mating

Pluralmatings

1. 1
   nouncountable or uncountable

   The pairing of two animals so that they can produce young.

   Like two animals finding a partner to start a family.

   Scientists watched the mating of the rare birds during spring.

   During mating, the male frog calls loudly to attract a partner.

   Similarpairing, coupling, breeding, copulation

   Note
2. 2
   nouncountable or uncountable

   The act of two animals joining their bodies to produce young.

   The mating lasted only a few seconds before the insects flew apart.

   After mating, the female spider sometimes eats the male.

   Similarcopulation, coupling, intercourse, breeding

   Note
3. 3
   verb

   Present participle of mate. Use this form for an action happening right now.

   The two birds were mating in the tall grass by the pond.

   Many frogs are mating after the first heavy rains of the year.

   Note
4. 4
   adjective

   Shaped to fit neatly into another part that matches it.

   Like two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly.

   The two mating parts clicked together with a satisfying snap.

   Engineers checked that the mating surfaces lined up correctly.

   Similarmatching, corresponding, complementary

   Note

Showing meanings only. Show all 4