Word of the Day: Mate
When two animals, male and female, come together for the purpose of reproduction, they mate. This word can be used as a verb, a noun, and as an adjective.
- These birds mate in the spring. (verb)
- Spring is the mating season. (adjective)
- They’re mates. (noun)
The word “mate” can also refer to a person’s spouse.
- Pamela is a good mate.
- Jeff tries his best to be a helpful mate.
- He’s proven over the years to be a good mate.
Sometimes we use “mate” to refer to one thing that matches another in a pair, such as a pair of gloves, a pair of socks, or any two things that go together.
- Where is the mate for this black sock?
- This glove is missing its mate.
- It’s been a real struggle to get these two parts of the company to mate. There are too many personality conflicts.
In England and Australia, the word “mate” is popular when addressing a friend or when trying to appear friendly. In the United States, words such as “dude,” “buddy,” and “bro” are used instead of “mate.”
Essential English Dictionary
Visit the Popular English Words Beginning with M page to see the list of all words starting with letter M. For seeing the HiCafe dictionary, visit the Popular English Words with Meaning page.
