means
/miːnz
/plural noun
1 [treated as singular or plural] (often means of/to do something) An action or system by which a result is achieved; a method: technology seen as a means to bring about emancipation resolving disputes by peaceful means...
- When the objective is recognized, a wide variety of well known techniques may be used as transitional or enduring means of achieving it.
- The method provides a means of identifying and describing the ways the viewers fill the gaps in the text.
- Having a series of plant analysis results provides a means of evaluating these influences.
Synonyms
method, way, manner, mode, measure, fashion, process, procedure, technique, expedient, agency, medium, instrument, mechanism, channel, vehicle, avenue, course
2Financial resources; income: a woman of modest but independent means...
- That way you will have the financial means whatever bill comes your way!
- She has also received computers and 14 computer training facilities for families without the means.
Synonyms
money, resources, capital, income, finance, funds, cash, the wherewithal, assets
informal dough, bread, dibs, moolah, shekels, gelt, loot, oof, scratch, splosh
British informal dosh, brass, lolly, spondulicks, wonga, ackers
North American informal dineros, jack, mazuma
Australian/New Zealand informal Oscar
2.1Substantial resources; wealth: a man of means...
- You have had the means under your control for quite some time now.
Synonyms
wealth, riches, affluence, substance, fortune, property, money, capital, deep pockets
Phrases
beyond (or within) one's means
by all means
by any means
by means of
by no means
means of grace
a means to an end
Origin
Late Middle English: plural of mean3, the early sense being 'intermediary'.