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Definitions

main

[meyn] / meɪn /
ADJECTIVE
principal, predominant
Synonyms
STRONGEST
central essential fundamental leading major particular preeminent primary prime special vital
STRONG
capital cardinal chief head necessary premier star
WEAK
controlling critical crucial foremost outstanding paramount prevailing stellar supreme
Antonyms
STRONGEST
auxiliary common inessential inferior minor ordinary secondary subordinate trivial unimportant usual
STRONG
unnecessary
WEAK
extra insignificant nonessential
ADJECTIVE
absolute, utter
Synonyms
STRONGEST
entire
STRONG
brute mere simple utmost
WEAK
direct downright only pure sheer undisguised
Antonyms
WEAK
auxiliary extra inessential insignificant minor nonessential secondary subordinate unimportant unnecessary
NOUN
pipe for system
Synonyms
STRONG
cable channel conduit duct line trough trunk

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Lee wanted the comforts available to Monte Vista Point members to feel “almost surreal,” but also for his main characters to operate just outside of that.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

This strongly suggests that the system's main role is to control cell structure rather than manage DNA distribution.

From Science Daily • Apr. 20, 2026

Her main job is working as a civil servant and she fits in waitressing and baking before or after work, or on her days off.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

KeyBanc analysts, in a note on Sunday, said the new beverages would likely be a main focus for investors.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

After that I followed her to the main elevator bank.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

Vocabulary lists containing main

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Vocabulary of the Common Core

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Common Core Grade 5, List 5

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!