MAIN

Definition of MAIN

MAIN Adjective

Main is an adjective that signifies something of primary importance, significance, or prominence within a particular context or hierarchy. Here are several key aspects associated with the term main:

Primary Importance: Main denotes the primary or principal status of something, emphasizing its significance, centrality, or essential nature in relation to other elements within a system, structure, or organization. It often implies that the subject in question holds the highest level of importance or priority.

Prominence or Preeminence: Main suggests prominence or preeminence, highlighting the visibility, attention, or recognition that a particular entity or attribute receives within a given context. It may refer to the most noteworthy or influential aspect of a situation, event, or object.

Central Role: Main conveys the idea of centrality, indicating that the subject is situated at the core or heart of a matter, serving as a focal point around which other elements revolve or depend. It implies a pivotal role in shaping outcomes, decisions, or actions.

Primary Component: Main may refer to the primary component or constituent of a larger entity or system, highlighting its fundamental role in defining the overall structure or function. It suggests that the subject is indispensable or irreplaceable in fulfilling the intended purpose or function.

Predominant Characteristic: Main can also describe the predominant characteristic or feature of something, emphasizing its dominant or prevailing nature relative to other attributes. It suggests that the subject exerts the greatest influence or has the most significant impact within a given context.

Main embodies the concept of primary importance, significance, or prominence, highlighting the central role, primary status, or predominant characteristic of something within a particular context. Whether denoting the primary component of a system, the central focus of attention, or the most influential aspect of a situation, main underscores the fundamental nature and importance of the subject in question.

Examples of MAIN in a sentence

  • The main entrance to the building is on the east side.
  • She served the main course of roasted chicken with vegetables.
  • The main character in the novel embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
  • The main objective of the project is to reduce carbon emissions.
  • The main highway was closed due to a traffic accident.
  • The main idea of the presentation was to emphasize the importance of teamwork.
  • His main concern was the well-being of his family.
  • The main problem with the proposal is its lack of feasibility.

Origin of MAIN

The word main has its origins in Old English and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic language. Here is a breakdown of its etymology:

  • Old English: In Old English, “mǣgen” or “mǣne” was used, meaning “strength” or “power.”
  • Proto-Germanic: The Old English word can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word “*mainag-” or “*magan,” which also carried the sense of strength, might, or power.
  • Proto-Indo-European: The Proto-Germanic root is derived from the Proto-Indo-European “*meǵʰ-” or “*magʰ-“, which denotes concepts related to strength, power, and the ability to do.

Over time, the word main evolved in Middle English, retaining its fundamental meaning of strength or principal importance. Its usage expanded to encompass various contexts where something is considered central, chief, or principal. The etymology reflects the historical development of the term across different linguistic stages.

Synonyms

  • Principal
  • Primary
  • Central
  • Key
  • Leading
  • Foremost
  • Chief
  • Major

Antonyms

  • Secondary
  • Minor
  • Auxiliary
  • Subsidiary
  • Supplementary
  • Ancillary
  • Peripheral
  • Marginal

Related

  • Primary
  • Principal
  • Chief
  • Core
  • Fundamental
  • Essential
  • Dominant
  • Crucial

🌐 🇬🇧 MAIN in other languages

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