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
The meaner the Pistons get, the more their record improves.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 4, 2026
In turn, increased efficiency allows them to be meaner toward prospective employees.
From MarketWatch ● Jan. 7, 2026
The abundance of art depicting him presents a rugged, scowling figure who resembles a meaner version of Acacius.
From Salon ● Dec. 7, 2024
Bigger than a whale, meaner than any shark.
From "The Reader" by Traci Chee
