main

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noun \ˈmān\

Definition of main

1 : physical strength : force —used in the phrase with might and main
2a : mainlandb : high sea
3 : the chief part : essential point they are in the main well-trained
4 : a pipe, duct, or circuit which carries the combined flow of tributary branches of a utility system
5a : mainmastb : mainsail

See main defined for English-language learners

See main defined for kids

Examples of main in a Sentence

My radio runs either off batteries or off the mains.
Turn off the water at the mains.

Origin and Etymology of main

in sense 1, from Middle English, from Old English mǣgen; akin to Old High German magan strength, Old English magan to be able; in other senses, from ²main or by shortening — more at may

NEW!

First Known Use: before 12th century

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main

adjective

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

See main defined for English-language learners

Examples of main in a Sentence

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

Origin and Etymology of main

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

NEW!

First Known Use: 15th century

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Main

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geographical name \ˈmīn, ˈmān\

Definition of Main

river 325 miles (523 kilometers) long in south central Germany rising in northern Bavaria in the Fichtelgebirge and flowing west into the Rhine River

MAIN Defined for English Language Learners

main

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noun

Definition of main for English Language Learners

: the largest pipe in a system of connected pipes
the mains : the system of pipes or wires for electricity, gas, or water
: the place where electricity, gas, or water enters a building or room

main

adjective

Definition of main for English Language Learners

: most important

MAIN Defined for Kids

main

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adjective \ˈmān\

Definition of main for Students

: first in size, rank, or importance : chief Go in the main entrance. What's the main reason?

mainly

adverb

main

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noun

Definition of main for Students

1 : the chief part : essential point The new workers are in the main well trained.
2 : a principal line, tube, or pipe of a utility system water main gas main
3 : high seas
4 : physical strength : force So they stood … both shoving with might and main … — Mark Twain, Tom Sawyer