Entry Word: mean

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 belonging to the class of people of low social or economic rank <Alexander Hamilton seems to have had feelings of inferiority because of his mean origins> — see ignoble 1
2 giving or sharing as little as possible <a mean child who hoarded all her toys> — see stingy 1
3 having or showing a desire to cause someone pain or suffering for the sheer enjoyment of it <a mean, embittered old woman who wanted company for her misery> — see hateful
4 not following or in accordance with standards of honor and decency <a mean trick to play on a trusting person> — see ignoble 2
5 of little or less value or merit <it's no mean feat to memorize that long poem> — see inferior 2
6 of the very best kind <Iʼm a mean dancer, so you could do worse than go to the prom with me> — see excellent
7 showing signs of advanced wear and tear and neglect <a mean little car that was almost 20 years old> — see shabby 1