equal

Formsequals

Pluralequals

1. 1
   same measureadjective

   The same in size, number, amount, or how good something is.

   Like two stacks of blocks with the same number in each.

   Two plus two is equal to four.

   Cut the cake into equal pieces.

   UsageSay equal to something, or equal in size.

   Note
2. 2
   same rightsadjective

   Having the same rights, value, or treatment as others.

   Like two kids who each get the same number of cookies.

   All citizens are equal under the law.

   Women should get equal pay for the same work.

   UsageOften in equal rights and equal pay.

   Oppositeunequal

   Note
3. 3
   verbtransitive

   To have the same value as something else.

   Like a balance scale that sits level when both sides weigh the same.

   Ten dimes equal one dollar.

   Three plus four equals seven.

   UsageSay two plus two equals four (not incorrect: equals to four).

   Similarmake

4. 4
   peernouncountable

   A person or thing that has the same rank or value as others.

   She treats everyone on the team as an equal.

   Her apple pie has no equal anywhere in town.

   UsageSay something has no equal, or treat someone as an equal.

   Similarpeer, match, counterpart, equivalent

   Note
5. 5
   verbcolloquialtransitive

   To result in or add up to something.

   Like how skipping sleep adds up to feeling tired the next day.

   Hard work plus practice equals success.

   More speed can equal more danger on a wet road.

   UsageGood for short sayings: work equals success. In serious writing, say means.

   Similarmean, spell

6. 6
   verbtransitive

   To match something in amount or quality.

   Like running just as fast as the fastest runner.

   No one could equal her score in the contest.

   This year's harvest will equal last year's record.

   UsageSay no one can equal her; the past is equaled.

   Similarmatch, rival

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