IPA: /meɪt/
KK: /meɪt/
To join with another for reproduction or to form a pair, often used in the context of animals or people getting married.
The birds mate during the spring to raise their young.
Past: mated
Past Participle: mated
A person who is a close friend or associate, or someone with whom you share living space or a romantic relationship.
He is my best mate from college.
To join or pair closely, often used in the context of animals breeding or forming a close relationship.
The farmer decided to mate the two horses to produce a strong foal.
Past: mated
Past Participle: mated
**Mate** → The word 'mate' originates from Old English 'gemetta', meaning a companion or partner. It refers to someone with whom one shares a close relationship or partnership.
Think of 'gemetta' as a companion or partner, which helps you remember that 'mate' means a close friend or partner.