material

Definitions

1. adjective

   Made of matter, or physical rather than mental.

   Examples

   • This metal has some interesting material properties.
   • Scientists study the material world around us.
2. adjective

   Relating to the needs and comforts of the body.

   Examples

   • The material comforts of life mattered little to him.
   • She wanted only her basic material needs.
   ≠spiritual
3. adjective

   In philosophy, relating to the physical substance of something rather than its form.

   Examples

   • The teacher explained the material cause of the change.
   • Philosophers study the material side of being.
4. adjective

   Important and likely to change the result.

   Examples

   • We found a material difference between the two plans.
   • You have made several material contributions to this project.
   ≠immaterial
5. adjective

   Concerned with money and things rather than ideas or spirit.

   Examples

   • He was interested only in the material world.
   • She cared more about material success than friendship.
6. adjective

   Full of meaning and worth.

   Examples

   • His speech was material and left a lasting impression.
   • Her essay was material, unlike her rivals' empty words.
   ≈bulky≈massive≈solid≈meaty
7. adjective

   In old-fashioned use, to an important degree.

   Examples

   • The change was material to the outcome of the trial.
   • His words were material to the case.
8. noun

   The matter that something is made from, such as wood, metal or cloth.

   Examples

   • The chair is made from a strong synthetic material.
   • They chose a light material for the tent.
   ≈raw material
9. noun

   A person who has the right qualities for a role.

   Examples

   • He is clearly boyfriend material.
   • Everyone says she is leader material.
10. noun

    Tools or supplies needed for a job or activity.

    Examples

    • The teacher handed out the art material for the project.
    • He gathered the material he needed to fix the fence.