Mess

Definition

Mess is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a state of disorder, untidiness, or confusion. It can also denote a group of people eating together, often in a military context. As a verb, it means to create disorder or to interfere with something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɛs/
• Respelling: mess

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /mɛs/
• Respelling: mess

Etymology

The word "mess" originates from Old French "mes," meaning "portion of food" or "meal," derived from Latin "missus," meaning "course at a meal." Over time, its meaning broadened to refer to disorder or confusion, reflecting the aftermath of disorganized meals or gatherings.

Derivatives

• Messy (adjective)
• Messiness (noun)
• Messmate (noun)
• Mess hall (noun)
• Unmessy (adjective, informal)

Synonyms

• Disorder
• Chaos
• Clutter

Antonyms

• Order
• Tidiness
• Organization

Usage

The term "mess" is used in both literal and figurative contexts. Examples include "The room was in a mess after the party," and "Don’t mess with my plans."

Related Terms

• Disarray: A state of disorganization.
• Tangle: A confused mass of something.
• Confusion: A lack of clarity or order.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A state of disorder or untidiness: Refers to an area or situation that is not organized or clean.
  • Example: "The kids left the living room in a complete mess."
• A group of people eating together: Often used in military or formal dining contexts.
  • Example: "The officers dined in the mess hall."

Verb

• To create disorder: Refers to making something untidy or disorganized.
  • Example: "Don’t mess up the clean room."
• To interfere with or disrupt something: Refers to causing trouble or problems.
  • Example: "He warned them not to mess with the equipment."