Main Entry:

¹me·di·um

Pronunciation:

\ˈmē-dē-əm\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural mediums or me·dia \-dē-ə\

Etymology:

Latin, from neuter of medius middle — more at mid

Date:

1589

1 a: something in a middle position b: a middle condition or degree : mean2: a means of effecting or conveying something: as a (1): a substance regarded as the means of transmission of a force or effect (2): a surrounding or enveloping substance (3): the tenuous material (as gas and dust) in space that exists outside large agglomerations of matter (as stars) <interstellar medium> bplural usually media (1): a channel or system of communication, information, or entertainment — compare mass medium (2): a publication or broadcast that carries advertising (3): a mode of artistic expression or communication (4): something (as a magnetic disk) on which information may be stored c: go-between, intermediary dplural mediums : an individual held to be a channel of communication between the earthly world and a world of spirits e: material or technical means of artistic expression 3 a: a condition or environment in which something may function or flourish bplural media (1): a nutrient system for the artificial cultivation of cells or organisms and especially bacteria (2): a fluid or solid in which organic structures are placed (as for preservation or mounting) c: a liquid with which pigment is mixed by a painter

usage see media