plural levels
1
a
: a specific height
The pictures were hung on the wall at eye level.
at street/ground level
The pictures were hung at different levels.
b
: a part of a building that is at a specific height
We were seated in the upper level [=floor] of the restaurant.
2
: an amount of something
There was a high level of alcohol/lead in his blood.
a normal level of intelligence
Prices have risen to a new level.
He has shown a remarkable level of patience. [=he has been very patient]
They have demonstrated a high level of interest [=they have been very interested] in this proposal.
They checked the reservoir's water level. [=the amount of water in the reservoir]
3
: a position or rank in a scale : a position that is high or low when compared to others
She rose to the level of manager.
She has reached a rare level of financial success.
These problems affect people at all levels of society.
Can this problem be dealt with at/on a national level or must it be addressed at/on an international level?
4
: a way of thinking about, talking about, or dealing with something
The argument appeals to me on a purely intellectual level but fails to reach me on a deeper emotional level.
I'm attracted to the job on many levels.
He studied the changes in the chemical at the molecular level. [=he studied the changes in the molecules of the chemical]
She has enjoyed great success in her professional life, but, on a (more) personal level, this has been a very stressful time. [=this has been a very stressful time in her personal life]
5
: a device used to see when something is exactly flat
called also spirit level
1
: having a flat or even surface
We pitched the tent on level ground.
a level floor/road
The recipe calls for a level teaspoon/tablespoon of sugar. [=an amount of sugar that fills a teaspoon/tablespoon exactly without going above its edges]
2
: not going up or down
an airplane in level flight
Interest rates have remained level.
3
a
: having the same height as something else
—usually + with
The water was level with my waist.
The window is level with the tops of the trees.
b
: not in front of or behind something or someone else
The boards are level.
—often + withThey drew level with the rest of the runners.
Make sure that the ends of the boards are level with each other.
4
chiefly British
: having the same position, score, or rank : even
The teams are level (with each other) in the standings.
They trailed early in the game, but they drew level [=they tied the score] in the second half.
5
: steady and calm
She spoke in a level voice.
It's important to keep a level head [=to remain calm] when you're dealing with a dangerous situation like this one.
levels; US leveled or chiefly British levelled; US leveling or chiefly British levelling
1
: to make (something) flat or level
They will level the field.
We need to level the garden before we plant anything.
2
: to knock (someone or something) down to the ground
The earthquake leveled the city.
He leveled his opponent with a right hook.
3
a
: to point (a weapon) at someone
The robber leveled a gun at his head.
b
: to direct (something, such as criticism) at or against someone
They leveled a fraud charge against him. [=they charged him with fraud]
Several complaints have been leveled at the store.
Criticism has been leveled against the government for not responding to this crisis.
4
chiefly British
: to make (a score) equal : tie
He scored a goal that leveled the score at 3-3.
Cite this Entry
“Level.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/level. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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