press
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for press, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To push firmly against something, or push down on a button or surface.
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 press
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French presser, "to press," from Latin pressare, based on premere, "to press."
Full origin of press →Frequently asked questions
What does “press” mean?
The word “press” means to push firmly against something, or push down on a button or surface. In plain terms, to push on something firmly, to pressure someone, or (as a noun) the news media or a machine that applies force.
How do you pronounce “press”?
“Press” is pronounced prehs (/pɹɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “press” in a sentence?
Here is “press” used in a sentence: “Press the button to start the machine.”
What part of speech is “press”?
Depending on how it is used, “press” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “press” come from?
The word “press” comes from Latin. From Old French presser, "to press," from Latin pressare, based on premere, "to press.".
Is “press” a common word?
“Press” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “press” have?
“Press” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to push firmly against something, or push down on a button or surface.
What is the difference between 'press' and 'push'?
Both involve applying force, but 'press' suggests firm, steady contact against a surface — pressing a button, pressing clothes flat. 'Push' suggests moving something away from you, often making it shift position — pushing a door open. You press to apply pressure in place; you push to make something move.
What is the difference between 'press' and 'squeeze'?
Pressing means pushing firmly against or down on something from one side, like pressing a key. Squeezing means applying pressure from two or more sides at once, pressing something inward — like squeezing a lemon or a hand. Squeeze compresses an object from around it; press pushes against its surface.
What is an example of pressing something?
You press a doorbell or a light switch to turn it on, press a key on a keyboard to type, and press the brake pedal to slow a car. You can also press clothes with an iron to flatten them. Each involves pushing firmly against a surface.