How mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/haʊ miːn/

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Unkind, cruel, or unpleasant in nature or behavior.

Examples

He was mean to his little brother, always teasing him.
The mean streets of the city were no place for a child.

Synonyms

Cruel
Unkind
Nasty

Antonyms

Kind
Generous
Compassionate

Additional Information

The term “How mean” is often used to describe someone or something that is unkind or unpleasant. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing a person’s behavior or a situation. The phrase is often used in informal settings, such as in casual conversations or online discourse.

In some cases, “How mean” can also be used to describe something that is unpalatable or unpleasant, such as a mean-spirited joke or a mean-tasting food.

It’s worth noting that the term “How mean” is often used interchangeably with other words, such as “cruel” or “unkind.” However, “How mean” tends to have a more informal tone and is often used in more casual settings.

In literature and poetry, “How mean” has been used to describe characters or situations that are unkind or unpleasant. For example, in Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the character of Tybalt is described as “mean” due to his cruel and aggressive behavior.

Etymology

The word “mean” has its roots in Old English and has evolved over time to take on various meanings. In the 14th century, “mean” referred to something that was “middling” or “average.” Over time, the word took on a more negative connotation, referring to something that was unkind or unpleasant.

Usage Notes

When using the term “How mean,” it’s essential to consider the context and tone. In informal settings, the phrase is often used to describe something that is unkind or unpleasant. However, in formal settings, it’s best to use more formal language to convey the same meaning.

Cultural References

The term “How mean” has appeared in various forms of popular culture, such as in music, film, and literature. For example, in the song “Mean” by Taylor Swift, the lyrics describe someone who is unkind and hurtful.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

There are several idiomatic expressions that include the word “mean,” such as “mean-spirited” or “mean-hearted.” These phrases are often used to describe someone or something that is unkind or unpleasant.

Related Words or Phrases

Words or phrases that are closely related to “How mean” include “cruel,” “unkind,” and “nasty.” These words all convey a sense of something that is unkind or unpleasant.

Collocations

The word “mean” often collocates with other words, such as “to” or “in.” For example, “mean to” someone means to intend to do something, while “mean in” something refers to the intended or explicit meaning of something.

Frequency of Use

The term “How mean” is moderately common in modern language. It is often used in informal settings, such as in casual conversations or online discourse.