Need another word for Mean? Use these synonyms of Mean from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
cruel
harsh
unkind
bitter
nasty
unpleasant
disagreeable
unpalatable
foul
vile
vicious
malicious
spiteful
hateful
resentful
vengeful
unforgiving
pitiless
merciless
heartless
ruthless
brutal
savage
ferocious
fierce
intense
severe
stringent
austere
stern
grim
dour
sour
sullen
morose
gloomy
dismal
unpleasant
objectionable
distasteful
repulsive
repugnant
abhorrent
odious
disgusting
vile
loathsome
detestable
despicable
contemptible
ignoble
base
vile
infamous
notorious
Meaning of Mean
The primary meaning of the word "mean" is unkind or cruel.
Definitions
- Intending to convey a particular meaning or interpretation
- Unkind, cruel, or unpleasant
- Of a low or poor quality
- Intending to convey or express something, especially in a particular way
- Having or showing a willingness to do something, especially something unpleasant
Etymology of Mean
The word "mean" has its roots in Old English "mēan" which meant "common" or "shared"
It is also related to the Old Norse word "meðan" meaning "to mean" or "to intend"
The word has evolved over time to encompass various meanings, including unkind or cruel, and is now used in a wide range of contexts
Example Uses
- The mean streets of the city were no place for a child to grow up
- She gave me a mean look when I accidentally spilled coffee on her shirt
- The mean temperature in July is usually around 25 degrees Celsius
- He meant to hurt my feelings with his thoughtless comment
- The mean score on the test was 70, indicating that most students struggled with the material
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
kind
gentle
benevolent
compassionate
sympathetic
considerate
thoughtful
generous
charitable
humane
merciful
lenient
mild
moderate
pleasant
agreeable
nice
friendly
affable
amiable
cordial
warm
tender
loving
fond
affectionate
devoted
loyal
faithful
dedicated