Mile

Definition

Mile is a noun that refers to a unit of distance commonly used in the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries that do not use the metric system. One mile is equal to 5,280 feet or approximately 1.609 kilometers. The term can also be used metaphorically to indicate a large distance or extent.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /maɪl/
• Respelling: MYL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /maɪl/
• Respelling: MYL

Etymology

The word "mile" originates from the Latin "mille passus," meaning "thousand paces." The term was adopted into Old English as "mil" through Old High German "mīla" and Old Norse "míl," retaining its meaning of a specific distance.

Derivatives

• Mileage (noun)
• Miler (noun)
• Milepost (noun)
• Milesian (adjective)
• Milestone (noun)

Synonyms

• Distance
• League (archaic)
• Kilometer (metric equivalent)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "mile" is frequently used to measure long distances in everyday contexts and official road signs. For example, "The city is 10 miles away." It is also used metaphorically to express effort or extent, such as "She went the extra mile to help her team."

Related Terms

• Kilometer: A metric unit of distance equal to 1,000 meters.
• Yard: A unit of length equal to 3 feet or 36 inches.
• League: An older unit of measurement, approximately 3 miles.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A unit of length equal to 5,280 feet (1.609 kilometers): Refers to a standard measure of distance in non-metric systems.
  • Example: "The marathon was 26.2 miles long."
• Used metaphorically to describe a great extent or effort: Indicates going beyond what is expected or required.
  • Example: "He is willing to go the extra mile for his family."