mainline
[ meyn-lahyn, -lahyn ]
/ ˈmeɪnˌlaɪn, -ˈlaɪn /
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verb (used without object), main·lined, main·lin·ing.Slang.
to inject a narcotic, especially heroin, directly into a vein.
to use or enjoy something without restriction: to mainline on TV movies.
verb (used with object), main·lined, main·lin·ing.Slang.
to inject (a narcotic, especially heroin) directly into a vein.
to use, enjoy, or imbibe (something) without restriction: mainlining coffee all day long.
adjective
having a principal, established, or widely accepted position; major; mainstream: the membership of mainline churches.
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Origin of mainline
1935–40, Americanism; v., adj. use of main line
Definition for mainline (2 of 3)
main line
noun
a principal line or route of a railroad, as contrasted with a branch or secondary one.
a principal highway.
Slang.
- a prominent and readily accessible vein of the body that may be used for a narcotic's injection.
- the act of mainlining.
Origin of main line
First recorded in 1835–45
Definition for mainline (3 of 3)
Main Line
noun
a fashionable residential district west of Philadelphia.
any fashionable district where socially prominent people live.
OTHER WORDS FROM Main Line
Main-Line, adjectiveMain-Liner, nounDictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
Example sentences from the Web for mainline
Gardiner and company understand that this theatrically undernourished moment is one in which an audience wants to mainline old favorites.
Sondheim revue provides exhilarating warmth in cold, trying times|Peter Marks|February 1, 2021|Washington PostIt speaks to how much “Assassin’s Creed” has evolved and changed over its 13-year history and 12 mainline games.
Over the course of those 20 years, four mainline games, and dozens of spinoffs, The Sims has charmed millions of fans, made more than $5 billion, and even changed lives.
'It Nearly Brings Me to Tears.' 20 Years On, The Sims' Diehard Fans Could Never Let Go|Matthew Gault|March 16, 2020|TimeOr was he "mainlining the secret truth of the universe" again?
British Dictionary definitions for mainline
main line
noun
railways
- the trunk route between two points, usually fed by branch lines
- (as modifier)a main-line station
US a main road
verb mainline
(intr) slang to inject a drug into a vein
adjective mainline
having an important position, esp having responsibility for the main areas of activity
Derived forms of main line
mainliner, nounCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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