noun Uncommon

mains

maynz

Mains (noun) means the main electrical power supply connected to the public grid. Example: “The freezer runs off the mains, not a battery.”

noun

The main electrical power supply connected to the public grid.

"The freezer runs off the mains, not a battery."

The main course of a meal (British usage).

"For mains, I'll have the roast chicken."

How to use mains

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe public electricity/gas/water supply, or (in the UK) the main dish of a meal.

UK vs US

Calling the main course of a meal "mains" is standard in British English; Americans usually just say "main course" or "entrée."

Common pairings

mains electricity mains water order mains

Word forms

mains plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The freezer runs off the _____, not a battery.

Etymology

Related to the plural of main, and to "manse."

Rhymes for mains

pains rains brains grains Plains Stains remains curtains

See all rhymes for mains →

Frequently asked questions

What does “mains” mean?

The word “mains” means the main electrical power supply connected to the public grid. In plain terms, the public electricity/gas/water supply, or (in the UK) the main dish of a meal.

How do you pronounce “mains”?

“Mains” is pronounced maynz (/meɪnz/ in IPA).

How do you use “mains” in a sentence?

Here is “mains” used in a sentence: “The freezer runs off the mains, not a battery.”

What part of speech is “mains”?

“Mains” is a noun.

Is “mains” a common word?

“Mains” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “mains” have?

“Mains” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the main electrical power supply connected to the public grid.