mean/mien

mean (mēn)

Noun

• Something having a position, quality, or condition midway between extremes; a medium.
• Mathematics. A number that typifies a set of numbers, such as a geometric mean or an arithmetic mean.
• Logic. The middle term in a syllogism.

Adjective

• Occupying a middle or intermediate position between two extremes.
• Intermediate in size, extent, quality, time, or degree; medium.

Verb. _{^{meant (mĕnt), meaning, means.}}

Verb. Transitive

• To act as a symbol of; signify or represent: In this poem, the budding flower means youth.
• To intend to convey or indicate:
• To have as a purpose or an intention; intend: I meant to go running this morning, but I overslept.
• To design, intend, or destine for a certain purpose or end: a building that was meant for storage; a student who was meant to be a scientist.
• To have as a consequence; bring about: Friction means heat.

Verb. Intransitive

• To have intentions of a specified kind; be disposed: They mean well but lack tact.

Adjective. _{^{meaner, meanest}}

• Selfish in a petty way; unkind.
• Cruel, spiteful, or malicious.
• Ignoble; base: a mean motive.
• Miserly; stingy.
• Low in quality or grade; inferior.
• Low in social status; of humble origins.

mien (mēn)

Noun

• Bearing or manner, especially as it reveals an inner state of mind.
• An appearance or aspect.