Deal

Definition

Deal is a noun and verb with various meanings. As a noun, it refers to an agreement or arrangement, often in a business context. As a verb, it means to distribute or manage something, or to handle a situation or person.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /diːl/
• Respelling: DEEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /diːl/
• Respelling: DEEL

Etymology

The word "deal" originates from the Old English "dælan," meaning "to divide or distribute," which is related to Old High German "teilen" (to divide). Its meanings evolved to encompass distribution, arrangement, and business agreements.

Derivatives

• Dealer (noun)
• Dealing (noun)
• Dealt (verb)
• Overdeal (verb)
• Ideals (noun - derived metaphorically)

Synonyms

• Agreement
• Bargain
• Arrangement

Antonyms

• Disagreement
• Refusal
• Mismanagement

Usage

The term "deal" is used to refer to agreements in various contexts, such as "They made a business deal." As a verb, it applies to the act of distributing or managing, like "He deals cards in the game."

Related Terms

• Transaction: An exchange or agreement involving trade or transfer.
• Bargain: An agreement or negotiation, often involving favorable terms.
• Negotiation: The process of discussing terms to reach an agreement.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An arrangement or agreement, especially in business: Refers to a settled arrangement, often with financial or legal implications.
  • Example: "They struck a deal to merge the companies."
• A specified quantity or amount: Used to describe a certain quantity, particularly in informal contexts.
  • Example: "She has a great deal of knowledge in this field."

Verb

• To distribute cards in a game: Refers to giving out cards to players during a game.
  • Example: "He shuffled and dealt the cards to the players."
• To manage or handle a situation or person: Describes handling or managing a task, issue, or individual.
  • Example: "She is known for how well she deals with complex problems."