mean
verb (used with object)
to have in mind as one's purpose or intention.
meaner
-
comparativeof mean.comparative
The form of an adjective or adverb indicating a greater degree of a quality.
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.
The Financial Times's Danny Leigh dished out three stars, saying it paints a "portrait of tech rendering the young both sadder and meaner".
From BBC ● Jun. 17, 2026
In turn, increased efficiency allows them to be meaner toward prospective employees.
From MarketWatch ● Jan. 7, 2026
Photos from the summer show a much meaner and leaner Doncic than the one that ended last season.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 19, 2025
But there’s still an element of camp and goofy humor that lingers, taking away from the script’s leaner, meaner elements.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 14, 2025
She got meaner and I think it was because she didn’t like rules either.
From "Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key" by Jack Gantos
