MIDDLE Meaning and
Definition
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Middle is an adjective and noun that can be used to describe a physical position or refer to a specific point within a series or range. As an adjective, middle indicates a location equidistant from both ends or sides of something. It can imply being half or midway between two extremes, often used to denote the center between any two points, distances, or areas. Middle can also describe the state of being average or intermediate in quality, quantity, or importance.
As a noun, middle refers to the center or halfway point of something. It can denote a central position within a physical location, a temporal period halfway through an event or duration, or a person or thing situated at an equal distance from two or more other people or things. Middle can also describe the intermediate part of a structure or object, such as a central core or section.
Furthermore, middle can figuratively represent a particular range within a set or spectrum. For instance, it is commonly used to refer to the stage of life between childhood and adulthood, also known as adolescence. Additionally, middle can symbolize a state of compromise, balancing between opposing viewpoints or positions. It is often associated with diplomatic or mediating actions.
Overall, the term middle encapsulates the concept of centrality, equivalence, and a position between extremes, whether in terms of physical location, time, quality, quantity, or significance.
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• Equally distant from the extremes; intervening.
• The point or part equally distant from the extremities; the time which passes, or the events which happen, between the beginning and the end.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MIDDLE *
* 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 MIDDLE
Etymology of MIDDLE
The word "middle" originated from the Old English word "middel", which has Germanic roots. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "midjilaz". The Middle English form of the word was "mddel" before it gradually evolved to "middle" as we know it today. The word "middel" itself is believed to have been formed through a combination of the Proto-Indo-European roots "medhyo" meaning "middle" and "del-" meaning "part or share".
Idioms with the word MIDDLE
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Don't swap horses in the middle of the stream.
The idiom "Don't swap horses in the middle of the stream" means to not make changes or switch to a different approach or plan when you are already in the middle of a task or project. It emphasizes the importance of staying committed to a course of action until it is completed, rather than making abrupt changes that could disrupt progress or create complications.
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smack (dab) in the middle
The idiom "smack (dab) in the middle" is used to describe something that is positioned directly in the center or middle of a particular area or situation. It signifies being right in the middle of something or squarely in the center. It can be applied to physical placement, as well as metaphorical situations or circumstances.
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change horses in the middle of the stream Go to
The idiom "change horses in the middle of the stream" means to make a new choice or switch plans while in the middle of a task or process. It refers to the act of trading one horse for another while crossing a stream, which implies the risks and difficulties involved in making a change midway through something. This idiom emphasizes the importance of sticking to a decision or completing a task without changing course.
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the middle ground
The idiom "the middle ground" refers to a position or compromise that is neither extreme nor excessively biased, allowing for a fair and balanced resolution or compromise. It suggests finding a common ground or meeting point between two opposing viewpoints, often resulting in a practical or reasonable solution.
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Don't change horses in the middle of the stream.
The idiom "Don't change horses in the middle of the stream" means not to alter or abandon a course of action or plan that is already underway. It advises against making significant or unnecessary changes when you are in the midst of accomplishing something or facing a particular situation. The idiom is often used to emphasize the importance of consistency, continuity, and seeing things through until completion.
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play both ends against the middle
The idiom "play both ends against the middle" refers to a strategy where a person or group manipulates multiple parties in a conflict or negotiation to their advantage. It involves secretly supporting and gaining favor from both opposing sides in order to control and benefit from the situation or outcome. This idiom suggests a cunning and tactical approach of pitting adversaries against each other for personal gain.
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follow/steer/take the middle course/way/path
To "follow/steer/take the middle course/way/path" is an idiomatic expression meaning to adopt a moderate or balanced approach to something, avoiding extremes or radical positions. It suggests finding a compromise or middle ground that aims to please both sides or strike a fair and reasonable balance. It is often used in situations where there are opposing opinions or conflicting viewpoints.
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steer a middle course
The idiom "steer a middle course" means to take a moderate or balanced approach in making decisions or dealing with a situation. It refers to avoiding extremes or taking a middle ground between opposing views or actions.
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knock someone into the middle of next week
The idiom "knock someone into the middle of next week" means to hit or strike someone so hard that they are physically thrown far into the future, metaphorically implying that the impact is extremely forceful or powerful. It is often used figuratively to emphasize the severity or intensity of a physical blow, action, or event.
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knock (one) into (the middle of) next week
The idiom "knock (one) into (the middle of) next week" means to hit or strike someone so violently that it causes them to lose consciousness or be disoriented. It suggests a powerful impact that figuratively transports the person into the following week, emphasizing the intensity and forcefulness of the blow.
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be sb's middle name
The idiom "be sb's middle name" is used to describe a person's characteristic or quality that is so closely associated with them that it could be considered their second or middle name. It implies that the person possesses and embodies this quality to a significant extent.
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(in) the middle of nowhere
The idiom "(in) the middle of nowhere" refers to a remote or isolated location that is far away from any populated area or significant landmarks. It describes a place that is extremely distant, difficult to reach, and lacking in amenities or signs of civilization.
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play both sides against the middle
The idiom "play both sides against the middle" means to manipulate or deceive multiple parties in order to benefit oneself. It involves pretending to support both sides of a conflict or disagreement, while secretly advancing one's own interests.
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the middle of nowhere
The idiom "the middle of nowhere" refers to a remote or isolated location, far away from populated areas or significant points of interest. It describes a place that is far removed from civilization or urban centers.
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middle ground
The idiom "middle ground" refers to a compromise or an agreement reached by finding a position or solution that is neither extreme nor one-sided. It suggests finding a balance or a common ground between opposing viewpoints or interests.
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divide/split (sth) down the middle
The idiom "divide/split (sth) down the middle" means to equally divide or separate something into two equal parts or halves. It suggests a fair and equal distribution or division of something.
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in the middle of sth/doing sth
The idiom "in the middle of something/doing something" means that someone is engaged in or occupied with a particular activity or task, typically implying that the activity is ongoing or incomplete. It suggests that the person is not available for interruptions or distractions because they are actively involved in the task at hand.
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be (one's) middle name
The idiom "be (one's) middle name" is used when someone wants to emphasize that a particular quality or characteristic is a fundamental part of their identity or personality. It implies that the trait mentioned is so ingrained in the person that it could be considered as one of their given names.
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(steer, take, etc.) a middle course
The idiom "(steer, take, etc.) a middle course" means to adopt a moderate or balanced approach between two extreme options or viewpoints. It refers to avoiding the extremes and finding a compromise or middle ground.
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in the middle of (something or someplace)
The idiom "in the middle of (something or someplace)" refers to being at a particular stage or location of a task or situation. It implies being actively and directly involved, typically at a point where there is still more to come or where things are ongoing.
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(find, etc.) a/the middle way
To (find, etc.) a/the middle way is an idiom that means to find a compromise or balance between two extreme positions or approaches. It refers to seeking a solution or course of action that avoids the extremes and focuses on a moderate or neutral path. It implies finding a reasonable and practical middle ground that accommodates both sides of an issue.
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You don't change horses in the middle of the race.
The idiom "You don't change horses in the middle of the race" means that it is unwise or impractical to make significant changes or switch strategies or plans when you are already in the midst of a task, project, or competition. It suggests that one should stay committed to their current course of action and not make abrupt or unnecessary changes that might hinder progress or create confusion.
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be in the middle of something/of doing something
The idiom "be in the middle of something/of doing something" refers to being actively engaged or occupied with a particular task, project, or situation. It implies that someone is not yet finished with what they are doing and are currently at some intermediate point or stage.
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in the middle
The idiom "in the middle" typically refers to being in a position that is neither extreme nor extreme. It suggests being in between two opposing sides or options, often implying a neutral or balanced standpoint.
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be in the middle of sth
The idiom "be in the middle of something" means to be actively engaged or involved in a particular task, activity, or situation. It refers to the state of working on, dealing with, or experiencing something that is not yet completed or resolved.
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(out) in the middle of nowhere
The idiom "(out) in the middle of nowhere" refers to a location or situation that is extremely remote, isolated, or far away from any populated areas or known landmarks. It often implies being in a desolate, secluded, or inaccessible place.
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be caught in the middle
To be caught in the middle means to be in a situation where you are stuck or involved in a conflict or disagreement between two or more opposing sides. It implies being in a difficult position where one may feel torn, pressured, or unsure of how to proceed.
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Don't swap horses in the middle of the river.
The idiom "Don't swap horses in the middle of the river" means to not change a course of action or make a major decision when you are already halfway through a task or project. It emphasizes the importance of sticking to a plan and not making abrupt changes that may disrupt progress or cause unnecessary complications.
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piggy in the middle
The idiom "piggy in the middle" refers to a situation where someone is caught or stuck between two opposing forces or parties who are playing a game or engaging in a conflict. This person becomes an object of contention, much like a ball is in a game of piggy in the middle, where two players try to keep it away from a central person. Therefore, the idiom is used to depict being caught in an uncomfortable or difficult position where one is being pressured, used, or taken advantage of by others.
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caught in the middle
The phrase "caught in the middle" refers to being in a difficult situation where one is faced with conflicting opinions, loyalties, or responsibilities, and is unable to choose a side or find a resolution. It often implies feeling trapped or helpless due to external circumstances or internal conflicts.
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middle of nowhere
The idiom "middle of nowhere" refers to a remote and isolated location, typically far away from any cities or populated areas. It denotes a place that is difficult to access or find, lacking in amenities and civilization. It signifies a sense of being in a desolate and uninhabited area.
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in the middle of
The idiom "in the middle of" typically means being in the midst of or engaged in something, usually referring to a specific action, event, or process that is currently ongoing or underway. It implies being involved in or occupied with a particular activity at that moment.
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follow/steer/take a middle course
The idiom "follow/steer/take a middle course" means to choose a moderate or balanced approach between two extreme options; to avoid extremes and find a compromise or middle ground. It implies not leaning too far towards one side or the other, but rather maintaining a more moderate stance or decision.
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Don't change horses in the middle of the river.
The idiom "Don't change horses in the middle of the river" means to not make a major decision or shift course when you are already deeply involved in or committed to a task or situation. It implies that changing one's mind or strategy at a crucial point might lead to confusion, loss of progress, or an unfavorable outcome.
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split/divide something down the middle
The idiom "split/divide something down the middle" means to divide something exactly in half, usually by sharing it equally between two parties or individuals.
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middle-aged spread
Middle-aged spread refers to the tendency for people in their middle years to gain weight, particularly around their midsection. This weight gain is often attributed to changes in metabolism, lifestyle, and hormonal fluctuations that occur as people age.
Similar spelling words for MIDDLE
- MATAL,
- meddle,
- super-model,
- MDL17043,
- MOTL,
- mutal,
- Leaf-metal,
- Queen's-metal,
- medley,
- late-model,
- motel,
- MDUL,
- mayetiola,
- mettle,
- chance-medley,
- Maiodil,
- motile,
- metal-cutting,
- middle-value,
- multi-modal,
- metal,
- lower-middle-class,
- madly,
- inter-mutual,
- MDISL,
- Mattel,
- middle-post,
- metal-metal,
- Co-meddle,
- mattula,
- Meetly,
- MIDL,
- modiola,
- middle/junior,
- mudl,
- middle-most,
- medullae,
- high-and-mightily,
- middle-american,
- Modally,
- metal-rich,
- MIOTL,
- MDTLY,
- EI-MODEL,
- metal-coloured,
- re-model,
- New-model,
- MATEL,
- Myodil,
- modulo,
- moodily,
- middle-road,
- mutual-fund,
- middle-persons,
- meduila,
- upper-middle,
- metelli,
- middle-schoolers,
- model-building,
- middle-income,
- bronze-medal,
- metula,
- MTLL-1,
- middle-range,
- Middle-earth,
- Self-mettle,
- middle-distance,
- MITLA,
- Medle,
- medal-winning,
- mutual-aid,
- MUDDL,
- MOODLE,
- hotel/motel,
- middle-passage,
- middle-ager,
- MTEL,
- middle-man,
- MUTL,
- medal,
- middle-of-the-pack,
- mutual-understanding,
- metal-colored,
- nickel-metal,
- Maidel,
- lower-middle,
- mitella,
- gold-medal,
- middle-limb,
- Meatal,
- Muddily,
- Middle-ground,
- METL,
- non-metal,
- middle-class,
- METALL,
- mightily,
- upper-middle-class,
- role-model,
- MTL,
- middle-ranking,
- mutual-friend,
- Medly,
- sheet-metal,
- Modioli,
- muddle-headed,
- medol,
- pari-mutuel,
- Motley-minded,
- MMTLY,
- medl,
- Modwall,
- module,
- middle-market,
- middle-of-the-road,
- silver-medal,
- middle-deck,
- Mudhole,
- mattulla,
- Bath-metal,
- Maudle,
- MADL,
- Mudwall,
- Midol,
- middle-school,
- middle-eastern,
- MDL,
- scale-model,
- Metely,
- MODUL,
- motley-crew,
- medial-lateral,
- Madelle,
- ex-model,
- all-metal,
- middle-people,
- non-motile,
- middle-ear,
- medial,
- mattole,
- MEDLEE,
- scrap-metal,
- MOAOTL,
- middle-of-the-night,
- middle-aged,
- model-sized,
- muddle,
- Madiol,
- Madella,
- Modula-Z,
- metal-working,
- mightly,
- CANMET/MTL,
- cross-modal,
- middle-mosts,
- Madel,
- metal-poor,
- middle-of-the-roaders,
- metal-on-metal,
- hotel-motel,
- mutely,
- metalaw,
- Mutule,
- medulla,
- mutually,
- medially,
- metal-framed,
- RH-MODEL,
- MAUTEL,
- metallo,
- heavy-metal,
- middle-age,
- service-medal,
- middle-of-road,
- model,
- motley,
- middle-level,
- model-based,
- upper-middle-income,
- Moduli,
- metally,
- mutual,
- re-medial,
- Metol,
- middle-men,
- modal,
- middle-sized,
- middle-person,
- MTL-CANMET,
- monkey-in-the-middle,
- Prince's-metal,
- Chaud-medley,
- mottle,
- middle-of-the-roader,
- metal-looking,
- middle-grade,
- middle-schooler,
- middle-management,
- Semi-metal,
- inter-meddle,
- modelly.
Conjugate verb Middle
CONDITIONAL
I
would middle
you
would middle
he/she/it
would middle
we
would middle
they
would middle
CONDITIONAL CONTINUOUS
I
would be middling
you
would be middling
he/she/it
would be middling
we
would be middling
they
would be middling
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have middle
you
would have middle
he/she/it
would have middle
we
would have middle
they
would have middle
CONDITIONAL PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
would have been middling
you
would have been middling
he/she/it
would have been middling
we
would have been middling
they
would have been middling
FUTURE
I
will middle
you
will middle
he/she/it
will middle
we
will middle
they
will middle
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be middling
you
will be middling
he/she/it
will be middling
we
will be middling
they
will be middling
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have middled
you
will have middled
he/she/it
will have middled
we
will have middled
they
will have middled
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been middling
you
will have been middling
he/she/it
will have been middling
we
will have been middling
they
will have been middling
IMPERATIVE
you
middle
we
let´s middle
to middle
PAST
I
middled
you
middled
he/she/it
middled
we
middled
they
middled
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was middling
you
were middling
he/she/it
was middling
we
were middling
they
were middling
PAST PARTICIPLE
middled
PAST PERFECT
I
had middled
you
had middled
he/she/it
had middled
we
had middled
they
had middled
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been middling
you
had been middling
he/she/it
had been middling
we
had been middling
they
had been middling
PRESENT
I
middle
you
middle
he/she/it
middles
we
middle
they
middle
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am middling
you
are middling
he/she/it
is middling
we
are middling
they
are middling
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
middling
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have middled
you
have middled
he/she/it
has middled
we
have middled
they
have middled
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been middling
you
have been middling
he/she/it
has been middling
we
have been middling
they
have been middling
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