mete
3 synonyms for mete, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To mete out: to deal out or distribute something, especially punishment or reward.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use mete
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
mete out punishment
mete out justice
Etymology
From Old English metan ("to measure, mark off"), related to modern German messen ("to measure").
Full origin of mete →Frequently asked questions
What does “mete” mean?
The word “mete” means to mete out: to deal out or distribute something, especially punishment or reward. In plain terms, to hand out or distribute something, almost always used in the phrase "mete out" and almost always about punishment.
How do you pronounce “mete”?
“Mete” is pronounced meet (/miːt/ in IPA).
How do you use “mete” in a sentence?
Here is “mete” used in a sentence: “The judge meted out a harsh sentence for the crime.”
What part of speech is “mete”?
“Mete” is a verb.
Where does the word “mete” come from?
The word “mete” comes from Old English. From Old English metan ("to measure, mark off"), related to modern German messen ("to measure").
