Word Frequency
main 1
(meɪn)
adjective (prenominal)
1.
chief or principal in rank, importance, size, etc
2.
sheer or utmost (esp in the phrase by main force)
3. nautical
of, relating to, or denoting any gear, such as a stay or sail, belonging to the mainmast
4. obsolete
significant or important
noun
5.
a principal pipe, conduit, duct, or line in a system used to distribute water, electricity, etc
6. (plural)
a.
the main distribution network for water, gas, or electricity
b.
(as modifier)
mains voltage
7.
the chief or most important part or consideration
8.
great strength or force (now chiefly in the phrase (with) might and main)
9. literary
the open ocean
10. archaic short for Spanish Main
11. archaic short for mainland
12. in the main
Word origin
C13: from Old English mægen strength