meaning

SayMEE-ning/ˈminɪŋ/UK/ˈmiːnɪŋ/

6 meanings of meaning

1
definitionnouncountable
What a word, phrase, or sign means.
Like a label that tells you what something is.
The meaning of this word is easy to learn.
I looked up the meaning of 'photosynthesis' in my science book.
UsageSay the meaning of a word, or ask what does it mean?
Similarsense, significance
Note
2
which impliesverb
The -ing form of mean. Use it to name the action, or after a noun to describe it.
I've been meaning to call you all week.
Aqua is a Latin word meaning water.
UsageSay I've been meaning to call you: you wanted to, but didn't yet.
Note
3
importancenoununcountable
The purpose or value that makes something feel important.
Like the reason that makes a long trip worth taking.
Many people look for meaning in their work.
Helping others gave her life real meaning.
UsageSay you find meaning in something.
Similarpurpose, significance, point, value, sense
Oppositepointlessness, futility
Note
4
intentionnouncountable or uncountable
What someone is trying to say or do.
Like the plan hiding behind someone's words.
I didn't understand his meaning at first.
Her meaning was clear: she wanted us to leave.
Similarintention, intent, drift, point, purport
Note

Less common meanings

5
expressiveadjective
Showing a clear feeling or message without using words.
Like a look that says a lot without any words.
She gave him a meaning look across the crowded room.
His meaning nod told us the plan was still on.
UsageSay a meaning look. Meaningful is the more common word.
Similarknowing, significant, pointed, expressive, pregnant
Note
6
well-intendedadjective
Having a certain kind of intention toward others, as in well-meaning or ill-meaning.
Like saying someone is kind-hearted or bad-hearted.
Her well-meaning advice only made the situation worse.
A well-meaning neighbor brought us soup when we were sick.
UsageUsed in well-meaning: a well-meaning friend.

meaning is a form of mean

mean, verb: To have a certain sense, or to show that something is true or will happen. Full entry

Forms: meanmeans he/she/itmeaning -ing formmeant past tense, past participle
Spelling: mean → meaning: add -ing

Practice

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Origins

Meanings 1, 3–4

From Middle English mening, from the word mean plus -ing.

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 2 facts

Meaning derives from Middle English mening. en.wiktionary.org
Meaning is formed from mean plus -ing. fr.wiktionary.org

Meanings 2, 5–6

From the word mean plus -ing.

Checked 31 Oct 2026 · 1 fact

Meaning derives from mean plus -ing. en.wiktionary.org