—used to indicate that two things or people are being referred to rather than just one
She put both feet in the stream.
Both countries have agreed to the treaty.
We went to both museums.
I found both these articles to be very helpful.
both his eyes
Both actors have appeared on Broadway before.
: each one of two things or people
I'd like both, please.
There were two paintings for sale, and he bought (them) both.
We both were tired. = We were both tired. = Both of us were tired.
Arabic and French are both spoken there.
He read both of the books. [=he read both books]
—used before two words or phrases connected with and to stress that each is included
The show will be in both New York and London.
She is both beautiful and charming.
Both he and his wife play golf.
This product can both clean and protect your floors.
Cite this Entry
“Both.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/both. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
