- Mate
- Mate Mate, n. [Perhaps for older make a companion; cf. also
OD. maet companion, mate, D. maat. Cf. {Make} a companion,
{Match} a mate.]
1. One who customarily associates with another; a companion;
an associate; any object which is associated or combined
with a similar object.
[1913 Webster]
2. Hence, specifically, a husband or wife; and among the lower animals, one of a pair associated for propagation and the care of their young. [1913 Webster]
3. A suitable companion; a match; an equal. [1913 Webster]
Ye knew me once no mate For you; there sitting where you durst not soar. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
4. (Naut.) An officer in a merchant vessel ranking next below the captain. If there are more than one bearing the title, they are called, respectively, first mate, second mate, third mate, etc. In the navy, a subordinate officer or assistant; as, master's mate; surgeon's mate. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
