1
a
: a cavity in which a substance is shaped: such as
(1)
: a matrix for casting metal
(2)
: a form in which food is given a decorative shape
2
c
obsolete
: an example to be followed
3
: distinctive nature or character : type
4
: the frame on or around which an object is constructed
transitive verb
1
: to knead or work (a material, such as dough or clay) into a desired consistency or shape
3
: to determine or influence the quality or nature of
5
: to fit the contours of
fitted skirts that mold the hips
6
: to ornament with molding or carving
1
: a superficial often woolly growth produced especially on damp or decaying organic matter or on living organisms by a fungus (as of the order Mucorales)
2
: a fungus that produces mold
1
: crumbling soft friable earth suited to plant growth : soil
2
dialectal British
a
: the surface of the earth : ground
b
: the earth of the burying ground
3
archaic
: earth that is the substance of the human body
Be merciful, great Duke, to men of mold.—
William Shakespeare
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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