mesh

¹mesh

noun \ˈmesh\

Definition of MESH

1

: one of the openings between the threads or cords of a net; also : one of the similar spaces in a network —often used to designate screen size as the number of openings per linear inch

2

a : the fabric of a net b : a woven, knit, or knotted material of open texture with evenly spaced holes c : an arrangement of interlocking metal links used especially for jewelry

3

a : a weblike pattern or construction b : web, snare —usually used in plural

4

: working contact (as of the teeth of gears) <in mesh>

— meshed \ˈmesht\ adjective

Examples of MESH

1. We covered the blueberry bushes in nylon mesh to keep the birds from the fruit.
2. <a routine request that got hung up in the meshes of the state bureaucracy>

Origin of MESH

Middle English, probably from Middle Dutch maesche; akin to Old High German masca mesh, Lithuanian mazgos knot

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to MESH

Synonyms: entanglement, mesh(es), morass, net, noose, quagmire, quicksand, snare, tanglement, toil(s), trap

Related Words: knot, snarl, tangle; cat's cradle, labyrinth, maze; cobweb, spiderweb

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Rhymes with MESH

crèche, flèche, flesh, fresh, thresh