Pronunciation: [mˈɛntə͡l] (IPA) 
"Mental" is a word that is spelled exactly as it sounds. The first syllable is pronounced /mɛn/, with stress on the first vowel. The second syllable is pronounced /təl/, with a neutral vowel sound. The vowel in the first syllable is pronounced like the "e" in "bed". The consonant "t" is pronounced clearly, followed by a schwa sound. Overall, the word "mental" is easy to spell as long as one is familiar with the sounds of English.
Mental, as an adjective, refers to anything related to the mind, intellect, or cognitive functions of a person. It pertains to the psychological and emotional aspects of human beings, encompassing thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and behaviors. It is an adjective often used to describe characteristics, conditions, or activities involving the mind or mental processes.
In the field of psychology and psychiatry, mental signifies anything that is associated with disorders, illnesses, or conditions affecting a person's cognitive or emotional well-being. It extends to a wide range of psychological conditions, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders (like depression or bipolar disorder), personality disorders, and psychotic disorders (like schizophrenia).
Furthermore, mental can also refer to activities or practices that aim to promote mental well-being or strengthen cognitive abilities. This includes mental exercises, such as puzzles or memory games, that enhance brain function and sharpen cognitive skills. It can also encompass therapeutic techniques, counseling, or talk therapy that addresses psychological or emotional issues.
When used in the context of law or legal proceedings, mental pertains to an individual's ability to comprehend or participate adequately in legal proceedings, often related to competence to stand trial or mental capacity to enter into agreements.
Overall, mental is an umbrella term that encompasses various aspects of the mind, including its processes, conditions, illnesses, and activities to promote well-being.
1. Relating to the mind 2. Relating to the chin, genial.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Pert. to the mind; intellectual.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "mental" derives from the Latin word "mentālis", which means "of the mind" or "pertaining to the mind". It is related to the Latin word "mēns" meaning "mind" or "intellect".
