WordGarden.iodouble
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈʌbəl/
US
- /ˈdəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
twice as much, twice as many, or made for two
Verb
to make or become twice as much or as many
to bend or fold something over on itself
Noun
a person who looks like or substitutes for another person
an alcoholic drink with twice the usual measure
a baseball hit that lets the batter reach second base
Beyond the definition
The word "double" seems simple at first. Most often, it means two or twice as much—like a double scoop of ice cream or a double feature at the movies, where you get two films. But "double" can be used in a few different ways.
It can describe something with two parts, like a double door or a double-breasted coat. It can also mean to make something twice as much: "If you double the recipe, you'll have enough cookies for everyone." Sometimes, a "double" is a person who takes someone else's place or looks very similar, such as a stunt double in a movie. So when you hear "double," think about whether it means amount, shape, or a copy of someone or something.
The word "double" carries a surprising amount of meaning for such a simple term. At its core, "double" means two or twice as much. You might ask for a "double espresso" to start your morning or notice a "double rainbow" in the sky.
But "double" is not limited to simple multiplication. It can describe things that consist of two parts or elements. A "double door" has two panels, a "double bed" is made for two people, and a "double entendre" is a phrase with two meanings.
The verb form, "to double," means to multiply by two: "If sales double next quarter, we'll be in great shape." However, it can also mean to bend or fold over, like "He doubled over with laughter."
Interestingly, "double" can also refer to a person who stands in for another, such as a stunt double performing dangerous scenes or a body double used for specific shots. This usage shows the idea of copying or replacing someone.
So, whether you're counting, describing something with two parts, multiplying an amount, or talking about a look-alike, "double" is a useful word built around the idea of two. It is a simple word, but it reaches into many everyday situations.
Examples
- 1
Hotel room
We booked a double room for the weekend.
- 2
Doors
The hall has heavy double doors at the entrance.
- 3
Quantity
Use double the usual amount of rice if everyone is staying for dinner.
- 4
Rent comparison
My rent is double what it was five years ago.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sales growth
Online sales doubled in December.
- 6
Extra effort
We'll have to double our efforts to meet the deadline.
- 7
Secondary use
This guest room doubles as my home office.
- Patterndouble as + role/use
have a second use as that thing
- 8
Surprise reaction
I did a double take when I saw her on the front page.
- Phrasedo a double take
look again because you are surprised
See also
Similar
- twofold
- twice as much
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- double the amount
- double digits
- double doors
- double meaning
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- doublenounverbadjectiveadverb
Forms
- doubledpast tenseverbnounadjective
- doublespluralnounverbadjective
- doubling-ing formverbnounadjective