasmic mass, constituting the egg, is converted into a multitude of cells, which are metamorphosed into the tissues of the body.  A central cavity is commonly developed, and the cells around it are at first arranged in two layers, -- the ectoderm and endoderm.  The group comprises nearly all animals except the Protozoa.


word: Mete₃
definition:
Mete

Mete
v. i. & t.
[imp. Mette (?); p. p. Met.]
[AS. m_;tan.]
To dream; also impersonally; as, me mette, I dreamed.
[Obs.]
mette
Chaucer.


word: Mete₄
definition:
Mete

Mete
(mēt)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Meted; p. pr. & vb. n. Meting.]
[AS. metan; akin to D. meten, G. messen, OHG. mezzan, Icel. meta, Sw. mäta, Goth. mitan, L. modus measure, moderation, modius a corn measure, Gr. _; to rule, _; a corn measure, and ultimately from the same root as E. measure, L. metiri to measure; cf. Skr. mā to measure. √99.  Cf. Measure, Meet, a., Mode.]
To find the quantity, dimensions, or capacity of, by any rule or standard; to measure.


word: Mete₆
definition:
Mete

Mete
n.
[AS. met. See Mete to measure.]
Measure; limit; boundary; -- used chiefly in the plural, and in the phrase metes and bounds.


word: Metecorn
definition:
Metecorn

Mete"corn`
(?)
n.
A quantity of corn formerly given by the lord to his customary tenants, as an encouragement to, or reward for, labor and faithful service.


word: Metempirical
definition:
Metempirical

Metempiric

{ Met`em*pir"ic (?), Met`em*pir"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Pref. met- + empiric, -ical.]
(Metaph.)
Related, or belonging, to the objects of knowledge within the province of metempirics.

If then the empirical designates the province we include within the range of science, the province we exclude may be fitly styled the metempirical.
G. H. Lewes.


word: Metempirics
definition:
Metempirics

Met`em*pir"ics
(?)
n.
The concepts and relations which are conceived as beyond, and yet as related to, the knowledge gained by experience.


word: Metempsychose
definition:
Metempsychose

Me*temp"sy*chose
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Metempsychosed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Metempsychosing (?).]
[See Metempsychosis.]
To translate or transfer, as the soul, from one body to another.
[R.]
Peacham.


word: Metempsychosis
definition:
Metempsychosis

Me*temp`sy*cho"sis
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _;; _; beyond, over + _; to animate; _; in + _; soul. See Psychology.]
The passage of the soul, as an immortal essence, at the death of the animal body it had inhabited, into another living body, whether of a brute or a human being; transmigration of souls.
Sir T. Browne.


word: Metemptosis
definition:
Metemptosis

Met`emp*to"sis
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. _; beyond, after + _; a falling upon, fr. _; to fall in or upon; _; in + _; to fall.]
(Chron.)
The suppression of a day in the calendar to prevent the date of the new moon being set a day too late, or the suppression of the bissextile day once in 134 years.  The opposite to this is the proemptosis, or the addition of a day every 330 years, and another every 2,400 years.


word: Metencephalon
definition:
Metencephalon

Met`en*ceph"a*lon
(?)
n.
[Met- + encephalon.]
(Anat.)
The posterior part of the brain, including the medulla; the afterbrain. Sometimes abbreviated to meten.


word: Metensomatosis
definition:
Metensomatosis

Met`en*so`ma*to"sis
(?)
n.
[L., a change of body (by the soul), fr. Gr. _;.]
(Biol.)
The assimilation by one body or organism of the elements of another.


word: Meteor
definition:
Meteor

Me"te*or
(?)
n.
[F. météore, Gr. _;, pl. _; things in the air, fr. _; high in air, raised off the ground; _; beyond + _;, _;, a suspension or hovering in the air, fr. _; to lift, raise up.]

1.
Any phenomenon or appearance in the atmosphere, as clouds, rain, hail, snow, etc.

Hail, an ordinary meteor.
Bp. Hall.

2.
Specif.: A transient luminous body or appearance seen in the atmosphere, or in a more elevated region.

The vaulty top of heaven
Figured quite o'er with burning meteors.
Shak.

3.
A mass of stone or other substance which sometimes falls to the earth from space beyond the moon, burning up from atomospheric friction and creating a brilliant but usually very brief trail of light in the atmosphere; also called a shooting star.

&hand_; The term is especially applied to fireballs, and the masses of stone or other substances which sometimes fall to the earth; also to shooting stars and to ignes fatui. Meteors are often classed as: aerial meteors, winds, tornadoes, etc.; aqueous meteors, rain, hail, snow, dew, etc.; luminous meteors, rainbows, halos, etc.; and igneous meteors, lightning, shooting stars, and the like.


word: Meteoric
definition:
Meteoric

Me`te*or"ic
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. météorique.]
1.
Of or pertaining to a meteor, or to meteors; atmospheric, as, meteoric phenomena; meteoric stones.

2.
Influenced by the weather; as, meteoric conditions.

3.
Flashing; transient and brilliant, like a meteor{3}; as, meteoric fame.
Meteoric
Craik.

Meteoric iron, Meteoric stone. (Min.) See Meteorite. -- Meteoric paper, a substance of confervoid origin found floating in the air, and resembling bits of coarse paper; -- so called because formerly supposed to fall from meteors. -- Meteoric showers, periodical exhibitions of shooting stars, occuring about the 9th or 10th of August and 13th of November, more rarely in April and December, and also at some other periods.


word: Meteorite
definition:
Meteorite

Me"te*or*ite
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. météorite.]
(Min.)
A mass of stone or iron which has fallen to the earth from space; an aerolite.

&hand_; Meteorites usually show a pitted surface with a fused crust, caused by the heat developed in their rapid passage through the earth's atmosphere. A meteorite may consist: 1. Of metallic iron, alloyed with a small percentage of nickel (meteoric iron, holosiderite). When etched this usually exhibits peculiar crystalline figures, called Widmanstätten figures. 2. Of a cellular mass of iron with imbedded silicates (mesosiderite or siderolite). 3. Of a stony mass of silicates with little iron (meteoric stone, sporadosiderite). 4. Of a mass without iron (asiderite).


word: Meteorize
definition:
Meteorize

Me"te*or*ize
(?)
v. i.
[Gr. _; to raise to a height.]
To ascend in vapors; to take the form of a meteor.
Evelyn.


word: Meteorograph
definition:
Meteorograph

Me`te*or"o*graph
(?)
n.
[Meteor + -graph.]
An instrument which registers meteorologic phases or conditions.


word: Meteorography
definition:
Meteorography

Me`te*or*og"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[Meteor + -graphy.]
The registration of meteorological phenomena.


word: Meteoroid
definition:
Meteoroid

Me"te*or*oid
(mē"te̝*ẽr*oid)
n.
[Meteor + -oid.]
(Astron.)
A small body moving through space, or revolving about the sun, which on entering the earth's atmosphere would be deflagrated and appear as a meteor.

These bodies [small, solid bodies] before they come into the air, I call meteoroids.
H. A. Newton.


word: Meteorolite
definition:
Meteorolite

Me`te*or"o*lite
(?; 277)
n.
[Meteor + -lite : cf. F. météorolithe.]
A meteoric stone; an aerolite; a meteorite.


word: Meteorological
definition:
Meteorological

Meteorologic

{ Me`te*or`o*log"ic (?), Me`te*or`o*log"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Gr. _;: cf. F. météorologique.]
Of or pertaining to the atmosphere and its phenomena, or to meteorology.

Meteorological table, Meteorological register, a table or register exhibiting the state of the air and its temperature, weight, dryness, moisture, motion, etc.


word: Meteorology
definition:
Meteorology

Me`te*or*ol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. _;; _; + lo`gos discourse: cf. F. météorologie. See Meteor.]
The science which treats of the atmosphere and its phenomena, particularly of its variations of heat and moisture, of its winds, storms, etc.


word: Meteoromancy
definition:
Meteoromancy

Me`te*or"o*man`cy
(?)
n.
[Meteor + -mancy : cf. F. météoromancie.]
A species of divination by atmospheric phenomena, chiefly by thunder and lightning, which was held in high estimation by the Romans.


word: Meteorometer
definition:
Meteorometer

Me`te*or*om"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Meteor + -meter.]
An apparatus which transmits automatically to a central station atmospheric conditions as marked by the anemometer, barometer, thermometer, etc.


word: Meteoroscope
definition:
Meteoroscope

Me`te*or"o*scope
(?; 277)
n.
[Gr. _;, fr. _; observing the heavenly bodies; _; + _; to view: cf. F. météoroscope. See Meteor.]
(Astron.)
(a)
An astrolabe; a planisphere.
[Obs.]
(b)
An instrument for measuring the position, length, and direction, of the apparent path of a shooting star.


word: -meter
definition:
-meter

-me"ter
(?)
[L. metrum measure, or the allied Gr. _;. See Meter rhythm.]
A suffix denoting that by which anything is measured; as, barometer, chronometer, dynamometer.


word: Meter
definition:
Meter

Me"ter
(?)
n.
[From Mete to measure.]
1.
One who, or that which, metes or measures. See Coal-meter.

2.
An instrument for measuring, and usually for recording automatically, the quantity measured.

Dry meter, a gas meter having measuring chambers, with flexible walls, which expand and contract like bellows and measure the gas by filling and emptying. -- Wet meter, a gas meter in which the revolution of a chambered drum in water measures the gas passing through it.


word: Meter₂
definition:
Meter

Me"ter
n.
A line above or below a hanging net, to which the net is attached in order to strengthen it.


word: Metre
definition:
Metre

Meter

{ Me"ter, Me"tre  }
(?)
n.
[OE. metre, F. mètre, L. metrum, fr. Gr. _;; akin to Skr. mā to measure. See Mete to measure.]
1.
Rhythmical arrangement of syllables or words into verses, stanzas, strophes, etc.; poetical measure, depending on number, quantity, and accent of syllables; rhythm; measure; verse; also, any specific rhythmical arrangements; as, the Horatian meters; a dactylic meter.

The only strict antithesis to prose is meter.
Wordsworth.

2.
A poem.
[Obs.]
Robynson (More's Utopia).

3.
A measure of length, equal to 39.37 English inches, the standard of linear measure in the metric system of weights and measures. It was intended to be, and is very nearly, the ten millionth part of the distance from the equator to the north pole, as ascertained by actual measurement of an arc of a meridian. See Metric system, under Metric.

Common meter (Hymnol.), four iambic verses, or lines, making a stanza, the first and third having each four feet, and the second and fourth each three feet; -- usually indicated by the initials C. M. -- Long meter (Hymnol.), iambic verses or lines of four feet each, four verses usually making a stanza; -- commonly indicated by the initials L. M. -- Short meter (Hymnol.), iambic verses or lines, the first, second, and fourth having each three feet, and the third four feet.  The stanza usually consists of four lines, but is sometimes doubled.  Short meter is indicated by the initials S. M.


word: Metergram
definition:
Metergram

Me"ter*gram`
(?)
n.
(Mech.)
A measure of energy or work done; the power exerted in raising one gram through the distance of one meter against gravitation; 100 gram-centimeters.


word: Meteyard
definition:
Meteyard

Mete"yard`
(?)
n.
[AS. metgeard. See Mete to measure, and Yard stick.]
A yard, staff, or rod, used as a measure.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Methaemoglobin
definition:
Methaemoglobin

Met`haem*o*glo"bin
(? or ?)
n.
[Pref. met- + haemoglobin.]
(Physiol. Chem.)
A stable crystalline compound obtained by the decomposition of hemoglobin.  It is found in old blood stains.


word: methadone
definition:
methadone

methadon

methadon, methadone
n.
a narcotic drug similar to morphine but less habit-forming; used in treating heroin addiction.

Syn. -- methadone hydrochloride.


word: Methal
definition:
Methal

Meth"al
(?)
n.
[Myristic + ether + alcohol.]
(Chem.)
A white waxy substance, found in small quantities in spermaceti as an ethereal salt of several fatty acids, and regarded as an alcohol of the methane series.


word: Methane
definition:
Methane

Meth"ane
(?)
n.
[See Methal.]
(Chem.)
A light, colorless, gaseous, inflammable hydrocarbon, CH4; marsh gas.  It is the simplest of the aliphatic hydrocarbons.  See Marsh gas, under Gas.

Methane series (Chem.), a series of saturated hydrocarbons, of which methane is the first member and type, and (because of their general chemical inertness and indifference) called also the paraffin (little affinity) series. The lightest members are gases, as methane, ethane; intermediate members are liquids, as hexane, heptane, etc. (found in benzine, kerosene, etc.); while the highest members are white, waxy, or fatty solids, as paraffin proper.


word: methanogen
definition:
methanogen

methanogen
n.
A type of archaebacteria found in anaerobic environments such as animal intestinal tracts or sediments or sewage, and capable of producing methane; a source of natural gas.


word: methanol
definition:
methanol

methanol
n.
(Chem.)
The simplest alcohol of the paraffin series, CH3.OH; methyl alcohol.  Called also wood alcohol.  It is used as an antifreeze solvent, as a fuel, and as a denaturant for ethyl alcohol.

Syn. -- methyl alcohol, wood alcohol, wood spirit.


word: Methanometer
definition:
Methanometer

Meth`a*nom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Methane + -meter.]
An instrument, resembling a eudiometer, to detect the presence and amount of methane, as in coal mines.


word: Metheglin
definition:
Metheglin

Me*theg"lin
(?)
n.
[W. meddyglyn; medd mead + llyn liquor, juice. See Mead a drink.]
A fermented beverage made of honey and water; mead.
Gay.


word: Methenyl
definition:
Methenyl

Meth"e*nyl
(?)
n.
[Methene + -yl.]
(Chem.)
The hypothetical hydrocarbon radical CH, regarded as an essential residue of certain organic compounds.


word: Methide
definition:
Methide

Meth"ide
(? or ?)
n.
[See Methyl.]
(Chem.)
A binary compound of methyl with some element; as, aluminium methide, Al2(CH3)6.


word: Methinks
definition:
Methinks

Me*thinks"
(?)
v. impers.
[imp. Methought (?).]
[AS. þyncan to seem, mē þynceð, mē þūhte, OE. me thinketh, me thoughte; akin to G. dünken to seem, denken to think, and E. think. See Me, and Think.]
It seems to me; I think. See Me.
[R., except in poetry.]

In all ages poets have been had in special reputation, and, methinks, not without great cause.
Spenser.


word: Methionic
definition:
Methionic

Meth`i*on"ic
(?)
a.
[Methyl + thionic.]
(Chem.)
Of, pertaining to, or designating, a sulphonic (thionic) acid derivative of methane, obtained as a stable white crystalline substance, CH2.(SO3H)2, which forms well defined salts.


word: Method
definition:
Method

Meth"od
(?)
n.
[F. méthode, L. methodus, fr. Gr. meqodos method, investigation following after; meta` after + "odo`s way.]
1.
An orderly procedure or process; regular manner of doing anything; hence, manner; way; mode; as, a method of teaching languages; a method of improving the mind.
Addison.

2.
Orderly arrangement, elucidation, development, or classification; clear and lucid exhibition; systematic arrangement peculiar to an individual.

Though this be madness, yet there's method in it.
Shak.

All method is a rational progress, a progress toward an end.
Sir W. Hamilton.

3.
(Nat. Hist.)
Classification; a mode or system of classifying natural objects according to certain common characteristics; as, the method of Theophrastus; the method of Ray; the Linnaean method.

4.
A technique used in acting in which the actor tries to identify with the individual personality of the specific character being portrayed, so as to provide a realistic rendering of the character's role.  Also called the Method, method acting, the Stanislavsky Method or Stanislavsky System.


word: Methodical
definition:
Methodical

Methodic

{ Me*thod"ic (?), Me*thod"ic*al (?), }
a.
[L. methodicus, Gr. _;: cf. F. méthodique.]
1.
Arranged with regard to method; disposed in a suitable manner, or in a manner to illustrate a subject, or to facilitate practical observation; well-ordered; as, the methodical arrangement of arguments; a methodical treatise.
[wns=2]
Methodical
Addison.

2.
Proceeding with regard to method; characterized by method or orderliness; systematic; as, a methodical investigation.
[wns=1]
methodic
Harris.

3.
Of or pertaining to the ancient school of physicians called methodists.
Johnson.


word: Methodism
definition:
Methodism

Meth"o*dism
(?)
n.
(Eccl.)
The system of doctrines, polity, and worship, of the sect called Methodists.
Bp. Warburton.


word: Methodist
definition:
Methodist

Meth"o*dist
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. méthodiste. See Method.]
1.
One who observes method.
[Obs.]

2.
One of an ancient school of physicians who rejected observation and founded their practice on reasoning and theory.
Sir W. Hamilton.

3.
(Theol.)
One of a sect of Christians, the outgrowth of a small association called the “Holy Club,” formed at Oxford University, a. d. 1729, of which the most conspicuous members were John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley; -- originally so called from the methodical strictness of members of the club in all religious duties.

4.
A person of strict piety; one who lives in the exact observance of religious duties; -- sometimes so called in contempt or ridicule.


word: Methodist₂
definition:
Methodist

Meth"o*dist
a.
Of or pertaining to the sect of Methodists; as, Methodist hymns; a Methodist elder.


word: Methodistical
definition:
Methodistical

Methodistic

{ Meth`o*dis"tic (?), Meth`o*dis"tic*al (?), }
a.
Of or pertaining to methodists, or to the Methodists.
Meth`o*dis"tic*al*ly, adv.


word: Methodization
definition:
Methodization

Meth`od*i*za"tion
(?)
n.
The act or process of methodizing, or the state of being methodized.


word: Methodize
definition:
Methodize

Meth"od*ize
(?)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Methodized (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Methodizing (?).]
To reduce to method; to dispose in due order; to arrange in a convenient manner; as, to methodize one's work or thoughts.
Spectator.


word: Methodology
definition:
Methodology

Meth`od*ol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; method + -logy.]
The science of method or arrangement; a treatise on method.
Coleridge.


word: Methol
definition:
Methol

Meth"ol
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; wine + -ol.]
(Chem.)
An earlier  technical name of methyl alcohol or wood spirit, now called methanol; also, by extension, the class name of any of the series of alcohols of the methane series of which methol proper is the type. See Methyl alcohol, under Methyl.


word: Methoxyl
definition:
Methoxyl

Meth*ox"yl
(?)
n.
[Methyl + hydroxyl.]
(Chem.)
A hypothetical radical, CH3O, analogous to hydroxyl.


word: Methyl
definition:
Methyl

Meth"yl
(?)
n.
[See Methylene.]
(Chem.)
A univalent hydrocarbon radical, CH3-, not existing alone but regarded as an essential residue of methane, and appearing as a component part of many derivatives; as, methyl alcohol, methyl ether, methyl amine, etc.
[Formerly written also methule, methyle, etc.]

Methyl alcohol (Chem.), a light, volatile, inflammable liquid, CH3.OH, obtained by the distillation of wood, and hence called wood alcohol or wood spirit; tecnically referred to as methanol; -- called also methol, carbinol, etc. -- Methyl amine (Chem.), a colorless, inflammable, alkaline gas, CH3.NH2, having an ammoniacal, fishy odor.  It is produced artificially, and also occurs naturally in herring brine and other fishy products.  It is regarded as ammonia in which a third of its hydrogen is replaced by methyl, and is a type of the class of substituted ammonias. -- Methyl ether (Chem.), a light, volatile ether CH3.O.CH3, obtained by the etherification of methyl alcohol; -- called also methyl oxide or dimethyl ether. -- Methyl green. (Chem.) See under Green, n. -- Methyl orange. (Chem.) See Helianthin. -- Methyl violet (Chem.), an artificial dye, consisting of certain methyl halogen derivatives of rosaniline.


word: Methylal
definition:
Methylal

Meth"yl*al
(?)
n.
[Methylene + alcohol.]
(Chem.)
A light, volatile liquid, H2C(OCH3)2, regarded as a complex ether, and having a pleasant ethereal odor. It is obtained by the partial oxidation of methyl alcohol.  Called also formal.


word: Methylate
definition:
Methylate

Meth"yl*ate
(?)
n.
[Methyl + alcoholate.]
(Chem.)
An alcoholate of methyl alcohol in which the hydroxyl hydrogen is replaced by a metal, after the analogy of a hydrate; as, sodium methylate, CH3ONa.


word: Methylated
definition:
Methylated

Meth"yl*a`ted
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Impregnated with, or containing, methyl alcohol or wood spirit; as, methylated spirits.


word: Methylene
definition:
Methylene

Meth"yl*ene
(?)
n.
[F. méthylène, from Gr. _; wine + _; wood; -- a word coined to correspond to the name wood spirit.]
(Chem.)
A divalent hydrocarbon radical, -CH2-, not known in the free state, but regarded as an essential residue and component of certain derivatives of methane; as, methylene bromide, CH2Br2; -- formerly called also methene.

Methylene blue (Chem.), an artificial dyestuff consisting of a complex sulphur derivative of diphenyl amine; -- called also pure blue.


word: methylenedioxymethamphetamine
definition:
methylenedioxymethamphetamine

methylenedioxymethamphetamine
n.
a drug designed to have the effects of amphetamines but to avoid the drug laws, but now a controlled substance.  Called also MDMA.

Syn. -- MDMA, Adam, ecstasy.


word: Methylic
definition:
Methylic

Me*thyl"ic
(?)
a.
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, derived from, or containing, methyl; specifically, designating methyl alcohol. See under Methyl.


word: Methysticin
definition:
Methysticin

Me*thys"ti*cin
(?)
n.
(Chem.)
A white, silky, crystalline substance extracted from the thick rootstock of a species of pepper (Piper methysticum) of the South Sea Islands; -- called also kanakin.


word: Metic
definition:
Metic

Met"ic
(? or ?; 277)
n.
[Gr. _;, prop., changing one's abode; _;, indicating change + _; house, abode: cf. L. metoecus, F. métèque.]
(Gr. Antiq.)
A sojourner; an immigrant; an alien resident in a Grecian city, but not a citizen.
Mitford.

The whole force of Athens, metics as well as citizens, and all the strangers who were then in the city.
Jowett (Thucyd. ).


word: meticulosity
definition:
meticulosity

meticulosity
n.
strict attention to minute details; the quality of being meticulous.

Syn. -- meticulousness, punctiliousness, scrupulousness.


word: Meticulous
definition:
Meticulous

Me*tic"u*lous
(?)
a.
[L. meticulosus, fr. metus fear: cf. F. méticuleux.]
Timid; fearful.
[archaic]

2.
Taking great care to get every detail correct; working thoroughly and with precision; as, meticulous workmanship.


word: Metier
definition:
Metier

Mé`tier"
(?)
n.
[F.]
1.
Calling; vocation; business; trade.
Not only is it the business of no one to preach the truth but it is the métier of many to conceal it.
A. R. Colquhoun.

2.
the field or activity at which one excels; one's forte.


word: Metisse
definition:
Metisse

Metis

{ &VerbarMé`tis" (?), n. m. &VerbarMé`tisse" (?), n. f. }
[F.; akin to Sp. mestizo. See Mestizo.]
1.
The offspring of a white person and an American Indian.

2.
The offspring of a white person and a quadroon; an octoroon.
[Local, U. S.]
Bartlett.


word: Metoche
definition:
Metoche

Met"o*che
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; a sharing, fr. _; to share in; _; with + _; to have.]
(Arch.)
(a)
The space between two dentils.
(b)
The space between two triglyphs.


word: Metol
definition:
Metol

Me"tol
(?)
n.
[G.; trade name, fr. meta- + kresol cresol.]
A whitish soluble powder used as a developer in photography.  Chemically, it is the sulphate of methyl-p-amino-m-cresol.


word: Metonic
definition:
Metonic

Me*ton"ic
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. métonique.]
Pertaining to, or discovered by, Meton, the Athenian.

Metonic year or Metonic cycle. (Astron.) See under Cycle.


word: Metonymical
definition:
Metonymical

Metonymic

{ Met`o*nym"ic (?), Met`o*nym"ic*al (?), }
a.
[See Metonymy.]
Used by way of metonymy; using the name of one thing for that of another with which it is closely associated.
Met`o*nym"ic*al*ly, adv.


word: Metonymy
definition:
Metonymy

Me*ton"y*my
(me̝*t&obreve_;n"ĭ*m&ybreve_;; 277)
n.
[L. metonymia, Gr. metwnymi`a; meta`, indicating change + 'o`nyma , for 'o`noma a name: cf. F. métonymie. See Name.]
(Rhet.)
A trope in which one word is put for another that suggests it; as, we say, a man keeps a good table instead of good provisions; we read Virgil, that is, his poems; a man has a warm heart, that is, warm affections; a city dweller has no wheels, that is, no automobile.


word: Metope
definition:
Metope

Met"o*pe
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _;; meta` with, between + _; opening, hole, the hole in the frieze between the beam ends.]
1.
(Arch.)
The space between two triglyphs of the Doric frieze, which, among the ancients, was often adorned with carved work. See Illust. of Entablature.

2.
(Zool.)
The face of a crab.

&hand_; In the Parthenon, groups of centaurs and heroes in high relief occupy the metopes.


word: Metopic
definition:
Metopic

Me*top"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _; the forehead.]
(Anat.)
Of or pertaining to the forehead or frontal bones; frontal; as, the metopic suture.


word: Metopomancy
definition:
Metopomancy

Met"o*po*man`cy
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; the forehead + -mancy.]
Fortune telling by physiognomy.
[R.]
Urquhart.


word: Metoposcopical
definition:
Metoposcopical

Metoposcopic

{ Met`o*po*scop"ic (?), Met`o*po*scop"ic*al (?), }
a.
Of or relating to metoposcopy.


word: Metoposcopy
definition:
Metoposcopy

Met`o*pos"co*py
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; observing the forehead; _; the forehead + _; to view: cf. F. métoposcopie.]
The study of physiognomy; the art of discovering the character of persons by their features, or the lines of the face.


word: Metosteon
definition:
Metosteon

Me*tos"te*on
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; after + _; bone.]
(Anat.)
The postero-lateral ossification in the sternum of birds; also, the part resulting from such ossification.


word: Metric
definition:
Metric

Met"ric
(mĕt"rĭk)
a.
[L. metricus, Gr. _;: cf. F. métrique. See Meter rhythm.]
1.
Relating to measurement; involving, or proceeding by, measurement.

2.
Of or pertaining to the meter as a standard of measurement; of or pertaining to the decimal system of measurement of which a meter is the unit; as, the metric system; a metric measurement.

Metric analysis (Chem.), analysis by volume; volumetric analysis. -- Metric system, See metric system in the vocabulary.


word: Metrical
definition:
Metrical

Met"ric*al
(?)
a.
1.
Of or pertaining to the meter; arranged in meter; consisting of verses; as, metrical compositions.

2.
Of or pertaining to measurement; as, the inch, foot, yard, etc., are metrical terms; esp., of or pertaining to the metric system.


word: metrication
definition:
metrication

met`ri*ca"tion
(mĕt`rĭ*kā"shŭn)
n.
The act or process of converting the standard system of units of a country to those of the metric system; metrification; as, Great Britain has completed its metrification, but the United States still resists complete change.


word: Metric system
definition:
Metric system

Met"ric sys"tem
(?)
n.
A system of weights and measures originating in France, the use of which is required by law in many countries, and permitted in many others, including the United States; the system is also called by its French name, Le Système International de Unités (abbreviated SI).  The principal unit of length is the meter (see Meter).  From this are formed the are, the liter, the stere, the gram, etc. These units, and others derived from them, are divided decimally, and larger units are formed from multiples by 10, 100, 1,000, and 10,000.  The successive multiplies are designated by the prefixes, deka- (formerly deca-), hecto-, kilo-, and myria- (seldom used); successive parts by deci-, centi-, and milli-.  The prefixes mega- and micro- are used to denote a multiple by one million, and the millionth part, respectively; giga- and nano- denote multiples of one billion (1,000,000,000) and one billionth, respectively.  The prefix for one trillion (1012) is tera, and for one trillionth (10-12) is pico;  for one quintillion (1015) peta, and for (10-15) (one quintillionth) femto;  for (10-18) atto.  See the words formed with these prefixes in the Vocabulary. For metric tables, see p. 1682.


word: Metrification
definition:
Metrification

Met`ri*fi*ca"tion
(?)
n.
1.
Composition in metrical form; versification.
[R.]
Tennyson.

2.
The act or process of converting the standard system of units of a country to those of the metric system; metrication.


word: Metrify
definition:
Metrify

Met"ri*fy
(?)
v. i.
[L. metrum meter + -fy: cf. F. métrifier.]
To make verse.
[R.]
Skelton.


word: Metrist
definition:
Metrist

Me"trist
(?)
n.
A maker of verses.
Bale.

Spenser was no mere metrist, but a great composer.
Lowell.


word: Metrograph
definition:
Metrograph

Met"ro*graph
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; measure + -graph.]
An instrument attached to a locomotive for recording its speed and the number and duration of its stops.


word: Metrology
definition:
Metrology

Me*trol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; measure + -métrologie.]
The science of, or a system of, weights and measures; also, a treatise on the subject.


word: Metrometer
definition:
Metrometer

Me*trom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; womb + -meter.]
(Med.)
An instrument for measuring the size of the womb.
Knight.


word: Metronome
definition:
Metronome

Met"ro*nome
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; measure + _; distribute, assign: cf. F. métronome, It. metronomo.]
An instrument consisting of a short pendulum with a sliding weight.  It is set in motion by clockwork, and serves to measure time in music.


word: Metronymic
definition:
Metronymic

Met`ro*nym"ic
(?)
a.
[Gr. _;; _; mother + _;, for _; name.]
Derived from the name of one's mother, or other female ancestor; as, a metronymic name or appellation.
n. A metronymic appellation.


word: Metropolis
definition:
Metropolis

Me*trop"o*lis
(?)
n.
[L. metropolis, Gr. _;, prop., the mother city (in relation to colonies); _; mother + _; city. See Mother, and Police.]

1.
The mother city; the chief city of a kingdom, state, or country.

[Edinburgh] gray metropolis of the North.
Tennyson.

2.
(Eccl.)
The seat, or see, of the metropolitan, or highest church dignitary.

The great metropolis and see of Rome.
Shak.

3.
Any large city.


word: Metropolitan
definition:
Metropolitan

Met`ro*pol"i*tan
(?; 277)
a.
[L. metropolitanus: cf. F. métropolitain.]
1.
Of or pertaining to the capital or principal city of a country; as, metropolitan luxury.

2.
(Eccl.)
Of, pertaining to, or designating, a metropolitan or the presiding bishop of a country or province, his office, or his dignity; as, metropolitan authority.
metropolitan
Sir T. More.


word: Metropolitan₂
definition:
Metropolitan

Met`ro*pol"i*tan
n.
[LL. metropolitanus.]
1.
The superior or presiding bishop of a country or province.

2.
(Lat. Church.)
An archbishop.

3.
(Gr. Church)
A bishop whose see is a civil metropolis.  His rank is intermediate between that of an archbishop and a patriarch; as, the metropolitan of Constantinople.
Hook.


word: Metropolitical
definition:
Metropolitical

Met`ro*po*lit"ic*al
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to a metropolis; being a metropolis; metropolitan; as, the metropolitical chair.
Bp. Hall.


word: Metrorrhagia
definition:
Metrorrhagia

Met`ror*rha"gi*a
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; womb + _; to break.]
(Med.)
Profuse bleeding from the womb, esp. such as does not occur at the menstrual period.


word: Metroscope
definition:
Metroscope

Met"ro*scope
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; womb + -scope.]
A modification of the stethoscope, for directly auscultating the uterus from the vagina.


word: Metrosideros
definition:
Metrosideros

Met`ro*si*de"ros
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; heart of a tree + _; iron.]
(Bot.)
A myrtaceous genus of trees or shrubs, found in Australia and the South Sea Islands, and having very hard wood.  Metrosideros vera is the true ironwood.


word: Metrotome
definition:
Metrotome

Met"ro*tome
(?)
n.
[See Metrotomy.]
(Surg.)
An instrument for cutting or scarifying the uterus or the neck of the uterus.


word: Metrotomy
definition:
Metrotomy

Me*trot"o*my
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; womb + _; to cut: cf. F. métrotomie.]
(Surg.)
The operation of cutting into the uterus; hysterotomy; the Caesarean section.


word: -metry
definition:
-metry

-me*try
(?)
[See -meter.]
A suffix denoting the art, process, or science, of measuring; as, acidimetry, bathymetry, chlorometry, chronometry.


word: Mettle
definition:
Mettle

Met"tle
(?)
n.
[E. metal, used in a tropical sense in allusion to the temper of the metal of a sword blade. See Metal.]
Substance or quality of temperament; spirit, esp. as regards honor, courage, fortitude, ardor, etc.; disposition; -- usually in a good sense; as, to test a person's mettle.

A certain critical hour which shall . . . try what mettle his heart is made of.
South.

Gentlemen of brave mettle.
Shak.

The winged courser, like a generous horse,
Shows most true mettle when you check his course.
Pope.

To put one one's mettle, to cause or incite one to use one's best efforts.


word: Mettlesome
definition:
Mettlesome

Met"tle*some
(?)
a.
Full of spirit; possessing constitutional ardor; fiery; as, a mettlesome horse.


word: Meum
definition:
Meum

Me"um
(?)
n.
[L., neut. of meus mine.]
Lit., mine; that which is mine; -- used in the phrase meum et tuum, or meum and tuum; as, to confound meum and tuum, to fail to distinguish one's own property from that of others; to be dishonest.
Ancestors . . . generally esteemed more renowned for ancient family and high courage than for accurately regarding the trifling distinction of meum and tuum.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Meuse
definition:
Meuse

Meuse
prop. n.
1.
A European river, flowing into the North Sea.

Syn. -- Meuse River.

2.
An American operation in World War I (1918); American troops under Pershing drove back the German armies which were saved only by the Armistice on November 11.

Syn. -- Meuse River, Argonne, Argonne Forest, Meuse-Argonne, Meuse-Argonne operation.


word: Meuse-Argonne
definition:
Meuse-Argonne

Meuse-Argonne
prop. n.
an American operation in World War I (1918); American troops under Pershing drove back the German armies which were saved only by the Armistice on November 11.

Syn. -- Meuse, Meuse River, Argonne, Argonne Forest, Meuse-Argonne operation.


word: Mew
definition:
Mew

Mew
(?)
n.
[AS. m_;w, akin to D. meeuw, G. möwe, OHG. m_;h, Icel. mār.]
(Zool.)
A gull, esp. the common British species (Larus canus); called also sea mew, maa, mar, mow, and cobb.


word: Mew₂
definition:
Mew

Mew
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mewed; p. pr. & vb. n. Mewing.]
[OE. muen, F. muer, fr. L. mutare to change, fr. movere to move. See Move, and cf. Mew a cage, Molt.]
To shed or cast; to change; to molt; as, the hawk mewed his feathers.

Nine times the moon had mewed her horns.
Dryden.


word: Mew₃
definition:
Mew

Mew
v. i.
To cast the feathers; to molt; hence, to change; to put on a new appearance.

Now everything doth mew,
And shifts his rustic winter robe.
Turbervile.


word: Mew₄
definition:
Mew

Mew
n.
[OE. mue, F. mue change of feathers, scales, skin, the time or place when the change occurs, fr. muer to molt, mew, L. mutare to change. See 2d Mew.]

1.
A cage for hawks while mewing; a coop for fattening fowls; hence, any inclosure; a place of confinement or shelter; -- in the latter sense usually in the plural.

Full many a fat partrich had he in mewe.
Chaucer.

Forthcoming from her darksome mew.
Spenser.

Violets in their secret mews.
Wordsworth.

2.
A stable or range of stables for horses; -- compound used in the plural, and so called from the royal stables in London, built on the site of the king's mews for hawks.


word: Mew₅
definition:
Mew

Mew
v. t.
[From Mew a cage.]
To shut up; to inclose; to confine, as in a cage or other inclosure.

More pity that the eagle should be mewed.
Shak.

Close mewed in their sedans, for fear of air.
Dryden.


word: Mew₆
definition:
Mew

Mew
v. i.
[Of imitative origin; cf. G. miauen.]
To cry as a cat.
[Written also meaw, meow.]
Shak.


word: Mewl
definition:
Mewl

Mewl
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Mewled (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mewling.]
[Cf. F. miauler to mew, E. mew to cry as a cat.  Cf. Miaul.]
To cry, as a young child; to squall.
[Written also meawl.]
Shak.


word: Mews
definition:
Mews

Mews
(?)
n. sing. & pl.
[Prop. pl. of mew. See Mew a cage.]
An alley where there are stables; a narrow passage; a confined place.
[Eng.]

Mr. Turveydrop's great room . . . was built out into a mews at the back.
Dickens.


word: Mexican
definition:
Mexican

Mex"i*can
(?)
prop. a.
Of or pertaining to Mexico or its people.
n. A native or inhabitant of Mexico.

Mexican poppy prop. n. (Bot.), a tropical American herb of the Poppy family (Argemone Mexicana) with much the look of a thistle, but having large yellow or white blossoms. -- Mexican tea prop. n. (Bot.), an aromatic kind of pigweed from tropical America (Chenopodium ambrosioides).


word: Mexicanize
definition:
Mexicanize

Mex"i*can*ize
(?)
prop. v. t.
To cause to be like the Mexicans, or their country.
At one time this word referred to frequent revolutions of government, considered characteristic of Mexican politics.


word: Mezereon
definition:
Mezereon

Me*ze"re*on
(?)
n.
[F. mézéréon, Per. māzriyūn.]
(Bot.)
A small European shrub (Daphne Mezereum), whose acrid bark is used in medicine.


word: Mezuzoth
definition:
Mezuzoth

Mezuzah

Mezuza

Me*zu"za, Me*zu"zah, Mez"u*zoth
(?)
n.
[Heb. mĕzūz&omacrth, pl. of mĕzūzāh doorpost.]
A piece of parchment bearing the Decalogue and attached to the doorpost; -- in use among orthodox Hebrews.  The term is also used to refer to the small case containing this scroll, together with the biblical inscription inside.  The text is usually taken from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21.


word: Mezza majolica
definition:
Mezza majolica

Mez"za ma*jol"i*ca
(?)
[It. See Mezzo; Majolica.]
(Ceramics)
Italian pottery of the epoch and general character of majolica, but less brilliantly decorated, esp. such pottery without tin enamel, but painted and glazed.


word: Mezzanine
definition:
Mezzanine

Mez"za*nine
(?)
n.
[F. mezzanine, It. mezzanino, fr. mezzano middle, fr. mezzo middle, half. See Mezzo.]
1.
(Arch.)
(a)
Same as Entresol.
(b)
A partial story which is not on the same level with the story of the main part of the edifice, as of a back building, where the floors are on a level with landings of the staircase of the main house.

2.
A flooring laid over a floor to bring it up to some height or level.

3.

mezzanine floor
(Theat.)
A floor under the stage, from which various contrivances, as traps, are worked.

4.
The lowest balcony in a theater, or the forward part of the first balcony.


word: Mezza voce
definition:
Mezza voce

Mez"za vo"ce
(?)
[It., fr. mezzo, fem. mezza middle, half + voce voice, L. vox.]
(Mus.)
With a medium fullness of sound.


word: Mezzo-rilievo
definition:
Mezzo-rilievo

Mez"zo-ri*lie"vo
(?)
n.
[It.]
(a)
A middle degree of relief in figures, between high and low relief.
(b)
Sculpture in this kind of relief. See under Alto-rilievo.


word: Mezzo-soprano
definition:
Mezzo-soprano

Mez"zo-so*pra"no
(?)
a.
(Mus.)
Having a medium compass between the soprano and contralto; -- said of the voice of a female singer.
n. (a) A mezzo-soprano voice. (b) A person having such a voice.


word: Mezzotint
definition:
Mezzotint

Mez"zo*tint
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. mezzo-tinto.]
A manner of engraving on copper or steel by drawing upon a surface previously roughened, and then removing the roughness in places by scraping, burnishing, etc., so as to produce the requisite light and shade. Also, an engraving so produced.


word: Mezzotinto
definition:
Mezzotinto

Mez`zo*tin"to
(?)
n.
[It. mezzo half + tinto tinted, p. p. of tingere to dye, color, tinge, L. tingere. See Mezzo.]
Mezzotint.


word: Mezzotinto₂
definition:
Mezzotinto

Mez`zo*tin"to
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mezzotintoed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mezzotintoing (?).]
To engrave in mezzotint; to represent by mezzotint.


word: Mi
definition:
Mi

Mi
(?)
n.
[It.]
(Mus.)
A syllable applied to the third tone of the scale of C, i. e., to E, in European solmization, but to the third tone of any scale in the American system.


word: Miamis
definition:
Miamis

Mi*a"mis
(?)
n. pl.
sing. Miami (_;)
(Ethnol.)
A tribe of Indians that formerly occupied the country between the Wabash and Maumee rivers.


word: Miargyrite
definition:
Miargyrite

Mi*ar"gy*rite
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; less + _; silver. So called because it contains less silver than some kindred ore.]
(Min.)
A mineral of an iron-black color, and very sectile, consisting principally of sulphur, antimony, and silver.


word: Miascite
definition:
Miascite

Mi*asc"ite
(?)
n.
[Named from Miask, in the Ural Mountains.]
(Min.)
A granitoid rock containing feldspar, biotite, elaeolite, and sodalite.


word: Miasma
definition:
Miasma

Mi*as"ma
(?)
n.
pl. Miasmata (#).
[NL., fr. Gr. _; defilement, fr. _; to pollute.]
Infectious particles or germs floating in the air; air made noxious by the presence of such particles or germs; noxious effluvia; malaria.


word: Miasmatical
definition:
Miasmatical

Miasmatic

{ Mi`as*mat"ic (?), Mi`as*mat"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. miasmatique.]
Containing, or relating to, miasma; caused by miasma; as, miasmatic diseases.


word: Miasmology
definition:
Miasmology

Mi`as*mol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Miasma + -logy.]
That department of medical science which treats of miasma.


word: Miaul
definition:
Miaul

Mi*aul"
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Miauled (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Miauling.]
[Cf. F. miauler, of imitative origin, and E. mew.  Cf. Mewl.]
To cry as a cat; to mew; to caterwaul.
Sir W. Scott.


word: Mica
definition:
Mica

Mi"ca
(?)
n.
[L. mica crumb, grain, particle; cf. F. mica.]
(Min.)
The name of a group of minerals characterized by highly perfect cleavage, so that they readily separate into very thin leaves, more or less elastic.  They differ widely in composition, and vary in color from pale brown or yellow to green or black.  The transparent forms are used in lanterns, the doors of stoves, etc., being popularly called isinglass.  Formerly called also cat-silver, and glimmer.

&hand_; The important species of the mica group are: muscovite, common or potash mica, pale brown or green, often silvery, including damourite (also called hydromica and muscovy glass); biotite, iron-magnesia mica, dark brown, green, or black; lepidomelane, iron, mica, black; phlogopite, magnesia mica, colorless, yellow, brown; lepidolite, lithia mica, rose-red, lilac.
[1913 Webster]
Mica (usually muscovite, also biotite) is an essential constituent of granite, gneiss, and mica slate; biotite is common in many eruptive rocks; phlogopite in crystalline limestone and serpentine.

Mica diorite (Min.), an eruptive rock allied to diorite but containing mica (biotite) instead of hornblende. -- Mica powder, a kind of dynamite containing fine scales of mica. -- Mica schist, Mica slate (Geol.), a schistose rock, consisting of mica and quartz with, usually, some feldspar.


word: Micaceo-calcareous
definition:
Micaceo-calcareous

Mi*ca`ce*o-cal*ca"re*ous
(?)
a.
(Geol.)
Partaking of the nature of, or consisting of, mica and lime; -- applied to a mica schist containing carbonate of lime.


word: Micaceous
definition:
Micaceous

Mi*ca"ceous
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. micacé.]
Pertaining to, or containing, mica; splitting into laminae or leaves like mica.


word: Micella
definition:
Micella

Mi*cel"la
(?)
n.
pl. Micellae (#).
[NL., dim. of L. mica a morsel, grain.]
(Biol.)
A theoretical aggregation of molecules constituting a structural particle of protoplasm, capable of increase or diminution without change in chemical nature.


word: Miche
definition:
Miche

Mich

{ Mich, Miche  }
(?)
v. i.
[OE. michen; cf. OE. muchier, mucier, to conceal, F. musser, and OHG. mūhhen to waylay.  Cf. Micher, Curmudgeon, Muset.]
To lie hid; to skulk; to act, or carry one's self, sneakingly.
[Obs. or Colloq.]
[Written also meach and meech.]
Spenser.


word: Michaelmas
definition:
Michaelmas

Mich"ael*mas
(?)
n.
[Michael + mass religious service; OE. Mighelmesse.]
The feast of the archangel Michael, a church festival, celebrated on the  29th of September. Hence, colloquially, autumn.

Michaelmas daisy. (Bot.) See under Daisy.


word: Michelangelo
definition:
Michelangelo

Michelangelo
(mī`kĕl*ăn"je̝*lo̝; It. pron. me̝`kĕl*än"je̝*lo̝)
prop. n.
Michelangelo Buonarroti, renowned Italian painter, sculptor and architect; 1475-1564.


word: Micher
definition:
Micher

Mich"er
(?)
n.
[OE. michare, muchare. See Mich.]
One who skulks, or keeps out of sight; hence, a truant; an idler; a thief, etc.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Mickey
definition:
Mickey

Mick

Mick, Mickey
n.
a person of Irish descent; -- an ethnic slur, offensive and disparaging.

Syn. -- Paddy.


word: Mickle
definition:
Mickle

Mic"kle
(mĭk"k'l)
a.
[OE. mikel, muchel, mochel, mukel, AS. micel, mycel; akin to OS. mikil, OHG. mihil, mihhil, Icel. mikill, mykill, Goth. mikils, L. magnus, Gr. me`gas, gen. mega`loy; cf. Skr. mahat. √103.  Cf. Much, Muckle, Magnitude.]
Much; great.
[Written also muckle and mockle.]
[Old Eng. & Scot.]
mickle
Spenser.


word: Micmacs
definition:
Micmacs

Mic"macs
(?)
n. pl.
sing. Micmac (_;).
(Ethnol.)
A tribe of Indians inhabiting Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
[Written also Mikmaks.]


word: Mico
definition:
Mico

Mi"co
(?)
n.
[Sp. or Pg. mico.]
(Zool.)
A small South American monkey (Mico melanurus), allied to the marmoset. The name was originally applied to an albino variety.


word: Micraster
definition:
Micraster

Mi*cras"ter
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. mikro`s small + _; star.]
(Paleon.)
A genus of sea urchins, similar to Spatangus, abounding in the chalk formation; -- from the starlike disposal of the ambulacral furrows.


word: Micr-
definition:
Micr-

Micro-

{ Mi"cro- (?), Mi"cr-  }
[Gr. mikro`s small.]
A combining form
(a)
Small, little, trivial, slight; as, microcosm, microscope.
(b)
(Metric System, Elec., Mech., etc.)
A millionth part of; as, microfarad, microohm, micrometer.


word: Microampere
definition:
Microampere

Mi`cro*am`père"
(?)
n.
[Micr- + ampère.]
(Elec.)
One of the smaller measures of electrical currents; the millionth part of one ampère.


word: Microanalysis
definition:
Microanalysis

Mi`cro*a*nal"y*sis
(?)
n.
[Micro- + analysis.]
1.
Analysis of the structure of materials from careful observation of photomicrographs.

2.
(Chem.)
Chemical analysis of very small quantities of substances, requiring special apparatus to handle and weigh small amounts of materials.


word: Microbacteria
definition:
Microbacteria

Mi`cro*bac*te"ri*a
(?)
n. pl.
[NL. See Micro-, and Bacterium.]
(Biol.)
In the classification of Cohn, one of the four tribes of Bacteria.

&hand_; In this classification bacteria are divided into four tribes: 1. Spherobacteria, or spherical bacteria, as the genus Micrococcus. 2. Microbacteria, or bacteria in the form of short rods, including the genus Bacterium. 3. Desmobacteria, or bacteria in straight filaments, of which the genus Bacillus is a type. 4. Spirobacteria, or bacteria in spiral filaments, as the genus Vibrio.


word: Microbarograph
definition:
Microbarograph

Mi`cro*bar"o*graph
(?)
n.
[Micro- + barograph.]
An instrument for recording minor fluctuations of atmospheric pressure, as opposed to general barometric surges.


word: Microbion
definition:
Microbion

Microbe

{ Mi"crobe (?), &VerbarMi*cro"bi*on (?), }
n.
[NL. microbion, fr. Gr. _; little + _; life.]
(Biol.)
A microscopic organism; a microorganism; -- particularly applied to bacteria and especially to pathogenic forms; as, the microbe of fowl cholera.


word: microbian
definition:
microbian

microbial

mi*cro"bi*al, mi*cro"bi*an
(?)
a.
(Biol.)
Of, pertaining to, or caused by, microbes; as, microbial growth; the microbian theory; a microbian disease.


word: Microbicide
definition:
Microbicide

Mi*crob"i*cide
(?)
n.
[Microbe + L. caedere to kill.]
(Biol.)
Any agent detrimental to, or destructive of, the life of microbes or bacterial organisms.


word: Microbiology
definition:
Microbiology

Mi`cro*bi*ol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[See Microbe; -logy.]
The branch of biology studying minute organisms, or microbes, such as the bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa.
Mi`cro*bi`o*log"ic*al (#), a. -- Mi`cro*bi*ol"o*gist (#), n.


word: Microcephalous
definition:
Microcephalous

Microcephalic

{ Mi`cro*ce*phal"ic (?), Mi`cro*ceph"a*lous (?), }
a.
[Micro- + cephalic, cephalous.]
(Anat.)
Having a small head; having the cranial cavity small; -- opposed to megacephalic.


word: micro-chemical
definition:
micro-chemical

microchemical

mi`cro*chem"ic*al, mi`cro-chem"ic*al
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to microchemistry; as, a micro-chemical test.


word: micro-chemistry
definition:
micro-chemistry

microchemistry

mi`cro*chem"is*try, mi`cro-chem"is*try
(?)
n.
[Micro- + chemistry.]
The application of chemical tests to minute objects or portions of matter, usually assisted by sensitive instruments; -- distinguished from macro-chemistry.


word: Microcline
definition:
Microcline

Mi"cro*cline
(?)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. _; to incline.]
(Min.)
A mineral of the feldspar group, like orthoclase or common feldspar in composition, but triclinic in form.


word: Micrococcus
definition:
Micrococcus

Mi`cro*coc"cus
(?)
n.
pl. Micrococci (#).
[NL. See Micro-, and Coccus.]
(Biol.)
A genus of Spherobacteria, in the form of very small globular or oval cells, forming, by transverse division, filaments, or chains of cells, or in some cases single organisms shaped like dumb-bells (Diplococcus), all without the power of motion. See Illust. of Ascoccus.

&hand_; Physiologically, micrococci are divided into three groups; chromogenic, characterized by their power of forming pigment; zymogenic, including those associated with definite chemical processes; and pathogenic, those connected with disease.


word: microcomputer
definition:
microcomputer

microcomputer
n.
A small computer based on a microprocessor; in practise, at any given time in the technology of computer development, a microcomputer will be one that is less powerful than a minicomputer.

Syn. -- personal computer, PC.


word: Microcosm
definition:
Microcosm

Mi"cro*cosm
(?)
n.
[F. microcosme, L. microcosmus, fr. Gr. mikro`s small + ko`smos the world.]
1.
A little world; a miniature universe.  Hence (so called by Paracelsus), a man, as a supposed epitome of the exterior universe or great world.  Opposed to macrocosm.
Shak.

2.
A relatively small object or system considered as representative of a larger system of which it is part, exhibiting many features of the complete system.


word: Microcosmical
definition:
Microcosmical

Microcosmic

{ Mi`cro*cos"mic (?), Mi`cro*cos"mic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. microcosmique.]
Of or pertaining to the microcosm.

Microcosmic salt (Chem.), a white crystalline substance obtained by mixing solutions of sodium phosphate and ammonium phosphate, and also called hydric-sodic-ammonic-phosphate.  It is a powerful flux, and is used as a substitute for borax as a blowpipe reagent in testing for the metallic oxides.  Originally obtained by the alchemists from human urine, and called sal microcosmicum.


word: Microcosmography
definition:
Microcosmography

Mi`cro*cos*mog"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[Microcosm + -graphy.]
Description of man as a microcosm.


word: Microcoulomb
definition:
Microcoulomb

Mi`cro*cou`lomb"
(?)
n.
[Micro- + coulomb.]
(Elec.)
A measure of electrical quantity; the millionth part of one coulomb.


word: Microcoustic
definition:
Microcoustic

Mi`cro*cous"tic
(?)
a.
[Micro- + acoustic: cf. F. microcoustique, micracoustique.]
Pertaining, or suited, to the audition of small sounds; fitted to assist hearing.


word: Microcoustic₂
definition:
Microcoustic

Mi`cro*cous"tic
n.
An instrument for making faint sounds audible, as to a partially deaf person.


word: Microcrith
definition:
Microcrith

Mi`cro*crith"
(?)
n.
[Micro- + crith.]
(Chem.)
The weight of the half hydrogen molecule, or of the hydrogen atom, at one time taken as the standard in comparing the atomic weights of the elements; thus, an atom of oxygen weighs sixteen microcriths.  This unit is no longer used, and has been replaced by the Dalton, which is of approximately the same value.  See molecular weight and Crith.
J. P. Cooke.


word: Microcrystalline
definition:
Microcrystalline

Mi`cro*crys"tal*line
(?)
a.
[Micro- + crystalline.]
(Crystallog.)
Crystalline on a fine, or microscopic, scale; consisting of fine crystals; as, the ground mass of certain porphyrics is microcrystalline.


word: Microcyte
definition:
Microcyte

Mi"cro*cyte
(?)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. _; a hollow vessel.]
(Physiol.)
One of the elementary granules found in blood.  They are much smaller than an ordinary corpuscle, and are particularly noticeable in disease, as in anaemia.


word: Microdont
definition:
Microdont

Mic"ro*dont
(?)
a.
[Micr- + Gr. 'odoy`s, 'odo`ntos, a tooth.]
(Anat.)
Having small teeth.


word: Microfilm
definition:
Microfilm

Mic"ro*film
(?)
n.
[Micro- + film.]
a photographic film with one or more very small images of printed or other graphic matter.  Numerous images, corresponding to the contents of a book, newspaper, or journal, are typically produced on one long roll of film, and may be viewed for reading in a special apparatus called a microfilm reader.


word: Microform
definition:
Microform

Mi"cro*form
(?)
n.
[Micro- + form, n.]
(Biol.)
A microscopic form of life; an animal or vegetable organism of microscopic size.


word: Micro-geology
definition:
Micro-geology

Mi`cro-ge*ol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Micro- + geology.]
The part of geology relating to structure and organisms which require to be studied with a microscope.


word: Micrograph
definition:
Micrograph

Mi"cro*graph
(?)
n.
[See Micrography.]
1.
An instrument for executing minute writing or engraving.

2.
a graphic image, such as a photograph or drawing, representing an object as seen with a microscope, usually much enlarged as compared with the original object.  A photograph of a microscopic image is also called a photomicrograph or microphotograph.


word: Micrography
definition:
Micrography

Mi*crog"ra*phy
(?)
n.
[Micro- + -graphy: cf. F. micrographie.]
1.
The description of microscopic objects.

2.
Examination or study by means of the microscope, as of an etched surface of metal to determine its structure.


word: Microlepidoptera
definition:
Microlepidoptera

Mi`cro*lep`i*dop"te*ra
(?)
n. pl.
[NL. See Micro-, and Lepidoptera.]
(Zool.)
A tribe of Lepidoptera, including a vast number of minute species, as the plume moth, clothes moth, etc.


word: Microlestes
definition:
Microlestes

Mi`cro*les"tes
(?)
n.
[NL., from Gr. mikro`s small + _; a robber.]
(Paleon.)
An extinct genus of small Triassic mammals, the oldest yet found in European strata.


word: Microlite
definition:
Microlite

Mi"cro*lite
(?)
n.
[Micro- + -lite.]
(Min.)

1.
A rare mineral of resinous luster and high specific gravity. It is a tantalate of calcium, and occurs in octahedral crystals usually very minute.

2.
(Min.)
A minute inclosed crystal, often observed when minerals or rocks are examined in thin sections under the microscope.


word: Micrological
definition:
Micrological

Micrologic

{ Mi`cro*log"ic (?), Mi`cro*log"ic*al (?), }
a.
Of or pertaining to micrology; very minute; as, micrologic examination.
Mi`cro*log"ic*al*ly, adv.


word: Micrology
definition:
Micrology

Mi*crol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Micro- + -logy.]
1.
That part of science which treats of microscopic objects, or depends on microscopic observation.

2.
Attention to petty items or differences.
W. Taylor.


word: micromercurialism
definition:
micromercurialism

micromercurialism
n.
[micro + mercurialism.  Coined by the chemist A. Stock in 1926.  See mercurialism.]
(1926)
A form of mercury poisoning resulting from long term exposure to low doses of mercury.  The syndrome of micromercurialism involves complex symptoms of stress, fatigue, memory loss, fine tremors, muscular and reflex insufficiency and low blood pressure, caused by accumulation of mercury in the system.  A condition of hyperthermia is accompanied by a series of functional changes under the effects of mercury.  The combined simultaneous effect of toxic action, temperature and galvanic response infers a cycle of disintegration and change.
Work With Mercury (1972)
As proposed by Stock, the syndrome was considered as the union of pathological changes in human body caused by means of low concentrations (as low as 0.01 mg per cubic meter) of mercury vapor over long exposure times (up to 10 years).


word: Micromere
definition:
Micromere

Mi"cro*mere
(?)
n.
[Micro- + -mere.]
(Biol.)
One of the smaller cells, or blastomeres, resulting from the complete segmentation of a telolecithal ovum.


word: micrometeorite
definition:
micrometeorite

micrometeorite
n.
A meteorite so small that it drifts down to Earth without becoming intensely heated in the earth's atmosphere.


word: Micrometer
definition:
Micrometer

Mi*crom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Micro- + -meter: cf. F. micromètre.]
An instrument, used with a telescope or microscope, for measuring minute distances, or the apparent diameters of objects which subtend minute angles.  The measurement given directly is that of the image of the object formed at the focus of the object glass.

Circular micrometer, or Ring micrometer, a metallic ring fixed in the focus of the object glass of a telescope, and used to determine differences of right ascension and declination between stars by observations of the times at which the stars cross the inner or outer periphery of the ring. -- Double image micrometer, a micrometer in which two images of an object are formed in the field, usually by the two halves of a bisected lens which are movable along their line of section by a screw, and distances are determined by the number of screw revolutions necessary to bring the points to be measured into optical coincidence. When the two images are formed by a bisected object glass, it is called a divided-object-glass micrometer, and when the instrument is large and equatorially mounted, it is known as a heliometer. -- Double refraction micrometer, a species of double image micrometer, in which the two images are formed by the double refraction of rock crystal. -- Filar micrometer, or Bifilar micrometer. See under Bifilar. -- Micrometer caliper or Micrometer gauge (Mech.), a caliper or gauge with a micrometer screw, for measuring dimensions with great accuracy. -- Micrometer head, the head of a micrometer screw. -- Micrometer microscope, a compound microscope combined with a filar micrometer, used chiefly for reading and subdividing the divisions of large astronomical and geodetical instruments. -- Micrometer screw, a screw with a graduated head used in some forms of micrometers; turning the head one full revolution advances the position of the tip of the screw only by a little. -- Position micrometer. See under Position. -- Scale micrometer, or Linear micrometer, a minute and very delicately graduated scale of equal parts used in the field of a telescope or microscope, for measuring distances by direct comparison.


word: Micrometrical
definition:
Micrometrical

Micrometric

{ Mi`cro*met"ric (?), Mi`cro*met"ric*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. micrométrique.]
Belonging to micrometry; made by the micrometer.
Mi`cro*met"ric*al*ly, adv.


word: Micromillimeter
definition:
Micromillimeter

Mi`cro*mil"li*me`ter
(?)
n.
[Micro- + millimeter.]
The millionth part of a meter.
The millionth part of a meter is now termed a micron, and the word micromillimeter does not conform to the IS use of the prefix micro-.


word: micron
definition:
micron

mic"ron
(?)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. mikro`s small.]
(Physics)
A measure of length; the thousandth part of one millimeter; the millionth part of a meter.


word: Micronesian
definition:
Micronesian

Mi"cro*ne"sian
(?)
a.
[From Micronesia, fr. Gr. mikro`s small + nh^sos an island.]
Of or pertaining to Micronesia, a collective designation of the islands in the western part of the Pacific Ocean, embracing the Marshall and Gilbert groups, the Ladrones, the Carolines, etc.


word: Micronesians
definition:
Micronesians

Mi`cro*ne"sians
(?)
n. pl.
sing. Micronesian
(Ethnol.)
A dark race inhabiting the Micronesian Islands. They are supposed to be a mixed race, derived from Polynesians and Papuans.


word: Micronometer
definition:
Micronometer

Mi`cro*nom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Micro- + chronometer.]
An instrument for noting minute portions of time.


word: Microorganism
definition:
Microorganism

Mi`cro*or"gan*ism
(?)
n.
[Micro- + organism.]
(Biol.)
Any microscopic form of life; a form of life too small to be seen by the naked eye; -- particularly applied to bacteria, protozoa, yeasts, and similar organisms, esp. such are supposed to cause infectious diseases.


word: Micropantograph
definition:
Micropantograph

Mi`cro*pan"to*graph
(?)
n.
[Micro- + pantograph.]
A kind of pantograph which produces copies microscopically minute.


word: Micropegmatite
definition:
Micropegmatite

Mi`cro*peg"ma*tite
(?)
n.
[Micro- + pegmatite.]
(Min.)
A rock showing under the microscope the structure of a graphic granite (pegmatite).
Mi`cro*peg`ma*tit"ic (#), a.


word: microphone
definition:
microphone

mi"cro*phone
(mī"kro̝*f&omacrn)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. fwnh` sound, voice: cf. F. microphone.]
(Physics)
An instrument for converting sounds into electrical signals, for the purpose of recording or amplifying the sounds.  It produces its effects in various ways, as for example by the changes of intensity in an electric current, occasioned by the variations in the contact resistance of conducting bodies, especially of imperfect conductors, under the action of acoustic vibrations.  Other forms of microphone may use changes in capacitance or other phenomena to transduce the sounds into electrical signals.
The electrical signals produced in a microphone may be transmitted to recording or amplifying equipment through a conducting wire, or by transmission as radio waves.  The latter method is popular for use in small mobile microphones used by performers in plays and other entertainment events, at public meetings, and by broadcast personnel.


word: microphonic
definition:
microphonic

mi`cro*phon"ic
(mī`kro̝*f&obreve_;n"ĭk)
a.
Of or pertaining to a microphone; serving to intensify weak sounds.


word: microphonics
definition:
microphonics

mi`cro*phon"ics
(mī`kro̝*f&obreve_;n"ĭks)
n.
[See Microphone.]
The science which treats of the means of increasing the intensity of low or weak sounds, or of the microphone.


word: microphonous
definition:
microphonous

mi*croph"o*nous
(mi̝*kr&obreve_;f"o̝*nŭs or mĭ*kr&obreve_;f"o̝*nŭs)
a.
Serving to augment the intensity of weak sounds; microcoustic.


word: microphotograph
definition:
microphotograph

mi`cro*pho"to*graph
(mī`kro̝*f&omacr"to̝*grȧf or mĭk`ro̝*f&omacr"to̝*grȧf)
n.
[Micro- + photograph.]

1.
A microscopically small photograph of a picture, writing, printed page, etc.

2.
An enlarged representation of a microscopic object, produced by throwing upon a sensitive plate the magnified image of an object formed by a microscope or other suitable combination of lenses.

&hand_; A picture of this kind is preferably called a photomicrograph.


word: Microphthalmy
definition:
Microphthalmy

Microphthalmia

{ Mi`croph*thal"mi*a (?), Mi`croph*thal"my (?), }
n.
[Micro- + Gr. 'ofqalmo`s eye.]
An unnatural smallness of the eyes, occurring as the result of disease or of imperfect development.


word: Microphyte
definition:
Microphyte

Mi"cro*phyte
(?)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. _; a plant: cf. F. microphyte.]
(Bot.)
A very minute plant, one of certain unicellular algae, such as the germs of various infectious diseases are believed to be.


word: Micropyle
definition:
Micropyle

Mi"cro*pyle
(?)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. _; gate, orifice: cf. F. micropyle.]
(Biol.)
(a)
An opening in the membranes surrounding the ovum, by which nutrition is assisted and the entrance of the spermatozoa permitted.
(b)
An opening in the outer coat of a seed, through which the fecundating pollen enters the ovule.
Mi*crop"y*lar (#), a.


word: Microscopal
definition:
Microscopal

Mi*cros"co*pal
(?)
a.
Pertaining to microscopy, or to the use of the microscope.
Huxley.


word: Microscope
definition:
Microscope

Mi"cro*scope
(?)
n.
[Micro- + -scope.]
An optical instrument, consisting of a lens, or combination of lenses, for making an enlarged image of an object which is too minute to be viewed by the naked eye.

Compound microscope, an instrument consisting of a combination of lenses such that the image formed by the lens or set of lenses nearest the object (called the objective) is magnified by another lens called the ocular or eyepiece. -- Oxyhydrogen microscope, and Solar microscope. See under Oxyhydrogen, and Solar. -- Simple microscope, or Single microscope, a single convex lens used to magnify objects placed in its focus.


word: Microscopical
definition:
Microscopical

Microscopic

{ Mi`cro*scop"ic (?), Mi`cro*scop"ic*al (?), }
a.
[Cf. F. microscopique.]

1.
Of or pertaining to the microscope or to microscopy; made with a microscope; as, microscopic observation.

2.
Able to see extremely minute objects.

Why has not man a microscopic eye?
Pope.

3.
Very small.
Specifically,
visible only by the aid of a microscope; as, a microscopic insect; also used figuratively; as, a microscopic advantage.


word: Microscopically
definition:
Microscopically

Mi`cro*scop"ic*al*ly
adv.
By the microscope; with minute inspection; in a microscopic manner.


word: Microseism
definition:
Microseism

Mi"cro*seism
(?)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. _; an earthquake, fr. _; to shake.]
A feeble earth tremor not directly perceptible, but detected only by means of specially constructed apparatus.
Mi`cro*seis"mic (#), Mi`cro*seis"mic*al (#), a.


word: Microseismograph
definition:
Microseismograph

Mi`cro*seis"mo*graph
(?)
n.
[Microseiem + -graph.]
A microseismometer; specif., a microseismometer producing a graphic record.


word: Microseismology
definition:
Microseismology

Mi`cro*seis*mol"o*gy
(?)
n.
[Microseiem + -logy.]
Science or study of microseisms.


word: Microseismometer
definition:
Microseismometer

Mi`cro*seis*mom"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Microseism + -meter.]
A seismometer for measuring amplitudes or periods, or both, of microseisms.
Mi`cro*seis*mom"e*try (#), n.


word: Microseme
definition:
Microseme

Mi"cro*seme
(?)
a.
[Micro- + Gr. _; sign, mark: cf. F. microsème.]
(Anat.)
Having the orbital index relatively small; having the orbits broad transversely; -- opposed to megaseme.


word: microsome
definition:
microsome

microsome
n.
(Cell biology)
a tiny granule in the cytoplasm of a cell; it consists of ribosomes bound to fragments of the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria.


word: Microsorium
definition:
Microsorium

Microsorium
prop. n.
A genus of tropical usually epiphytic ferns, found from Africa to Asia, and from Polynesia to Australia.

Syn. -- genus Microsorium.


word: Microspectroscope
definition:
Microspectroscope

Mi`cro*spec"tro*scope
(mī`kro̝*spĕk"tro̝*sk&omacrp or mĭ`kro̝*spĕk"tro̝*sk&omacrp)
n.
[Micro- + spectroscope.]
(Physics)
A spectroscope arranged for attachment to a microscope, for observation of the spectrum of light from minute portions of any substance.


word: Microsporangium
definition:
Microsporangium

Mi`cro*spo*ran"gi*um
(?)
n.
[NL. See Micro-, and Sporangium.]
(Bot.)
A sporangium or conceptacle containing only very minute spores.  Cf. Macrosporangium.


word: Microspore
definition:
Microspore

Mi"cro*spore
(mī"kro̝*sp&omacrr)
n.
[Micro- + spore.]
(Bot.)
One of the exceedingly minute spores found in certain flowerless plants, as Selaginella and Isoetes, which bear two kinds of spores, one very much smaller than the other.  Cf. Macrospore.


word: Microsthene
definition:
Microsthene

Mi"cro*sthene
(mī"kro̝*sthēn)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. sqe`nos might, strength.]
(Zool.)
One of a group of mammals having a small size as a typical characteristic.  It includes the lower orders, as the Insectivora, Cheiroptera, Rodentia, and Edentata.


word: Microsthenic
definition:
Microsthenic

Mi`cro*sthen"ic
(?)
a.
(Zool.)
Having a typically small size; of or pertaining to the microsthenes.


word: Microtasimeter
definition:
Microtasimeter

Mi`cro*ta*sim"e*ter
(?)
n.
[Micro- + tasimeter.]
(Physics)
A tasimeter, especially when arranged for measuring very small extensions. See Tasimeter.


word: Microtome
definition:
Microtome

Mi"cro*tome
(mī"kro̝*t&omacrm)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. te`mnein to cut.]
An instrument for making very thin sections for microscopical examination.


word: Microtomical
definition:
Microtomical

Microtomic

{ Mi`cro*tom"ic (?), Mi`cro*tom"ic*al (?) }
a.
Of or pert. to the microtome or microtomy; cutting thin slices.


word: Microtomy
definition:
Microtomy

Mi*crot"o*my
(?)
n.
The art of using the microtome; investigation carried on with the microtome.


word: Microvolt
definition:
Microvolt

Mi`cro*volt"
(mī"kro̝*v&omacrlt`)
n.
[Micro- + volt.]
(Elec.)
A measure of electro-motive force; the millionth part of one volt.


word: Microweber
definition:
Microweber

Mi`cro*we"ber
(mī`kro̝*vā"bẽr)
n.
[Micro- + weber.]
(Elec.)
The millionth part of one weber.


word: Microzoa
definition:
Microzoa

Mi`cro*zo"a
(mī`kro̝*z&omacr"ȧ)
n. pl.
[NL., fr. Gr. mikro`s small + zw^,on an animal.]
(Zool.)
The Infusoria.


word: Microzo0spore
definition:
Microzo0spore

Mi`cro*zo"o*spore
(mī`kro̝*z&omacr"o̝*sp&omacrr)
n.
[Micro- + zoospore.]
(Bot.)
A small motile spore furnished with two vibratile cilia, found in certain green algae.


word: Microzyme
definition:
Microzyme

Mi"cro*zyme
(?)
n.
[Micro- + Gr. zy`mh leaven.]
(Biol.)
A microorganism which is supposed to act like a ferment in causing or propagating certain infectious or contagious diseases; a pathogenic bacterial organism.
[obsolete]


word: Micrurus
definition:
Micrurus

Micrurus
prop. n.
A genus of snakes including certain of the coral snakes, such as the eastern coral snake (Micrurus fulvius).

Syn. -- genus Micrurus.


word: micturate
definition:
micturate

micturate
v. i.
to pass urine through the ureter; to urinate.
[Medical]

Syn. -- urinate, piddle, puddle, piss, pee, pee-pee, make water, relieve oneself, take a leak, spend a penny, wee, wee-wee, make, pass water.


word: Micturition
definition:
Micturition

Mic`tu*ri"tion
(?)
n.
[L. micturire to desire to make water, v. desid. fr. mingere, mictum, to make water.]
The act of voiding urine; urination; also, a morbidly frequent passing of the urine, in consequence of disease.


word: Mid
definition:
Mid

Mid
(mĭd)
a.
[Compar. wanting; superl. Midmost.]
[AS. midd; akin to OS. middi, D. mid (in comp.), OHG. mitti, Icel. miðr, Goth. midjis, L. medius, Gr. me`sos, Skr. madhya. √271.  Cf. Amid, Middle, Midst, Mean, Mediate, Meridian, Mizzen, Moiety.]

1.
Denoting the middle part; as, in mid ocean.

No more the mounting larks, while Daphne sings,
Shall list'ning in mid air suspend their wings.
Pope.

2.
Occupying a middle position; middle; as, the mid finger; the mid hour of night.

3.
(Phon.)
Made with a somewhat elevated position of some certain part of the tongue, in relation to the palate; midway between the high and the low; -- said of certain vowel sounds; as, ā (āle), ĕ (ĕll), &omacr (&omacrld). See Guide to Pronunciation, §§ 10, 11.

&hand_; Mid is much used as a prefix, or combining form, denoting the middle or middle part of a thing; as, mid-air, mid-channel, mid-age, midday, midland, etc. Also, specifically, in geometry, to denote a circle inscribed in a triangle (a midcircle), or relation to such a circle; as, mid-center, midradius.


word: midair
definition:
midair

mid*air"
n.
some point in the air; above ground level; as, the planes collided in midair; also used attributively; as, a midair collision.


word: Midas
definition:
Midas

Mi"das
(?)
n.
[So called from L. Midas, a man fabled to have had ass's ears.]
(Zool.)
A genus of longeared South American monkeys, including numerous species of marmosets. See Marmoset.


word: Midas's ear
definition:
Midas's ear

Mi"das's ear"
(?)
[See Midas.]
(Zool.)
A pulmonate mollusk (Auricula aurismidae or Ellobium aurismidae); -- so called from resemblance to a human ear.


word: Midbrain
definition:
Midbrain

Mid"brain`
(?)
n.
[Mid, a. + brain.]
(Anat.)
The middle segment of the brain; the mesencephalon. See Brain.


word: Midden
definition:
Midden

Mid"den
(?)
n.
[Also midding.]
[Cf. Dan. mögdynge, E. muck, and dung.]

1.
A dunghill.
[Prov. Eng.]

2.
An accumulation of refuse about a dwelling place; especially, an accumulation of shells or of cinders, bones, and other refuse on the supposed site of the dwelling places of prehistoric tribes, -- as on the shores of the Baltic Sea and in many other places. See Kitchen middens.


word: Middest
definition:
Middest

Mid"dest
(?)
a.
superl.
Mid
[See Midst.]
Situated most nearly in the middle; middlemost; midmost.
[Obs.]
middest
Spenser.


word: Middle
definition:
Middle

Mid"dle
(mĭd"d'l)
a.
[OE. middel, AS. middel; akin to D. middel, OHG. muttil, G. mittel.  √271. See Mid, a.]

1.
Equally distant from the extreme either of a number of things or of one thing; mean; medial; as, the middle house in a row; a middle rank or station in life; flowers of middle summer; men of middle age.

2.
Intermediate; intervening.

Will, seeking good, finds many middle ends.
Sir J. Davies.

&hand_; Middle is sometimes used in the formation of self-explaining compounds; as, middle-sized, middle-witted.

Middle Ages, the period of time intervening between the decline of the Roman Empire and the revival of letters.  Hallam regards it as beginning with the sixth and ending with the fifteenth century. -- Middle class, in England, people who have an intermediate position between the aristocracy and the artisan class. It includes professional men, bankers, merchants, and small landed proprietors
[1913 Webster]
The middle-class electorate of Great Britain. M. Arnold.
[1913 Webster]
-- Middle distance. (Paint.) See Middle-ground. -- Middle English. See English, n., 2. -- Middle Kingdom, China. -- Middle oil (Chem.), that part of the distillate obtained from coal tar which passes over between 170° and 230° Centigrade; -- distinguished from the light oil, and the heavy oil or dead oil. -- Middle passage, in the slave trade, that part of the Atlantic Ocean between Africa and the West Indies. -- Middle post. (Arch.) Same as King-post. -- Middle States, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware; which, at the time of the formation of the Union, occupied a middle position between the Eastern States (or New England) and the Southern States. [U.S.] -- Middle term (Logic), that term of a syllogism with which the two extremes are separately compared, and by means of which they are brought together in the conclusion. Brande. -- Middle tint (Paint.), a subdued or neutral tint. Fairholt. -- Middle voice. (Gram.) See under Voice. -- Middle watch, the period from midnight to four a. m.; also, the men on watch during that time. Ham. Nav. Encyc. -- Middle weight, a pugilist, boxer, or wrestler classed as of medium weight, i. e., over 140 and not over 160 lbs., in distinction from those classed as light weights, heavy weights, etc.


word: Middle₂
definition:
Middle

Mid"dle
(?)
n.
[AS. middel. See Middle, a.]
The point or part equally distant from the extremities or exterior limits, as of a line, a surface, or a solid; an intervening point or part in space, time, or order of series; the midst; central portion
specif.,
the waist.
Chaucer.
middle
Judg. ix. 37.

In this, as in most questions of state, there is a middle.
Burke.


word: Middle-age
definition:
Middle-age

Mid"dle-age`
(?)
[Middle + age.  Cf. Mediaeval.]
Of or pertaining to the Middle Ages; mediaeval.


word: Middle-aged
definition:
Middle-aged

Mid"dle-aged`
(?)
a.
Being about the middle of the ordinary age of man; early in the century, it was considered  between 30 and 50 years old, but by the end of the 19th centruy it was considered as 40 to 60.


word: Middle-earth
definition:
Middle-earth

Mid"dle-earth`
(?)
n.
The world, considered as lying between heaven and hell.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Middle-ground
definition:
Middle-ground

Mid"dle-ground`
(?)
n.
(Paint.)
That part of a picture between the foreground and the background.


word: Middleman
definition:
Middleman

Mid"dle*man
(?)
n.
pl. Middlemen (_;).

1.
An agent between two parties; a broker; a go-between; any dealer between the producer and the consumer; in Ireland, one who takes land of the proprietors in large tracts, and then rents it out in small portions to the peasantry.

2.
A person of intermediate rank; a commoner.

3.
(Mil.)
The man who occupies a central position in a file of soldiers.


word: Middlemost
definition:
Middlemost

Mid"dle*most`
(?)
a.
[Cf. Midmost.]
Being in the middle, or nearest the middle; midmost.


word: middle-of-the-road
definition:
middle-of-the-road

middle-of-the-road
adj.
1.
supporting or pursuing a course of action that is neither liberal nor conservative.

Syn. -- centrist, moderate.

2.
not extreme, especially in political views.


word: Middling
definition:
Middling

Mid"dling
(?)
a.
Of middle rank, state, size, or quality; about equally distant from the extremes; medium; moderate; mediocre; ordinary.
middling
Hallam.

Plainly furnished, as beseemed the middling circumstances of its inhabitants.
Hawthorne.


word: Middlings
definition:
Middlings

Mid"dlings
(?)
n. pl.
1.
A combination of the coarser parts of ground wheat the finest bran, separated from the fine flour and coarse bran in bolting; -- formerly regarded as valuable only for feed; but now, after separation of the bran, used for making the best quality of flour. Middlings contain a large proportion of gluten.

2.
In the southern and western parts of the United States, the portion of the hog between the ham and the shoulder; bacon; -- called also middles.
Bartlett.


word: Midfeather
definition:
Midfeather

Mid"feath`er
(?)
n.
1.
(Steam Boilers)
A vertical water space in a fire box or combustion chamber.

2.
(Mining)
A support for the center of a tunnel.


word: midfield
definition:
midfield

midfield
n.
(sport)
the middle part of a playing field (as in football or lacrosse); as, he ran the kickoff back to midfield.


word: Mithgarthr
definition:
Mithgarthr

Midgarth

Midgard

{ Mid"gard (mĭd"gärd), n. Also Mid"garth (-gär&thlig_;), &VerbarMith"garthr (Icel. me̝&thlig_;"gär&thlig_;r') }
[Icel. miðgarðr.]
(Teut. Myth.)
The middle space or region between heaven and hell, the abode of human beings; the earth.


word: Midge
definition:
Midge

Midge
(?)
n.
[OE. migge, AS. mycge; akin to OS. muggia, D. mug, G. mücke, OHG. mucca, Icel. m_;, Sw. mygga, mygg, Dan. myg; perh. named from its buzzing; cf. Gr. _; to low, bellow.]
(Zool.)

1.
Any one of many small, delicate, long-legged flies of the Chironomus, and allied genera, which do not bite.  Their larvae are usually aquatic.

2.
A very small fly, abundant in many parts of the United States and Canada, noted for the irritating quality of its bite.

&hand_; The name is also applied to various other small flies. See Wheat midge, under Wheat.


word: Midget
definition:
Midget

Midg"et
(?)
n.
[Dim. of midge.]
1.
(Zool.)
A minute bloodsucking fly.
[Local, U. S.]

2.
A very diminutive person having normal proportions of the body parts; compare dwarf.


word: Midgut
definition:
Midgut

Mid"gut`
(?)
n.
[Mid, a. + gut.]
(Anat.)
The middle part of the alimentary canal from the stomach, or entrance of the bile duct, to, or including, the large intestine.


word: Midheaven
definition:
Midheaven

Mid"heav`en
(?)
n.
1.
The midst or middle of heaven or the sky.

2.
(Astron.)
The meridian, or middle line of the heavens; the point of the ecliptic on the meridian.


word: Midland
definition:
Midland

Mid"land
(?)
a.
1.
Being in the interior country; distant from the coast or seashore; as, midland towns or inhabitants.
Howell.

2.
Surrounded by the land; mediterranean.

And on the midland sea the French had awed.
Dryden.


word: Midland₂
definition:
Midland

Mid"land
(?)
n.
The interior or central region of a country; -- usually in the plural.
Drayton.


word: Midmost
definition:
Midmost

Mid"most`
(?)
a.
[OE. middemiste.  Cf. Foremost.]
Middle; middlemost.

Ere night's midmost, stillest hour was past.
Byron.


word: Midnight
definition:
Midnight

Mid"night`
(?)
n.
[AS. midniht.]
The middle of the night; twelve o'clock at night.

The iron tongue of midnight hath told twelve.
Shak.


word: Midnight₂
definition:
Midnight

Mid"night`
a.
Being in, or characteristic of, the middle of the night; as, midnight studies; midnight gloom.
Midnight
Milton.


word: mid-off
definition:
mid-off

mid-off
n.
(Cricket)
the fielding position in cricket closest to the bowler on the off side.


word: Midrash
definition:
Midrash

Mid*rash"
(?)
n.
pl. Midrashim (#), Midrashoth (#).
[Heb., explanation.]
A talmudic exposition of the Hebrew law, or of some part of it.


word: Midrib
definition:
Midrib

Mid"rib`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A continuation of the petiole, extending from the base to the apex of the lamina of a leaf.


word: Midriff
definition:
Midriff

Mid"riff
(mĭd"rĭf)
n.
[AS. midhrif; midd mid, middle + hrif bowels, womb; akin to OFries. midref midriff, rif, ref, belly, OHG. href body, and to L. corpus body. See Corpse.]
(Anat.)
1.
See Diaphragm, n., 2.

2.
The middle part of the front of the body, from the waist to the chest.

Smote him into the midriff with a stone.
Milton.

3.
That part of a garment, especially a dress or bodice, that covers the midriff{2}.


word: Mid-sea
definition:
Mid-sea

Mid sea

{ Mid" sea", or Mid"-sea" (?) }
n.
The middle part of the sea or ocean.
Milton.

The Mid-sea, the Mediterranean Sea. [Obs.]


word: Midship
definition:
Midship

Mid"ship`
a.
Of or pertaining to, or being in, the middle of a ship.

Midship beam (Naut.), the beam or timber upon which the broadest part of a vessel is formed. -- Midship bend, the broadest frame in a vessel. Weale.


word: Midshipman
definition:
Midshipman

Mid"ship`man
(?)
n.
pl. Midshipmen (_;).

1.
(a)
Formerly, a kind of naval cadet, in a ship of war, whose business was to carry orders, messages, reports, etc., between the officers of the quarter-deck and those of the forecastle, and render other services as required.
(b)
In the English naval service, the second rank attained by a combatant officer after a term of service as naval cadet. Having served three and a half years in this rank, and passed an examination, he is eligible to promotion to the rank of lieutenant.
(c)
In the United States navy, the lowest grade of officers in line of promotion, being students or graduates of the Naval Academy awaiting promotion to the rank of ensign.

2.
(Zool.)
An American marine fish of the genus Porichthys, allied to the toadfish; also called singingfish.

Cadet midshipman, formerly a title distinguishing a cadet line officer from a cadet engineer at the U. S. Naval Academy. See under Cadet. -- Cadet midshipman, formerly, a naval cadet who had served his time, passed his examinations, and was awaiting promotion; -- now called, in the United States, midshipman; in England, sublieutenant.


word: Midships₂
definition:
Midships

Mid"ships`
n. pl.
(Naut.)
The timbers at the broadest part of the vessel.
R. H. Dana, Jr.


word: Midst
definition:
Midst

Midst
(?)
n.
[From middest, in the middest, for older in middes, where -s is adverbial (orig. forming a genitive), or still older a midde, a midden, on midden. See Mid, and cf. Amidst.]

1.
The interior or central part or place; the middle; -- used chiefly in the objective case after in; as, in the midst of the forest.

And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him.
Luke iv. 35.

There is nothing . . . in the midst [of the play] which might not have been placed in the beginning.
Dryden.

2.
Hence, figuratively, the condition of being surrounded or beset; the press; the burden; as, in the midst of official duties; in the midst of secular affairs.

&hand_; The expressions in our midst, in their midst, etc., are avoided by some good writers, the forms in the midst of us, in the midst of them, etc., being preferred.


word: Midsummer
definition:
Midsummer

Mid"sum`mer
(?)
n.
[AS. midsumor.]
The middle of summer.
Shak.

Midsummer daisy (Bot.), the oxeye daisy.


word: midsummer-men
definition:
midsummer-men

midsummer-men
n.
(Bot.)
A Eurasian mountain plant (Sedum rosea) with fleshy pink-tipped leaves and a cluster of yellow flowers.

Syn. -- rose-root, Sedum rosea.


word: midterm
definition:
midterm

midterm
n.
1.
the middle of the gestation period.

2.
The middle of an academic term or a political term in office.

3.
An examination given in the middle of an academic term; a midterm examination.

Syn. -- midterm examination, midterm exam, midterm.


word: mid-thirties
definition:
mid-thirties

mid-thirties
n.
the time of life between 30 and 40.

Syn. -- thirties, thirty-something.


word: Midway
definition:
Midway

Mid"way`
(?)
n.
The middle of the way or distance; a middle way or course.
Shak.

Paths indirect, or in the midway faint.
Milton.


word: midweekly
definition:
midweekly

midweekly
adj.
occurring during the middle of the week; as, a midweekly prayer meeting.

Syn. -- midweek.


word: midwestern
definition:
midwestern

midwestern
adj.
Of or pertaining to the Midwest  region of the U. S., generally including Ohio; Indiana; Illinois; Iowa; Missouri; Kansas; Nebraska; and sometimes Michigan; Wisconsin; Minnesota; as, a midwestern city; midwestern accent.


word: Midwife
definition:
Midwife

Mid"wife`
(?)
n.
pl. Midwives (#).
[OE. midwif, fr. AS. mid with (akin to Gr. _;) + _; woman, wife. Properly, the woman or wife who is attendant upon a woman in childbirth. See Meta-, and Wife.]
A woman who assists other women in childbirth; a female practitioner of the obstetric art.


word: Midwifery
definition:
Midwifery

Mid"wife`ry
(?; 277)
n.
1.
The art or practice of assisting women in childbirth; obstetrics.

2.
Assistance at childbirth; help or cooperation in production.


word: Mien
definition:
Mien

Mien
(mēn)
n.
[F. mine; perh. from sane source as mener to lead; cf. E. demean, menace, mine, n.]
Aspect; air; manner; demeanor; carriage; bearing.

Vice is a monster of so frightful mien,
As, to be hated, needs but to be seen.
Pope.


word: mierkat
definition:
mierkat

mierkat
n.
(Zool.)
A South African mongooselike viverrine (Suricata suricata) having a lemurlike face and only four toes; called also suricate.
[Also spelled meerkat.]

Syn. -- meerkat.


word: Miff
definition:
Miff

Miff
(mĭf)
n.
[Cf. Prov. G. muff sullenness, sulkiness, muffen to be silky, muffïg sullen, pouting.]
A petty falling out; a tiff; a quarrel; offense.
Fielding.


word: Might₂
definition:
Might

Might
n.
[AS. meaht, miht, from the root of magan to be able, E. may; akin to D. magt, OS. maht, G. macht, Icel. māttr, Goth. mahts. √103.  See May, v.]
Force or power of any kind, whether of body or mind; energy or intensity of purpose, feeling, or action; means or resources to effect an object; strength; force; power; ability; capacity.

What so strong,
But wanting rest, will also want of might?
Spenser.

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
Deut. vi. 5.

With might and main. See under 2d Main.


word: Mightily
definition:
Mightily

Might"i*ly
(?)
adv.
[From Mighty.]
1.
In a mighty manner; with might; with great earnestness; vigorously; powerfully.

Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Col. i. 29.

2.
To a great degree; very much.

Practical jokes amused us mightily.
Hawthorne.


word: Mightiness
definition:
Mightiness

Might"i*ness
n.
1.
The quality of being mighty; possession of might; power; greatness; high dignity.

How soon this mightiness meets misery.
Shak.

2.
Highness; excellency; -- with a possessive pronoun, a title of dignity; as, their high mightinesses.


word: Mighty
definition:
Mighty

Might"y
(?)
a.
[Compar. Mightier (?); superl. Mightiest.]
[AS. meahtig, mihtig; akin to G. mächtig, Goth. mahteigs. See Might, n.]

1.
Possessing might; having great power or authority.

Wise in heart, and mighty in strength.
Job ix. 4.

2.
Accomplished by might; hence, extraordinary; wonderful.
mighty
Matt. xi. 20.

3.
Denoting an extraordinary degree or quality in respect of size, character, importance, consequences, etc.
mighty
Luke xv. 14.
mighty
Milton.

Mighty was their fuss about little matters.
Hawthorne.


word: Mighty₂
definition:
Mighty

Might"y
n.
pl. Mighties (#).
A warrior of great force and courage.
[R. & Obs.]
1 Chron. xi. 12.


word: Mighty₃
definition:
Mighty

Might"y
adv.
In a great degree; very.
[Colloq.]
mighty
Jeffrey.

We have a mighty pleasant garden.
Doddridge.


word: Migniard
definition:
Migniard

Mign"iard
(?)
a.
[F. mignard, akin to mignon. See Minion.]
Soft; dainty.
[Obs.]
B. Jonson.


word: Mignonette
definition:
Mignonette

Mi`gnon*ette"
(?)
n.
[F. mignonnette, dim. of mignon darling. See 2d Minion.]
(Bot.)
A plant (Reseda odorata) having greenish flowers with orange-colored stamens, and exhaling a delicious fragrance.  In Africa it is a low shrub, but further north it is usually an annual herb.

Mignonette pepper, coarse pepper.


word: migraine
definition:
migraine

mi*graine"
(?)
n.
[F. migraine, LL. hemigrania, L. hemicrania, hemicranium, Gr. "hmikrani`a; "hmi- half + krani`on skull.  See Hemi- and Cranium, and cf. Hemicrania, Migraine.]
1.
A kind of intense sick or nervous headache, usually periodical and confined to one side of the head; called also migraine headache.  Same as megrim.
Mi*grain"ous, a.


word: Migrant₂
definition:
Migrant

Mi"grant
(?)
n.
1.
A migratory bird, person, or other animal.
2.
A person who changes residence frequently in search of employment, especially farm labor, such as harvesting crops seasonally; also called migrant laborer or migrant worker.  Sometimes the migrant worker is not a resident of the country in which the work is performed.


word: Migrate
definition:
Migrate

Mi"grate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Migrated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Migrating (?).]
[L. migratus, p. p. of migrare to migrate, transfer.]

1.
To remove from one country or region to another, with a view to residence; to change one's place of residence; to remove; as, the Moors who migrated from Africa into Spain; to migrate to the West.

2.
To pass periodically from one region or climate to another for feeding or breeding; -- said of certain birds, fishes, and quadrupeds.


word: Migratory
definition:
Migratory

Mi"gra*to*ry
(?)
a.
[Cf. F. migratoire.]

1.
Removing regularly or occasionally from one region or climate to another; as, migratory birds.

2.
Hence, roving; wandering; nomad; as, migratory habits; a migratory life.

Migratory locust (Zool.) See Locust. -- Migratory thrush (Zool.), the American robin. See Robin.


word: Mikado
definition:
Mikado

Mi*ka"do
(?)
n.
[Jap.]
The popular designation of the hereditary sovereign of Japan; the emperor of Japan.


word: mike
definition:
mike

mike
n.
[shortened from microphone.]
A microphone, the device for converting sound waves into electrical energy.
[informal]

Syn. -- microphone.


word: mil
definition:
mil

mil
n.
1.
an obsolete monetary unit of Cyprus equal in value to 1/1000 of a pound.

2.
a unit of length equal to 1/1000 inch, used especially in measuring the thickness of sheets of materials.

3.
one milliliter; -- used mostly in informal speech.
[laboratory slang]

Syn. -- milliliter, millilitre, ml, cubic centimeter, cubic centimetre, cc.

4.
a unit of angular size equal to 1/6400 of 360 degrees; -- it is used especially in artillery ranging.

Syn. -- mil.


word: mil₂
definition:
mil

mil
n.
[by contraction from million.]
One million dollars; as, his new house cost over a mil.
[slang]


word: Milady
definition:
Milady

Mi*la"dy
(?)
n.
[F., fr. English.]
Lit., my lady; hence (as used on the Continent), an English noblewoman or gentlewoman.


word: Milanese
definition:
Milanese

Mil`an*ese"
(?)
prop. a.
Of or pertaining to Milan in Italy, or to its inhabitants.
n. sing. & pl. A native or inhabitant of Milan; people of Milan.


word: Milch
definition:
Milch

Milch
(?)
a.
[OE. milche; akin to G. melk, Icel. milkr, mj&omacrlkr, and to E. milk. See Milk.]

1.
Giving milk; -- now applied only to beasts.
Milch
Gen. xxxii.
Milch
Shak.

2.
Tender; pitiful; weeping.
[Obs.]
Shak.


word: Mild
definition:
Mild

Mild
(mīld)
a.
[Compar. Milder (?); superl. Mildest.]
[AS. milde; akin to OS. mildi, D. & G. mild, OHG. milti, Icel. mildr, Sw. & Dan. mild, Goth. milds; cf. Lith. melas dear, Gr. _; gladdening gifts.]
Gentle; pleasant; kind; soft; bland; clement; hence, moderate in degree or quality; -- the opposite of harsh, severe, irritating, violent, disagreeable, etc.; -- applied to persons and things; as, a mild disposition; a mild eye; a mild air; a mild medicine; a mild insanity.

The rosy morn resigns her light
And milder glory to the noon.
Waller.

Adore him as a mild and merciful Being.
Rogers.

Mild steel, or Low steel, steel that has but little carbon in it and is not readily hardened.


word: Mildew
definition:
Mildew

Mil"dew
(?)
n.
[AS. meledeáw; akin to OHG. militou, G. mehlthau, mehltau; prob. orig. meaning, honeydew; cf. Goth. milip honey. See Mellifluous, and Dew.]
(Bot.)
A growth of minute powdery or webby fungi, whitish or of different colors, found on various diseased or decaying substances.

powdery mildew a fungal disease of plants caused by an ascomycete of the order Erysiphales, characterized by a powdery white film on the surface of the affected plants.  It is damaging to, e.g., roses and lilacs.  Also, a fungus that causes such a disease.


word: Mildew₂
definition:
Mildew

Mil"dew
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mildewed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mildewing.]
To taint with mildew; as, mildewed clothing.

He . . . mildews the white wheat.
Shak.


word: Mildness
definition:
Mildness

Mild"ness
n.
The quality or state of being mild; as, mildness of temper; the mildness of the winter.


word: Mile
definition:
Mile

Mile
(mīl)
n.
[AS. mīl, fr. L. millia, milia; pl. of mille a thousand, i. e., milia passuum a thousand paces.  Cf. Mill the tenth of a cent, Million.]
A certain measure of distance, being equivalent in England and the United States to 320 poles or rods, or 5,280 feet.

&hand_; The distance called a mile varies greatly in different countries.  Its length in yards is, in Norway, 12,182; in Brunswick, 11,816; in Sweden, 11,660; in Hungary, 9,139; in Switzerland, 8,548; in Austria, 8,297; in Prussia, 8,238; in Poland, 8,100; in Italy, 2,025; in England and the United States, 1,760; in Spain, 1,552; in the Netherlands, 1,094.

Geographical mile or Nautical mile, one sixtieth of a degree of a great circle of the earth, or 6080.27 feet. -- Mile run. Same as Train mile. See under Train. -- Roman mile, a thousand paces, equal to 1,614 yards English measure. -- Statute mile, a mile conforming to statute, that is, in England and the United States, a mile of 5,280 feet, as distinguished from any other mile.


word: Mileage
definition:
Mileage

Mile"age
(mīl"a̝j; 48)
n.
1.
An allowance for traveling expenses at a certain rate per mile.

2.
Aggregate length or distance in miles; esp., the sum of lengths of tracks or wires of a railroad company, telegraph company, etc.
[Written also milage.]

3.
The number of miles that a vehicle can travel after consuming a certain quantity of fuel; in the United States, usually expressed in units of miles per gallon; as, smaller cars tend to get better mileage.  It is sometimes used as a nmeasure of the energy efficiency of a vehicle.

4.
Use, profit or advantage; as, he got a lot of mileage out of one hit record.

Constructive mileage, a mileage allowed for journeys supposed to be made, but not actually made. Bartlett.


word: mileometer
definition:
mileometer

mileometer
n.
a meter that shows mileage traversed.

Syn. -- odometer, hodometer, milometer.


word: Milepost
definition:
Milepost

Mile"post`
(?)
n.
1.
A post, or one of a series of posts, set up to indicate spaces of a mile each or the distance in miles from a given place.

2.
An event or accomplishment marking a significant advance in an endeavor; a notable achievment; as, putting a man in orbit was a big milepost on the way to the moon.

Syn. -- milestone.


word: Milesian
definition:
Milesian

Mi*le"sian
(?)
a.
[L. Milesius, Gr. _;.]

1.
(Anc. Geog.)
Of or pertaining to Miletus, a city of Asia Minor, or to its inhabitants.

2.
(Irish Legendary Hist.)
Descended from King Milesius of Spain, whose two sons are said to have conquered Ireland about 1300 b. c.; or pertaining to the descendants of King Milesius; hence, Irish.


word: Milesian₂
definition:
Milesian

Mi*le"sian
n.
1.
A native or inhabitant of Miletus.

2.
A native or inhabitant of Ireland.


word: Milestone
definition:
Milestone

Mile"stone`
(?)
n.
1.
A stone serving the same purpose as a milepost.

2.
An event or accomplishment marking a significant advance in an endeavor; a notable achievment; as, putting a man in orbit was a major milestone on the way to the moon.

Syn. -- milepost.


word: Milfoil
definition:
Milfoil

Mil"foil
(?)
n.
[F. mille-feuille, L. millefolium; mille thousand + folium leaf. See Foil a leaf.]
(Bot.)
A common composite herb (Achillea Millefolium) with white flowers and finely dissected leaves; yarrow.

Water milfoil (Bot.), an aquatic herb with dissected leaves (Myriophyllum).


word: Miliaria
definition:
Miliaria

Mil`i*a"ri*a
(?)
n.
[NL. See Miliary.]
(Med.)
A fever accompanied by an eruption of small, isolated, red pimples, resembling a millet seed in form or size; miliary fever.


word: Miliary
definition:
Miliary

Mil"ia*ry
(?; 277)
a.
[L. miliarius, fr. milium millet: cf. F. miliaire.]

1.
Like millet seeds; as, a miliary eruption.

2.
(Med.)
Accompanied with an eruption like millet seeds; as, a miliary fever.

3.
(Zool.)
Small and numerous; as, the miliary tubercles of Echini.


word: Milieu
definition:
Milieu

Mi`lieu"
(me̝*lyẽ")
n.
[F., fr. mi middle (L. medius) + lieu place. See Demi-, Lieu.]
Environment.
The intellectual and moral milieu created by multitudes of self-centered, cultivated personalities.
J. A. Symonds.
It is one of the great outstanding facts of his progressive relation to the elements of his social milieu.
J. M. Baldwin.


word: Miliola
definition:
Miliola

Mil"i*o`la
(?)
n.
[NL., dim. of L. milium millet. So named from its resemblance to millet seed.]
(Zool.)
A genus of Foraminifera, having a porcelanous shell with several longitudinal chambers.


word: Miliolite₂
definition:
Miliolite

Mil"i*o*lite
a.
The same Miliolitic.

Miliolite limestone (Geol.), a building stone, one of the group of the Paris basin, almost entirely made up of many-chambered microscopic shells.


word: Militancy
definition:
Militancy

Mil"i*tan*cy
(?)
n.
[See Militant.]

1.
The state of being militant; warfare.

2.
A military spirit or system; militarism.
H. Spencer.


word: Militant
definition:
Militant

Mil"i*tant
(?)
a.
[L. militans, -antis, p. pr. of militare to be soldier: cf. F. militant. See Militate.]
Engaged in warfare; fighting; combating; serving as a soldier.
Mil"i*tant*ly, adv.

At which command the powers militant . . .
Moved on in silence.
Milton.

Church militant, the Christian church on earth, which is supposed to be engaged in a constant warfare against its enemies, and is thus distinguished from the church triumphant, in heaven.


word: militarisation
definition:
militarisation

militarisation
n.
militarization.
[mostly Brit.]

Syn. -- mobilization, mobilisation, militarization.


word: Militarism
definition:
Militarism

Mil"i*ta*rism
(?)
n.
[Cf. F. militarisme.]

1.
A military state or condition; a military system; reliance on military force in administering government.

2.
The spirit and traditions of military life.
H. Spencer.

3.
The view that military strength, efficiency and values should dominate the country's public policy choices and take precedence over other interests.

4.
The policy of maintaining a large military force, even in peacetime; -- a term usually used by opponents of such a policy on the assumption that such a large force is unnecessary for national defense.


word: Militarist
definition:
Militarist

Mil"i*ta*rist
(?)
n.
1.
A military man.
[Obs.]
Shak.

2.
A person having a strong spirit of militarism, in senses 3 or 4.


word: militarization
definition:
militarization

militarization
n.
act of assembling and putting into readiness the military forces for war or other emergency.

Syn. -- mobilization, mobilisation, militarisation.


word: militarize
definition:
militarize

militarize
v. t. & i.
to lend a military character to (a country), as by building up a military force.

Syn. -- make military.


word: militarized
definition:
militarized

militarized
adj.
1.
Equipped with weapons; armed; -- used of persons, regions, or the military.  Contrasted to unarmed and demilitarized; as, if that's a demilitarized zone, I wonder what a militarized zone would look like.


word: Military
definition:
Military

Mil"i*ta*ry
(?)
a.
[L. militaris, militarius, from miles, militis, soldier: cf. F. militaire.]

1.
Of or pertaining to soldiers, to arms, or to war; belonging to, engaged in, or appropriate to, the affairs of war; as, a military parade; military discipline; military bravery; military conduct; military renown.

Nor do I, as an enemy to peace,
Troop in the throngs of military men.
Shak.

2.
Performed or made by soldiers; as, a military election; a military expedition.
Bacon.

Military law. See Martial law, under Martial. -- Military order. (a) A command proceeding from a military superior. (b) An association of military persons under a bond of certain peculiar rules; especially, such an association of knights in the Middle Ages, or a body in modern times taking a similar form, membership of which confers some distinction. -- Military tenure, tenure of land, on condition of performing military service.


word: Military₂
definition:
Military

Mil"i*ta*ry
n.
[Cf. F. militaire.]
The whole body of soldiers; soldiery; militia; troops; the army.


word: Militate
definition:
Militate

Mil"i*tate
(?)
v. i.
[imp. & p. p. Militated (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Militating (?).]
[L. militare, militatum, to be a soldier, fr. miles, militis, soldier.]
To make war; to fight; to contend; -- usually followed by against and with.

These are great questions, where great names militate against each other.
Burke.

The invisible powers of heaven seemed to militate on the side of the pious emperor.
Gibbon.


word: militate against
definition:
militate against

mil"i*tate a*gainst"
(?)
v. t.
To argue against; to cast doubt on; -- used in reference to facts which tend to disprove a hypothesis; as, the absence of a correlation of budget deficits with inflation militates against any causal relation between the two.  Opposite of support.


word: Militia
definition:
Militia

Mi*li"tia
(?)
n.
[L., military service, soldiery, fr. miles, militis, soldier: cf. F. milice.]

1.
In the widest sense, the whole military force of a nation, including both those engaged in military service as a business, and those competent and available for such service; specifically, the body of citizens enrolled for military instruction and discipline, but not subject to be called into actual service except in emergencies.

The king's captains and soldiers fight his battles, and yet . . . the power of the militia is he.
Jer. Taylor.

2.
Military service; warfare.
[Obs.]
Baxter.


word: Milk
definition:
Milk

Milk
(mĭlk)
n.
[AS. meoluc, meoloc, meolc, milc; akin to OFries. meloc, D. melk, G. milch, OHG. miluh, Icel. mj&omacrlk, Sw. mjölk, Dan. melk, Goth. miluks, G. melken to milk, OHG. melchan, Lith. milszti, L. mulgere, Gr. 'ame`lgein. √107.  Cf. Milch, Emulsion, Milt soft roe of fishes.]

1.
(Physiol.)
A white fluid secreted by the mammary glands of female mammals for the nourishment of their young, consisting of minute globules of fat suspended in a solution of casein, albumin, milk sugar, and inorganic salts.
milk
Chaucer.

2.
(Bot.)
A kind of juice or sap, usually white in color, found in certain plants; latex. See Latex.

3.
An emulsion made by bruising seeds; as, the milk of almonds, produced by pounding almonds with sugar and water.

4.
(Zool.)
The ripe, undischarged spat of an oyster.

Condensed milk. See under Condense, v. t. -- Milk crust (Med.), vesicular eczema occurring on the face and scalp of nursing infants. See Eczema. -- Milk fever. (a) (Med.) A fever which accompanies or precedes the first lactation. It is usually transitory. (b) (Vet. Surg.) A form puerperal peritonitis in cattle; also, a variety of meningitis occurring in cows after calving. -- Milk glass, glass having a milky appearance. -- Milk knot (Med.), a hard lump forming in the breast of a nursing woman, due to obstruction to the flow of milk and congestion of the mammary glands. -- Milk leg (Med.), a swollen condition of the leg, usually in puerperal women, caused by an inflammation of veins, and characterized by a white appearance occasioned by an accumulation of serum and sometimes of pus in the cellular tissue. -- Milk meats, food made from milk, as butter and cheese. [Obs.] Bailey. -- Milk mirror. Same as Escutcheon, 2. -- Milk molar (Anat.), one of the deciduous molar teeth which are shed and replaced by the premolars. -- Milk of lime (Chem.), a watery emulsion of calcium hydrate, produced by macerating quicklime in water. -- Milk parsley (Bot.), an umbelliferous plant (Peucedanum palustre) of Europe and Asia, having a milky juice. -- Milk pea (Bot.), a genus (Galactia) of leguminous and, usually, twining plants. -- Milk sickness (Med.), See milk sickness in the vocabulary. -- Milk snake (Zool.), a harmless American snake (Ophibolus triangulus, or Ophibolus eximius). It is variously marked with white, gray, and red.  Called also milk adder, chicken snake, house snake, etc. -- Milk sugar. (Physiol. Chem.) See Lactose, and Sugar of milk (below). -- Milk thistle (Bot.), an esculent European thistle (Silybum marianum), having the veins of its leaves of a milky whiteness. -- Milk thrush. (Med.) See Thrush. -- Milk tooth (Anat.), one of the temporary first set of teeth in young mammals; in man there are twenty. -- Milk tree (Bot.), a tree yielding a milky juice, as the cow tree of South America (Brosimum Galactodendron), and the Euphorbia balsamifera of the Canaries, the milk of both of which is wholesome food. -- Milk vessel (Bot.), a special cell in the inner bark of a plant, or a series of cells, in which the milky juice is contained. See Latex. -- Rock milk. See Agaric mineral, under Agaric. -- Sugar of milk. The sugar characteristic of milk; a hard white crystalline slightly sweet substance obtained by evaporation of the whey of milk.  It is used in pellets and powder as a vehicle for homeopathic medicines, and as an article of diet. See Lactose.


word: Milk₂
definition:
Milk

Milk
(mĭlk)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Milked (mĭlkt); p. pr. & vb. n. Milking.]

1.
To draw or press milk from the breasts or udder of, by the hand or mouth; to withdraw the milk of.
Milking
Gay.

I have given suck, and know
How tender 't is to love the babe that milks me.
Shak.

2.
To draw from the breasts or udder; to extract, as milk; as, to milk wholesome milk from healthy cows.

3.
To draw anything from, as if by milking; to compel to yield profit or advantage; to plunder.
Tyndale.

They [the lawyers] milk an unfortunate estate as regularly as a dairyman does his stock.
London Spectator.

To milk the street, to squeeze the smaller operators in stocks and extract a profit from them, by alternately raising and depressing prices within a short range; -- said of the large dealers. [Cant] -- To milk a telegram, to use for one's own advantage the contents of a telegram belonging to another person. [Cant]


word: Milk₃
definition:
Milk

Milk
(?)
v. i.
1.
To draw or to yield milk.

2.
(Elec.)
To give off small gas bubbles during the final part of the charging operation; -- said of a storage battery.


word: Milker
definition:
Milker

Milk"er
(?)
n.
1.
One who milks; also, a mechanical apparatus for milking cows.

2.
A cow or other animal that gives milk.


word: milk shake
definition:
milk shake

milkshake

milk"shake`, milk" shake`
(mĭlk" shāk`)
n.
A frothy drink of milk and flavoring and sometimes fruit or ice cream, shaken together or blended in  a blender.

Syn. -- milk shake, shake.


word: Milk sickness
definition:
Milk sickness

Milk sickness
(Veter., Med.)
A peculiar malignant disease, occurring in parts of the western United States, and affecting certain kinds of farm stock (esp. cows), and persons using the meat or dairy products of infected cattle. Its chief symptoms in man are uncontrollable vomiting, obstinate constipation, pain, and muscular tremors. Its origin in cattle has been variously ascribed to the presence of certain plants in their food, and to polluted water.


word: Milksop
definition:
Milksop

Milk"sop`
(?)
n.
A piece of bread sopped in milk; figuratively, an effeminate or weak-minded person.
Shak.

To wed a milksop or a coward ape.
Chaucer.


word: Milk vetch
definition:
Milk vetch

Milk" vetch`
(?)
(Bot.)
A leguminous herb (Astragalus glycyphyllos) of Europe and Asia, supposed to increase the secretion of milk in goats.

&hand_; The name is sometimes taken for the whole genus Astragalus, of which there are about two hundred species in North America, and even more elsewhere.


word: Milkweed
definition:
Milkweed

Milk"weed`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
Any plant of the genera Asclepias and Acerates, abounding in a milky juice, and having its seed attached to a long silky down; silkweed.  The name is also applied to several other plants with a milky juice, as to several kinds of spurge.  Its leaves are a favorite food source for the larvae of the monarch butterfly.


word: Milkwort
definition:
Milkwort

Milk"wort`
(?)
n.
(Bot.)
A genus of plants (Polygala) of many species.  The common European Polygala vulgaris was supposed to have the power of producing a flow of milk in nurses.

&hand_; The species of Campanula, or bellflower, are sometimes called milkwort, from their juice.


word: Milky
definition:
Milky

Milk"y
(?)
a.
1.
Consisting of, or containing, milk.

Pails high foaming with a milky flood.
Pope.

2.
Like, or somewhat like, milk; whitish and turbid; as, the water is milky. “Milky juice.”
Arbuthnot.

3.
Yielding milk.
Milky
Roscommon.

4.
Mild; tame; spiritless.

Has friendship such a faint and milky heart?
Shak.

Milky Way. (Astron.) See Galaxy, 1.


word: Mill
definition:
Mill

Mill
(mĭl)
n.
[L. mille a thousand.  Cf. Mile.]
A money of account of the United States, having the value of the tenth of a cent, or the thousandth of a dollar.


word: Mill₂
definition:
Mill

Mill
n.
[OE. mille, melle, mulle, milne, AS. myln, mylen; akin to D. molen, G. mühle, OHG. mulī, mulīn, Icel. mylna; all prob. from L. molina, fr. mola millstone; prop., that which grinds, akin to molere to grind, Goth. malan, G. mahlen, and to E. meal. √108. See Meal flour, and cf. Moline.]

1.
A machine for grinding or comminuting any substance, as grain, by rubbing and crushing it between two hard, rough, or indented surfaces; as, a gristmill, a coffee mill; a bone mill.

2.
A machine used for expelling the juice, sap, etc., from vegetable tissues by pressure, or by pressure in combination with a grinding, or cutting process; as, a cider mill; a cane mill.

3.
A machine for grinding and polishing; as, a lapidary mill.

4.
A common name for various machines which produce a manufactured product, or change the form of a raw material by the continuous repetition of some simple action; as, a sawmill; a stamping mill, etc.

5.
A building or collection of buildings with machinery by which the processes of manufacturing are carried on; as, a cotton mill; a powder mill; a rolling mill.

6.
(Die Sinking)
A hardened steel roller having a design in relief, used for imprinting a reversed copy of the design in a softer metal, as copper.

7.
(Mining)
(a)
An excavation in rock, transverse to the workings, from which material for filling is obtained.
(b)
A passage underground through which ore is shot.

8.
A milling cutter. See Illust. under Milling.

9.
A pugilistic encounter.
[Cant]
R. D. Blackmore.

10.
Short for Treadmill.

11.
The raised or ridged edge or surface made in milling anything, as a coin or screw.

12.
A building or complex of buildings containing a mill{1} or other machinery to grind grains into flour.

Edge mill, Flint mill, etc. See under Edge, Flint, etc. -- Mill bar (Iron Works), a rough bar rolled or drawn directly from a bloom or puddle bar for conversion into merchant iron in the mill. -- Mill cinder, slag from a puddling furnace. -- Mill head, the head of water employed to turn the wheel of a mill. -- Mill pick, a pick for dressing millstones. -- Mill pond, a pond that supplies the water for a mill. -- Mill race, the canal in which water is conveyed to a mill wheel, or the current of water which drives the wheel. -- Mill tail, the water which flows from a mill wheel after turning it, or the channel in which the water flows. -- Mill tooth, a grinder or molar tooth. -- Mill wheel, the water wheel that drives the machinery of a mill. -- Gin mill, a tavern; a bar; a saloon; especially, a cheap or seedy establishment that serves liquor by the drink. -- Roller mill, a mill in which flour or meal is made by crushing grain between rollers. -- Stamp mill (Mining), a mill in which ore is crushed by stamps. -- To go through the mill, to experience the suffering or discipline necessary to bring one to a certain degree of knowledge or skill, or to a certain mental state.


word: Mill₃
definition:
Mill

Mill
(mĭl)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Milled (mĭld); p. pr. & vb. n. Milling.]
[See Mill, n., and cf. Muller.]

1.
To reduce to fine particles, or to small pieces, in a mill; to grind; to comminute.

2.
To shape, finish, or transform by passing through a machine; specifically, to shape or dress, as metal, by means of a rotary cutter.

3.
To make a raised border around the edges of, or to cut fine grooves or indentations across the edges of, as of a coin, or a screw head; also, to stamp in a coining press; to coin.

4.
To pass through a fulling mill; to full, as cloth.

5.
To beat with the fists.
[Cant]
Thackeray.

6.
To roll into bars, as steel.

To mill chocolate, to make it frothy, as by churning.


word: Mill₄
definition:
Mill

Mill
v. i.
(Zool.)
To swim under water; -- said of air-breathing creatures.

2.
To undergo hulling, as maize.

3.
To move in a circle, as cattle upon a plain; to move around aimlessly; -- usually used with around.

The deer and the pig and the nilghar were milling round and round in a circle of eight or ten miles radius.
Kipling.

4.
To swim suddenly in a new direction; -- said of whales.

5.
To take part in a mill; to box.
[Cant]


word: Mill₅
definition:
Mill

Mill
v. t.
1.
(Mining)
To fill (a winze or interior incline) with broken ore, to be drawn out at the bottom.

2.
To cause to mill, or circle round, as cattle.


word: Mill-cake
definition:
Mill-cake

Mill"-cake`
(mĭl"kāk`)
n.
The incorporated materials for gunpowder, in the form of a dense mass or cake, ready to be subjected to the process of granulation.


word: Milldam
definition:
Milldam

Mill"dam`
(mĭl"dăm)
n.
A dam or mound to obstruct a water course, and raise the water to a height sufficient to turn a mill wheel.


word: Milled
definition:
Milled

Milled
(mĭld)
a.
1.
Having been subjected to some process of milling.

2.
Specifically:
Having multiple fine grooves on the rim, in the direction from obverse to reverse; -- of coins.  Coins of silver and gold were milled to make it impossible for uncrupulous persons to shave small pieces from the edge without detection.

Milled cloth, cloth that has been beaten in a fulling mill. -- Milled lead, lead rolled into sheets.


word: Millefiore glass
definition:
Millefiore glass

Mil`le*fi*o"re glass`
(?)
[It. mille thousand + fiore flower.]
Slender rods or tubes of colored glass fused together and embedded in clear glass; -- used for paperweights and other small articles.


word: Millenarian
definition:
Millenarian

Mil`le*na"ri*an
(?)
a.
[See Millenary.]
Consisting of a thousand years; of or pertaining to the millennium, or to the Millenarians.


word: Millenarian₂
definition:
Millenarian

Mil`le*na"ri*an
n.
One who believes that Christ will personally reign on earth a thousand years; a Chiliast.


word: Millenarism
definition:
Millenarism

Millenarianism

{ Mil`le*na"ri*an*ism (?), Mil"le*na*rism (?), }
n.
The doctrine of Millenarians.


word: Millenary
definition:
Millenary

Mil"le*na*ry
(?)
a.
[L. millenarius, fr. milleni a thousand each, fr. mille a thousand: cf. F. millénaire. See Mile.]
Consisting of a thousand; millennial.


word: Millenary₂
definition:
Millenary

Mil"le*na*ry
n.
The space of a thousand years; a millennium; also, a Millenarian.
millenary
Hare.


word: Millennial
definition:
Millennial

Mil*len"ni*al
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to the millennium, or to a thousand years; as, a millennial period; millennial happiness.


word: Millennialist
definition:
Millennialist

Mil*len"ni*al*ist
n.
One who believes that Christ will reign personally on earth a thousand years; a Chiliast; also, a believer in the universal prevalence of Christianity for a long period.


word: Millenniarism
definition:
Millenniarism

Millennianism

{ Mil*len"ni*an*ism (?), Mil*len"ni*a*rism (?), }
n.
Belief in, or expectation of, the millennium{2}; millenarianism.


word: Millennium
definition:
Millennium

Mil*len"ni*um
(mĭl*lĕn"nĭ*ŭm)
n.
[LL., fr. L. mille a thousand + annus a year. See Mile, and Annual.]
1.
A period of one thousand years.

2.
Specifically:
The period of a thousand years mentioned in the twentieth chapter of Revelation, during which holiness is to be triumphant throughout the world.  Some believe that, during this period, Christ will reign on earth in person with his saints.

3.
Hence:
A long period of happiness, righteousness, and prosperity, usually considered as being in the indefinite future.

4.
A thousandth anniversary;
especially,
Each first day of January falling in a year which is a multiple of one thousand, such as in 1000 a. d. or 2000 a. d.; as, the second millenium will be celebrated on January 1, 2000; also used attributively, as a millenium celebration.
Technically, if the calendar of the Common Era (Anno Domini) is considered as beginning on January 1, 1 a. d., then the millenium will fall in each year ending in 001, as in 1001 a. d. or January 1, 2001 a. d..  However in the common culture, the change of the first digit of the year from 1 to 2, as from 1999 to 2000 is considered as the more symbolic event, especially since the dating of the beginning of the Christian era is somewhat arbitrary, having been an attempt to fix the date of the birth of Christ, and being considered by scholars as being in error by as much as five years.


word: millennium bug
definition:
millennium bug

mil*len"ni*um bug`
(mĭl*lĕn"nĭ*ŭm bŭg`)
n.
(Computers)
An error in the coding of certain computer programs which store the year component of the date as two digits, assuming that the first two digits are 19, rather than as a complete number of four digits; when such programs are used after January 1, 2000, the date may be misinterpreted, causing serious errors or total failure of the program; -- called also year 2000 bug, year 2000 problem and Y2K bug.
In the several years leading up to the year 2000, large corporations and other users of computers in total spent many billions of dollars correcting this error in the programs they use.


word: Milleped
definition:
Milleped

Mil"le*ped
(mĭl"le̝*pĕdĭ)
n.
[L. millepeda; mille a thousand + pes, pedis, foot: cf. F. mille-pieds.]
(Zool.)
A myriapod with many legs, esp. a chilognath, as the galleyworm.
[Written also millipede and milliped.]


word: Millepora
definition:
Millepora

Mil*le*po"ra
(mĭl*le̝*p&omacr"rȧ)
n.
[NL.]
(Zool.)
A genus of Hydrocorallia, which includes the millipores.


word: Millepore
definition:
Millepore

Mil"le*pore
(mĭl"le̝*p&omacrr)
n.
[L. mille thousand + porus pore: cf. F. millépore.]
(Zool.)
Any coral of the genus Millepora, having the surface nearly smooth, and perforated with very minute unequal pores, or cells. The animals are hydroids, not Anthozoa. See Hydrocorallia.


word: Miller
definition:
Miller

Mill"er
(mĭl"ẽr)
n.
1.
One who keeps or attends a flour mill or gristmill.

2.
A milling machine.

3.
(Zool.)
(a)
A moth or lepidopterous insect; -- so called because the wings appear as if covered with white dust or powder, like a miller's clothes. Called also moth miller.
(b)
The eagle ray.
(c)
The hen harrier.
[Prov. Eng.]

Miller's thumb. (Zool.) (a) A small fresh-water fish of the genus Uranidea (formerly Cottus), as the European species (Uranidea gobio), and the American (Uranidea gracilis); -- called also bullhead. (b) A small bird, as the gold-crest, chiff-chaff, and long-tailed tit. [Prov. Eng.]


word: Millerite
definition:
Millerite

Mil"ler*ite
(?)
n.
A believer in the doctrine of William Miller (d. 1849), who taught that the end of the world and the second coming of Christ were at hand.


word: Millerite₂
definition:
Millerite

Mil"ler*ite
n.
[From W. H. Miller, of Cambridge, Eng.]
(Min.)
A sulphide of nickel, commonly occurring in delicate capillary crystals, also in incrustations of a bronze yellow; -- sometimes called hair pyrites.


word: Millesimal
definition:
Millesimal

Mil*les"i*mal
(?)
a.
[L. millesimus, fr. mille a thousand.]
Thousandth; consisting of thousandth parts; as, millesimal fractions.


word: millet
definition:
millet

mil"let
(mĭl"lĕt)
n.
[F., dim. of mil, L. milium; akin to Gr. meli`nh, AS. mil.]
(Bot.)
The name of several cereal and forage grasses which bear an abundance of small roundish grains. The common millets of Germany and Southern Europe are Panicum miliaceum, and Setaria Italica.
&hand_; Arabian millet is Sorghum Halepense. -- Egyptian millet or East Indian millet is Penicillaria spicata. -- Indian millet is Sorghum vulgare. (See under Indian.) -- Italian millet is Setaria Italica, a coarse, rank-growing annual grass, valuable for fodder when cut young, and bearing nutritive seeds; -- called also Hungarian grass. -- Texas millet is Panicum Texanum. -- Wild millet, or Millet grass, is Milium effusum, a tall grass growing in woods.


word: Milli-
definition:
Milli-

Mil"li-
(mĭl"lĭ-)
[From L. mille a thousand.]
(Metric System, Elec., Mech., etc.)
A prefix denoting a thousandth part of; as, millimeter, milligram, milliampère.


word: milliammeter
definition:
milliammeter

milliammeter
n.
a sensitive ammeter for detecting small currents, graduated in milliamperes.


word: Milliampere
definition:
Milliampere

Mil`li*am`père"
(mĭl"lĭ*äN`pâr")
n.
[Milli- + ampère.]
(Elec.)
The thousandth part of one ampere.


word: Milliard
definition:
Milliard

Mil`liard"
(F. me̝l`yȧr"; E. mĭl"lĭ*ärd)
n.
[F., from mille, mil, thousand, L. mille.]
A thousand millions; -- usually called billion in the United States.   See Billion.


word: Milliary
definition:
Milliary

Mil"li*a*ry
(mĭl"lĭ*a̝*r&ybreve_;)
a.
[L. milliarius containing a thousand, fr. mille thousand: cf. F. milliaire milliary.  See Mile.]
Of or pertaining to a mile, or to distance by miles; denoting a mile or miles.

A milliary column, from which they used to compute the distance of all the cities and places of note.
Evelyn.


word: Millier
definition:
Millier

Mil`lier"
(?)
n.
[F., fr. mille thousand.]
A weight of the metric system, being one million grams; a metric ton.


word: Millifold
definition:
Millifold

Mil"li*fold`
(?)
a.
[L. mille thousand + E. fold times.]
Thousandfold.
[R.]
Davies (Holy Roode).


word: Milligramme
definition:
Milligramme

Milligram

{ Mil"li*gram, Mil"li*gramme  }
(?)
n.
[F. milligramme; milli- milli- + gramme. See 3d Gram.]
A measure of mass and weight, in the metric system, being the thousandth part of a gram, very nearly equal to the weight of a cubic millimeter of water, or .01543 of a grain avoirdupois.


word: Millilitre
definition:
Millilitre

Milliliter

{ Mil"li*li`ter, Mil"li*li`tre  }
(?)
n.
[F. millilitre; milli- milli- + litre. See Liter.]
A measure of capacity in the metric system, containing the thousandth part of a liter.  It is very nearly equal to a cubic centimeter, and is equal to .061025 of an English cubic inch, or to .033815 of an American fluid ounce.


word: Millimetre
definition:
Millimetre

Millimeter

{ Mil"li*me`ter, Mil"li*me`tre  }
(?)
n.
[F. millimètre; milli- milli- + mètre. See 3d Meter.]
A lineal measure in the metric system, containing the thousandth part of a meter; equal to .03937 of an inch. See 3d Meter.


word: Millimicron
definition:
Millimicron

Mil"li*mi`cron
(?)
n.
[Milli- + micron.]
The thousandth part of a micron or the millionth part of a millimeter; one nanometer; -- a unit of length sometimes used in measuring light waves, etc.


word: milline
definition:
milline

milline
n.
an advertising measure; one agate line appearing in one million copies of a publication.


word: Milliner
definition:
Milliner

Mil"li*ner
(?)
n.
[From Milaner an inhabitant of Milan, in Italy; hence, a man from Milan who imported women's finery.]

1.
Formerly, a man who imported and dealt in small articles of a miscellaneous kind, especially such as please the fancy of women.
[Obs.]

No milliner can so fit his customers with gloves.
Shak.

2.
A person who designs, makes, trims, or deals in hats, bonnets, headdresses, etc., for women.

Man milliner, a man who makes or deals in millinery, that occupation having been at one time predominantly performed by women; hence, contemptuously, a man who is busied with trifling occupations or embellishments.


word: Millinery
definition:
Millinery

Mil"li*ner*y
(?)
n.
1.
The articles made or sold by milliners, as headdresses, hats or bonnets, laces, ribbons, and the like.

2.
The business of work of a milliner.


word: Milling
definition:
Milling

Mill"ing
(?)
n.
The act or employment of grinding or passing through a mill; the process of fulling; the process of making a raised or intented edge upon coin, etc.; the process of dressing surfaces of various shapes with rotary cutters. See Mill.

High milling, milling in which grain is reduced to flour by a succession of crackings, or of slight and partial crushings, alternately with sifting and sorting the product. -- Low milling, milling in which the reduction is effected in a single crushing or grinding. -- Milling cutter, a fluted, sharp-edged rotary cutter for dressing surfaces, as of metal, of various shapes. -- Milling machine, a machine tool for dressing surfaces by rotary cutters. -- Milling tool, a roller with indented edge or surface, for producing like indentations in metal by rolling pressure, as in turning; a knurling tool; a milling cutter.


word: Million
definition:
Million

Mil"lion
(mĭl"yŭn)
n.
[F., from LL. millio, fr. L. mille a thousand. See Mile.]
1.
The number of ten hundred thousand, or a thousand thousand, -- written 1,000,000. See the Note under Hundred.

2.
A very great number; an indefinitely large number.

Millions of truths that a man is not concerned to know.
Locke.

3.
The mass of common people; -- with the article the.

For the play, I remember, pleased not the million.
Shak.


word: Millionaire
definition:
Millionaire

Mil`lion*aire"
(?; 277)
n.
[F. millionnaire.]
One whose wealth is counted by millions of francs, dollars, or pounds; a very rich person; a person worth a million or more.
[Written also millionnaire.]


word: Millionairess
definition:
Millionairess

Mil`lion*air"ess
n.
A woman who is a millionaire, or the wife of a millionaire.
[Humorous]
Holmes.


word: Millionary
definition:
Millionary

Mil"lion*a*ry
(?)
a.
Of or pertaining to millions; consisting of millions; as, the millionary chronology of the pundits.
Pinkerton.


word: Millionth
definition:
Millionth

Mil"lionth
(?)
a.
Being the last one of a million of units or objects counted in regular order from the first of a series or succession; being one of a million.


word: Millionth₂
definition:
Millionth

Mil"lionth
n.
The quotient of a unit divided by one million; one of a million equal parts.


word: Millistere
definition:
Millistere

Mil"li*stere
(?)
n.
[F. millistère, from milli- milli- + stère.]
A liter, or cubic decimeter.


word: millpond
definition:
millpond

millpond
n.
a pond formed by damming a stream to provide a head of water to turn a mill wheel.


word: millrace
definition:
millrace

millrace
n.
a channel from a millpond to a millwheel, to provide the water current that turns the millwheel.

Syn. -- millrun.


word: Millreis
definition:
Millreis

Millree

Millrea

{ Mill"rea` (mĭl"rē`), Mill"ree`, Mill"reis` (mĭl"rēs`) }
n.
See Milreis.


word: Millrynd
definition:
Millrynd

Millrind

{ Mill"rind` (mĭl"rīnd`), Mill"rynd` (mĭl"rīnd`) }
n.
[Mill + rynd.]
(Her.)
A figure supposed to represent the iron which holds a millstone by being set into its center.


word: Mill-sixpence
definition:
Mill-sixpence

Mill"-sixpence
(?)
n.
A milled sixpence; -- the sixpence being one of the first English coins milled (1561).


word: Millstone
definition:
Millstone

Mill"stone`
(?)
n.
One of two circular stones used for grinding grain or other substance in a mill{1}.

No man shall take the nether or the upper millstone to pledge.
Deut. xxiv. 6.

&hand_; The cellular siliceous rock called buhrstone is usually employed for millstones; also, some kinds of lava, as that Niedermendig, or other firm rock with rough texture. The surface of a millstone has usually a series of radial grooves in which the powdered material collects.

Millstone girt (Geol.), a hard and coarse, gritty sandstone, dividing the Carboniferous from the Subcarboniferous strata. See Farewell rock, under Farewell, a., and Chart of Geology. -- To see into a millstone or To see through a millstone, to see into or through a difficult matter. (Colloq.)


word: Millwork
definition:
Millwork

Mill"work`
(?)
n.
1.
The shafting, gearing, and other driving machinery of mills.

2.
The business of setting up or of operating mill machinery.


word: Millwright
definition:
Millwright

Mill"wright`
(?)
n.
A mechanic whose occupation is to build mills, or to set up their machinery.


word: milometer
definition:
milometer

milometer
n.
a meter that shows mileage traversed.

Syn. -- odometer, hodometer, mileometer.


word: Milord
definition:
Milord

Mi*lord"
(?)
n.
[F. (also It., Sp., Russ.), fr. E. my lord.]
Lit., my lord; hence (as used on the Continent), an English nobleman or gentleman.


word: Milquetoast
definition:
Milquetoast

Milquetoast
n.
[From Caspar Milquetoast, a character in a cartoon strip by H. T. Webster, The Timid Soul (1935).]
a timid, unassertive man or boy fearful of confrontation and easily manipulated and dominated.

Syn. -- sissy, pantywaist, pansy, milksop.


word: Milreis
definition:
Milreis

Mil"reis`
(?)
n.
[Pg. mil reis, i. e., one thousand reis; mil a thousand + reis, pl. of real a rei.]
A Portuguese money of account rated in the treasury department of the United States at one dollar and eight cents; also, a Brazilian money of account rated at fifty-four cents and six mills (1913).


word: Milt
definition:
Milt

Milt
(?)
n.
[AS. milte; akin to D. milt, G. milz, OHG. milzi, Icel. milti, Dan. milt, Sw. mjälte, and prob. to E. malt, melt. √108. See Malt the grain.]
(Anat.)
The spleen.


word: Milt₂
definition:
Milt

Milt
n.
[Akin to Dan. melk, Sw. mjölke, G. milch, and E. milk. See Milk.]
(Zool.)
(a)
The spermatic fluid of fishes.
(b)
The testes, or spermaries, of fishes when filled with spermatozoa.


word: Miltonic
definition:
Miltonic

Mil*ton"ic
(?)
prop. a.
Of, pertaining to, or resembling, Milton, or his writings; as, Miltonic prose.


word: Miltwaste
definition:
Miltwaste

Milt"waste`
(?)
[1st milt + waste.]
(Bot.)
A small European fern (Asplenium Ceterach) formerly used in medicine.


word: Milvus
definition:
Milvus

Mil"vus
(?)
n.
[L., a kite.]
(Zool.)
A genus of raptorial birds, including the European kite.


word: Mime
definition:
Mime

Mime
(?)
n.
[L. mimus, Gr. _;, akin to _; to imitate, to mimic: cf. F. mime.  Cf. Mimosa.]
1.
A kind of drama in which real persons and events were generally represented in a ridiculous manner; an ancient Greek or Roman form of farce.

2.
An actor in such representations.

3.
The art of representing actions, events, situations, or stories solely by gestures and body movements, without speaking; pantomime{3}.

4.
An actor who performs or specializes in mime{3}; an actor who communicates entirely by gesture and facial expression; a pantomime{2}; a pantomimist; a mimer.

Syn. -- mummer, pantomimer, pantomimist.

5.
A mimic.


word: Mimeograph
definition:
Mimeograph

Mim"e*o*graph
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; to imitate + -graph.]
A copying device that uses a stencil through which ink is pressed; it was invented by Edison.

Syn. -- mimeo, mimeograph machine, Roneo.


word: mimeograph
definition:
mimeograph

mimeograph
v. t.
to make copies of using a mimeograph; as, She mimeographed the syllabus.

Syn. -- mimeo.


word: mimer
definition:
mimer

mim"er
(?)
n.
1.
A person who performs in a mime.

Syn. -- mime, mummer, pantomimer, pantomimist.

2.
A mimic.


word: Mimetical
definition:
Mimetical

Mimetic

{ Mi*met"ic (?; 277), Mi*met"ic*al (?), }
[Gr. _;, fr. _; to imitate.]

1.
Apt to imitate; given to mimicry; imitative.

2.
(Biol.)
Characterized by mimicry; -- applied to animals and plants; as, mimetic species; mimetic organisms. See Mimicry.


word: Mimetite
definition:
Mimetite

Mim"e*tite
(?)
n.
[Gr. _; an imitator. So called because it resembles pyromorphite.]
(Min.)
A mineral occurring in pale yellow or brownish hexagonal crystals. It is an arseniate of lead.


word: Mimical
definition:
Mimical

Mimic

{ Mim"ic (?), Mim"ic*al (?), }
a.
[L. mimicus, Gr. _;, fr. _; mime: cf. F. mimique. See Mime.]

1.
Imitative; mimetic.

Oft, in her absence, mimic fancy wakes
To imitate her.
Milton.

Man is, of all creatures, the most mimical.
W. Wotton.

2.
Consisting of, or formed by, imitation; imitated; as, mimic gestures.
Mimic
Wordsworth.

3.
(Min.)
Imitative; characterized by resemblance to other forms; -- applied to crystals which by twinning resemble simple forms of a higher grade of symmetry.

&hand_; Mimic often implies something droll or ludicrous, and is less dignified than imitative.

Mimic beetle (Zool.), a beetle that feigns death when disturbed, esp. the species of Hister and allied genera.


word: Mimic
definition:
Mimic

Mim"ic
n.
One who imitates or mimics, especially one who does so for sport; a copyist; a buffoon.
Burke.


word: Mimic₂
definition:
Mimic

Mim"ic
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Mimicked (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Mimicking.]

1.
To imitate or ape for sport; to ridicule by imitation.

The walk, the words, the gesture, could supply,
The habit mimic, and the mien belie.
Dryden.

2.
(Biol.)
To assume a resemblance to (some other organism of a totally different nature, or some surrounding object), as a means of protection or advantage.


word: Mimicker
definition:
Mimicker

Mim"ick*er
(?)
n.
1.
One who mimics; a mimic.

2.
(Zool.)
An animal which imitates something else, in form or habits.


word: Mimicry
definition:
Mimicry

Mim"ic*ry
(?)
n.
1.
The act or practice of one who mimics; ludicrous imitation for sport or ridicule.

2.
(Biol.)
Protective resemblance; the resemblance which certain animals and plants exhibit to other animals and plants or to the natural objects among which they live, -- a characteristic which serves as their chief means of protection against enemies; imitation; mimesis; mimetism.


word: Mimographer
definition:
Mimographer

Mi*mog"ra*pher
(?)
n.
[L. mimographus, Gr. _;; _; a mime + _; to write: cf. F. mimographe.]
A writer of mimes.
Sir T. Herbert.


word: Mimosa
definition:
Mimosa

Mi*mo"sa
(?; 277)
n.
[NL., fr. Gr. _; imitator.  Cf. Mime.]
(Bot.)
A genus of leguminous plants, containing many species, and including the sensitive plants (Mimosa sensitiva, and Mimosa pudica).

&hand_; The term mimosa is also applied in commerce to several kinds bark imported from Australia, and used in tanning; -- called also wattle bark.
Tomlinson.


word: Mimosaceae
definition:
Mimosaceae

Mimosaceae
prop. n.
A natural family of spiny woody plants (usually shrubs or small trees) whose leaves mimic animals in sensitivity to touch; commonly included in the family Leguminosae.

Syn. -- family Mimosaceae.


word: Mimosoideae
definition:
Mimosoideae

Mimosoideae
prop. n.
An alternative name used in some classification systems for the family Mimosaceae.

Syn. -- subfamily Mimosoideae.


word: Mimotannic
definition:
Mimotannic

Mi`mo*tan"nic
(?)
a.
[Mimosa + tannic.]
(Chem.)
Pertaining to, or designating, a variety of tannin or tannic acid found in Acacia, Mimosa, etc.


word: Mimus
definition:
Mimus

Mimus
prop. n.
The type genus of the family Mimidae, comprising certain of the mockingbirds.

Syn. -- genus Mimus.


word: min.
definition:
min.

min.
n.
An abbreviation for minute, a unit of time equal to 60 seconds or 1/60th of an hour.

Syn. -- minute, min.[abbrev.].


word: Min
definition:
Min

Min
prop. n.
1.
a dialect of Chinese.

Syn. -- Min dialect, Fukkianese, Hokkianese, Amoy, Taiwanese.

2.
an Egyptian god of procreation.


word: mina
definition:
mina

mi"na
(?)
n.
pl. L. Minae (#), E. Minas (#).
[L., fr. Gr. _;.]
An ancient weight or denomination of money, of varying value.  The Attic mina was valued at a hundred drachmas.


word: Minaret
definition:
Minaret

Min"a*ret
(?)
n.
[Sp. minarete, Ar. manārat lamp, lantern, lighthouse, turret, fr. nār to shine.]
(Arch.)
A slender, lofty tower attached to a mosque and surrounded by one or more projecting balconies, from which the summon to prayer is cried by the muezzin.


word: Minargent
definition:
Minargent

Min*ar"gent
(?)
n.
[Prob. contr. from aluminium + L. argentum silver.]
An alloy consisting of copper, nickel, tungsten, and aluminium; -- used by jewelers.


word: Minatorily
definition:
Minatorily

Minatorially

{ Min`a*to"ri*al*ly (?), Min"a*to*ri*ly (?) }
adv.
In a minatory manner; with threats.


word: Minatory
definition:
Minatory

Min"a*to*ry
(?)
a.
[L. minatorius, fr. minari to threaten. See Menace.]
Threatening; menacing.
Bacon.


word: Mince
definition:
Mince

Mince
(mĭns)
v. t.
[imp. & p. p. Minced (mĭnst); p. pr. & vb. n. Minging (mĭn"sĭng).]
[AS. minsian to grow less, dwindle, fr. min small; akin to G. minder less, Goth. minniza less, mins less, adv., L. minor, adj. (cf. Minor); or more likely fr. F. mincer to mince, prob. from (assumed) LL. minutiare. √101. See Minish.]

1.
To cut into very small pieces; to chop fine; to hash; as, to mince meat.
Bacon.

2.
To suppress or weaken the force of; to extenuate; to palliate; to tell by degrees, instead of directly and frankly; to clip, as words or expressions; to utter half and keep back half of; as, he doesn't mince words.

I know no ways to mince it in love, but directly to say -- “I love you.”
Shak.

Siren, now mince the sin,
And mollify damnation with a phrase.
Dryden.

If, to mince his meaning, I had either omitted some part of what he said, or taken from the strength of his expression, I certainly had wronged him.
Dryden.

3.
To affect; to make a parade of.
[R.]
Shak.


word: Mince₂
definition:
Mince

Mince
v. i.
1.
To walk with short steps; to walk in a prim, affected manner.

The daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, . . . mincing as they go.
Is. iii. 16.

I 'll . . . turn two mincing steps
Into a manly stride.
Shak.

2.
To act or talk with affected nicety; to affect delicacy in manner.


word: Mince-meat
definition:
Mince-meat

Mince"-meat`
(?)
n.
Minced meat; meat chopped very fine; a mixture of boiled meat, suet, apples, etc., chopped very fine, to which spices and raisins are added; -- used in making mince pie.


word: Mind
definition:
Mind

Mind
(mīnd)
n.
[AS. mynd, gemynd; akin to OHG. minna memory, love, G. minne love, Dan. minde mind, memory, remembrance, consent, vote, Sw. minne memory, Icel. minni, Goth. gamunds, L. mens, mentis, mind, Gr. me`nos, Skr. manas mind, man to think. √104, 278.  Cf. Comment, Man, Mean, v., 3d Mental, Mignonette, Minion, Mnemonic, Money.]

1.
The intellectual or rational faculty in man; the understanding; the intellect; the power that conceives, judges, or reasons; also, the entire spiritual nature; the soul; -- often in distinction from the body.

By the mind of man we understand that in him which thinks, remembers, reasons, wills.
Reid.

What we mean by mind is simply that which perceives, thinks, feels, wills, and desires.
Sir W. Hamilton.

Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
Rom. xiv. 5.

The mind shall banquet, though the body pine.
Shak.

2.
The state, at any given time, of the faculties of thinking, willing, choosing, and the like; psychical activity or state;
as:
(a)
Opinion; judgment; belief.

A fool uttereth all his mind.
Prov. xxix. 11.

Being so hard to me that brought your mind, I fear she'll prove as hard to you in telling her mind.
Shak.

If it be your minds, then let none go forth.
2 Kings ix. 15.

3.
Memory; remembrance; recollection; as, to have or keep in mind, to call to mind, to put in mind, etc.

To have a mind or To have a great mind, to be inclined or strongly inclined in purpose; -- used with an infinitive. “Sir Roger de Coverly . . . told me that he had a great mind to see the new tragedy with me.” Addison. -- To lose one's mind, to become insane, or imbecile. -- To make up one's mind, to come to an opinion or decision; to determine. -- To put in mind, to remind. “Regard us simply as putting you in mind of what you already know to be good policy.” Jowett (Thucyd. ).


