IPA: //ˈmeɪnlaɪn//
KK: /meɪnlaɪn/
Referring to something that is part of a major or established group, often recognized as traditional or conventional.
The mainline churches have a significant influence on community values.
To inject a drug directly into a vein.
He decided to mainline the drug for a quicker effect.
Past: mainlined
Past Participle: mainlined
To inject a substance, especially a drug, directly into a large vein in the body.
He decided to mainline the drug for a quicker effect.
Past: mainlined
Past Participle: mainlined
Mainline → The word is formed from "main" (from Old French *main*, meaning principal or chief) and "line" (from Latin *linea*, meaning a line or string). Together, these parts convey the idea of a principal or chief line, often referring to a primary route or channel.
Think of 'main' as the principal part and 'line' as a path or route — together, they help you remember that 'mainline' refers to the primary route or channel.