meat

/miːt/
noun★Beginner
◆ What It Really Means
The essential or most important part of something
Literal Meaning
The flesh of animals used as food
Literal Breakdown
meatFlesh of animals used as food
◇ Mental Image
The idea of something being as substantial and important as animal flesh, which is a primary source of nutrition and sustenance.
◈ When to Use
During a business meeting, someone might say, 'Let's get to the meat of the discussion,' meaning they want to focus on the most important points.
◉ Cultural Note
The metaphorical use of 'meat' to refer to the core or most important part of something is common in English and reflects the cultural significance of meat as a primary source of sustenance.
formal

The flesh of animals used as food

She bought some meat from the butcher.

She bought some meat from the butcher.

💡

Refers to animal flesh consumed as food, typically from mammals, birds, or fish.

informal

The essential or most important part of something

The meat of the matter is that we need to cut costs.

The meat of the matter is that we need to cut costs.

💡

Used metaphorically to refer to the core or most significant aspect of an issue.

Collocations

meat and potatoesThe most important or basic part of somethingmeat marketA place or situation where people are evaluated based on their physical appearance or potential as a romantic partnermeat grinderA situation or process that is very difficult or destructive

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

meat and potatoesphrase
The most important or basic part of something
meat marketphrase
A place or situation where people are evaluated based on their physical appearance or potential as a romantic partner
meat grinderphrase
A situation or process that is very difficult or destructive

💡Pro Tip

Metaphorical Usage

Be aware that 'meat' can be used metaphorically to refer to the core or most important part of something, as in 'the meat of the matter'.

⚡Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

In formal contexts, 'meat' refers specifically to animal flesh. In informal contexts, it can be used metaphorically.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'mete', from Old English 'mēte', meaning 'food' or 'provision'. Related to Old Norse 'mátr' and Old High German 'māz'.

📝Usage Notes

In formal contexts, 'meat' refers specifically to animal flesh. In informal contexts, it can be used metaphorically to refer to the core or most important part of something.

Word Breakdown

meat
Flesh of animals used as food
root
English Dictionary