main

²main

adj

Definition of MAIN

1

: chief, principal <the main idea>

2

: fully exerted : sheer <main force> <by main strength>

3

obsolete : of or relating to a broad expanse (as of sea)

4

: connected with or located near the mainmast or mainsail

5

: expressing the chief predication in a complex sentence <the main clause>

Examples of MAIN

1. Speed is the main advantage of this approach.
2. The company's main office is located in New York.
3. driving down the main road
4. This dish can be served as a main course or appetizer.
5. And now for the main event of the evening!

Origin of MAIN

Middle English, from Old English mǣgen-, from mǣgen strength

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to MAIN

Synonyms: arch, big, capital, cardinal, central, chief, dominant, first, grand, great, greatest, highest, key, leading, foremost, master, number one (also No. 1), numero uno, overbearing, overmastering, overriding, paramount, predominant, preeminent, premier, primal, primary, principal, prior, sovereign (also sovran), supreme

Antonyms: last, least

Related Words: distinguished, eminent, illustrious, noble, notable, noteworthy, outstanding, prestigious, signal, star, stellar, superior; high-level, senior, top; important, influential, major, mighty, momentous, significant; incomparable, matchless, unequaled (or unequalled), unparalleled, unsurpassed; celebrated, famed, famous, renowned

Near Antonyms: inconsequential, inconsiderable, insignificant, minor, negligible, slight, trifling, trivial, unimportant; collateral, inferior, secondary, subordinate, subsidiary

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