double

The word “double” means twice the usual size, amount, or number, or consisting of two matching parts. In plain terms, something twice as much, or a copy/lookalike of someone or something.

“Double” is pronounced DUHB-uhl (/ˈdʌb.əl/ in IPA).

Here is “double” used in a sentence: “We ordered a double espresso to stay awake for the drive.”

Words with a similar meaning to “double” include twin and twofold.

The opposite of “double” — its antonyms — are half, halve and bisect.

Depending on how it is used, “double” can be an adjective, a verb and a noun.

The word “double” comes from Latin. From Old French doble, ultimately from Latin duplus, "twofold.".

“Double” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

Double usually means twice as much or two of the same thing, as in a double portion or double doors. Dual means having two parts, roles or aspects, as in dual nationality or dual controls. Double emphasises quantity or repetition; dual emphasises a twofold nature. They are related but not interchangeable.

The most common opposite is single, meaning one rather than two, as with a single room versus a double. When double refers to an amount, the opposite is half, since doubling and halving reverse each other. Both single and half work depending on whether you mean number or quantity.

A double room sleeps two people, a double whisky is twice the standard measure, and double doors are a matching pair. 'Double' can also describe a folded or twofold thing, like a double layer of fabric. In each case it signals either twice the amount or two matching parts.