Case

Definition

Case is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a container, an instance of something, or a situation, particularly in legal or medical contexts. As a verb, it means to cover or protect something or to investigate or observe with intent.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keɪs/
• Respelling: KAYS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keɪs/
• Respelling: KAYS

Etymology

The word "case" originates from the Latin "casus," meaning "occurrence" or "chance." It entered Middle English via Old French, carrying the sense of an event or occurrence, as well as the physical container meaning.

Derivatives

• Casing (noun)
• Casework (noun)
• Casein (noun)
• Caseless (adjective)
• Casebook (noun)

Synonyms

• Instance
• Situation
• Container

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "case" is widely used in various contexts, such as law, medicine, grammar, and storage. For example, "The lawyer worked on a difficult case," or "Please put your glasses in their case."

Related Terms

• Instance: An occurrence of something.
• Example: A specific illustration or situation.
• Container: An object that holds or stores items.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A container or protective covering: Refers to an object designed to hold or protect other items.
  • Example: "He stored his tools in a sturdy case."
• An instance or occurrence of something: Describes a particular example or situation.
  • Example: "In this case, we should follow the original plan."
• A legal or medical situation requiring action or analysis: Commonly used to refer to situations in fields like law or medicine.
  • Example: "The detective investigated the murder case thoroughly."

Verb

• To cover or surround with a protective layer: Used when applying a protective material or cover.
  • Example: "They cased the wires to protect them."
• To observe or investigate something carefully: Often used to describe the act of examining something with intent.
  • Example: "The thief cased the shop before the robbery."