level

Definitions

1. adjective

   Flat, with no part higher than another.

   Examples

   • This table is not quite level, so the marble rolls off.
   • The road was smooth and level.
   ≈flush
2. adjective

   At the same height as something else.

   Examples

   • We hung the picture so it was level with the window.
   • The new room was built level with the old floor.
3. adjective

   Staying the same in rate or amount.

   Examples

   • His pulse stayed level for twelve hours.
   • The signal stayed level during the whole test.
4. adjective

   Staying the same in loudness.

   Examples

   • His voice stayed level during the whole talk.
   • The music stayed at a level volume all night.
5. adjective

   Calm and steady.

   Examples

   • He kept a level head under stress.
   • She gave him a level look and said nothing.
6. adjective

   Equal to another in position or score.

   Examples

   • The two teams are level on eleven points.
   • After the goal, the score was level.
7. adjective

   Clear, direct and easy to follow.

   Examples

   • She gave a level account of what had happened.
   • He gave a plain, level answer.
8. adjective

   Fair, balanced and sensible.

   Examples

   • She has a level head in a crisis.
   • He gave the plan a level and fair review.
9. adjective

   Staying at the same pitch, not going up or down.

   Examples

   • He answered in a level voice and showed no emotion.
   • The speaker kept a level tone throughout.
10. adjective

    Straight across, not tilted, compared with the pull of gravity.

    Examples

    • A spirit level shows whether a shelf is level.
    • Water in a still pond lies level.