MERE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "mere" can be used as an adjective or a noun, conveying different meanings in each context. As an adjective, "mere" refers to something that is considered to be small, minor, or insignificant in size, value, or importance. It implies that the thing in question is nothing more than what is indicated, lacking any additional qualities, implication, or complexity. For example, when you describe an achievement as a "mere formality," it suggests that it holds little significance beyond being a necessary but straightforward procedure.
Additionally, "mere" can be employed as a noun, referring to a small body of water, such as a lake or a pond. This meaning emphasizes the size or extent of the body of water, suggesting that it is relatively small or lacking in grandeur compared to larger bodies of water like oceans or seas.
Overall, "mere" as an adjective underscores the insignificance or simplicity of something, while as a noun, it signifies a small body of water. This term is often used to emphasize the diminutive nature, limited scale, or negligible characteristics of an object, situation, or concept, providing contextual clarity regarding its scope or importance.
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• This or that only; distinct from anything else; simple; absolute.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MERE *
* 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.
Other Common Misspellings for MERE
Etymology of MERE
The word "mere" has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled "mǣre". It is a cognate of similar words in other Germanic languages such as Old Saxon "māri", Old High German "māri", and Old Norse "mærr". The common root of these words is traced back to Proto-Germanic "*mērijaz".
In Old English, "mere" primarily referred to a boundary or limit, and it was often used in the context of a boundary between land and water, such as a lake or a sea. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded, and "mere" came to be used more generally to describe a body of water or a lake. This broader usage is still seen today, especially in British English, where "mere" can refer to a small lake, pond, or pool.
Idioms with the word MERE
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mere trifle
The idiom "mere trifle" refers to something small or insignificant, often used to diminish the importance, value, or significance of a particular thing or matter. It suggests that the subject under consideration is of little consequence or not worth much attention or regard.
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when sb was a (mere) twinkle in their father's eye
The idiom "when sb was a (mere) twinkle in their father's eye" is used to describe a time long before a person was born or even thought of. It suggests the period when one's parents were not yet romantically involved or married, thus indicating a time of nonexistence or non-conception.
Similar spelling words for MERE
- Mera,
- Merrie,
- merrow,
- merry,
- Merri,
- meir,
- MERY,
- mehr,
- Meri,
- Meier,
- Meyer,
- Mero.
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