expresses; expressed; expressing
1
a
: to talk or write about (something that you are thinking or feeling)
He expressed an interest in meeting her.
We expressed (to them) our thoughts/feelings/views on the subject.
She expressed surprise at his rude behavior.
b
: to make (your thoughts and feelings) known by doing something other than talking or writing
Her love of nature is expressed [=shown, reflected] in her paintings/music.
Words can't (even begin to) express how grateful I am.
2
: to show (an amount, quantity, etc.) by a sign or a symbol
The results can be expressed as a percentage.
The length, expressed in centimeters, is 29.
3
chiefly US
: to send (a package, letter, etc.) so that it will be delivered more quickly than usual : to send (something) by express
They expressed the package to us.
4
: to cause (something) to come out by squeezing or pressing
a room where nursing mothers can express [=pump] milk for their babies
always used before a noun
1
: said or given in a clear way
My express [=explicit] orders were for you to go directly home.
2
: of a particular kind
I came for that express [=specific] purpose.
3
a
: traveling at high speed with few stops
an express train/bus/elevator
b
: delivered faster than usual
an express shipment
c
: designed or intended to be used for fast movement or travel
express roads
the express lane at the grocery store
plural expresses
1
: a system for delivering things (such as letters and packages) quickly
He sent the package to us by express.
2
: a train or bus that travels quickly with few stops
He takes the express to work.
: by a system that delivers letters and packages quickly : by express
They sent the package express.
Cite this Entry
“Express.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/express. Accessed 14 Jun. 2026.
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