WordGarden.iomesh
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈɛʃ/
US
- /ˈmɛʃ/
Meanings
Noun
an open fabric, screen, or net made of interlaced strands or wire
a digital structure made of interconnected nodes or polygons, as in networking or 3D graphics
Verb
to fit, connect, or work together smoothly
Beyond the definition
Think of a fishing net or a window screen: that is the basic idea. A mesh is something made of many connected strands or wires, with small spaces between them. It can be literal, like the screen on your window or a bag that holds fruit, or more figurative, like the web of relationships in a community. You might describe a network of roads as a mesh linking different towns, or say that ideas mesh when they come together well.
The word comes from an Old English word meaning "net," and that image is still at its heart. If things mesh well, they fit together smoothly. A good team meshes well, with each person working well with the others. Sometimes the word refers to the material itself, like a mesh bag used for fruit or laundry.
The word "mesh" describes an interconnected network or structure formed by interlacing strands, wires, or elements. It evokes the image of something woven together, creating a unified whole while still allowing space and connection between parts.
Originally referring to the openings in a net (think fishing nets or sieves), "mesh" has expanded to describe various forms of interconnection. A literal mesh might be the wire screen protecting your windows from insects or the breathable fabric used in athletic clothing. Chainmail, the armor worn by knights, is a classic example of a protective mesh made of interlocking metal rings.
However, "mesh" often goes beyond physical materials. We use it to describe complex systems where elements are linked and interdependent. A city's transportation system can be described as a "mesh" of roads, trains, and buses. Similarly, social networks represent a mesh of relationships between people. Even abstract concepts can mesh—ideas that combine seamlessly to create something new.
To say things "mesh well" means they fit together harmoniously, working effectively as a unit. A successful team meshes well when each member's skills complement the others. Conversely, if two plans don't mesh, it means they clash or are incompatible. Whether you're talking about physical structures, complex systems, or harmonious relationships, "mesh" signifies interconnectedness and the way components fit together to create a larger whole.
Examples
- 1
Window screen
The window screen is made of fine mesh to keep mosquitoes out.
- 2
Produce bag
She put the oranges in a mesh bag.
- 3
Machinery
The gears weren't meshing properly, so the machine made a loud noise.
- 4
Scheduling
Our schedules don't mesh very well, so it's hard to find a time to meet.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Team planning
His ideas meshed with the team's plan from the start.
- Patternmesh with + person/plan/idea
fit or work well together
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- meshnounverb
Forms
- meshespluralnounverb
- meshedpast tenseverbnoun
- meshing-ing formverbnoun