Add is a commonly used word in the English language, often used in mathematical contexts, but it also has other meanings. It is a verb that means to join or combine two or more things, to increase the quantity or number of something, or to include something as part of a larger whole. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of add, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, add means “to join or unite so as to bring about an increase or improvement.” It can also mean “to say or write further” or “to perform arithmetic operations.” In mathematical terms, add means to combine two or more numbers to find their sum.
Origin
The word add comes from the Latin word “addere,” which means “to give more.” It was first used in Middle English in the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, add is defined as “to combine two or more numbers or quantities to find their total.” The Cambridge English Dictionary defines it as “to put something with something else to increase the number or amount or to make it more important.” The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “to join or combine two or more things together.”
Associations
Add is often associated with mathematics and arithmetic operations, but it can also be used in other contexts. For example, in cooking, adding ingredients means combining different elements to create a dish. In business, adding value means increasing the worth or usefulness of a product or service.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for add include increase, augment, supplement, and append.
Antonyms
Antonyms for add include subtract, deduct, decrease, and reduce.
The same root words
Words with the same root as add include addition, additive, and additional.
Example Sentences
- Can you add the numbers together to find the sum?.
- I’m going to add some salt to the soup to enhance the flavor.
- The company is planning to add new features to their product to make it more competitive.
- She added her own opinion to the discussion.
- We need to add more staff to handle the increased workload.