must

Definitions

1. verb

   Used to say something is needed or required.

   Examples

   • You must arrive in class on time.
   • This handle must be turned all the way.
2. verb

   Used to say you are sure about something that happened.

   Examples

   • It has rained all day, so it must be wet outside.
   • You must have lost it again.
3. verb

   Used to say something is very likely true.

   Examples

   • The children must be asleep by now.
   • There is the doorbell. It must be Dad.
4. noun

   Something that you need to have or do.

   Examples

   • If you are walking all day, a map is a must.
   • Good shoes are a must for this hike.
   ≈imperative≈necessity≠no-no
5. verb

   To make something smell old and damp.

   Examples

   • Damp weather can must the grain.
   • The old barn began to must the stored hay.
6. verb

   To become old and damp-smelling.

   Examples

   • The old books began to must in the damp cellar.
   • Leftover bread will must quickly in humid weather.
7. noun

   An old, damp smell.

   Examples

   • The must in the basement was strong.
   • A faint must clung to the old curtains.
8. noun

   A thing that has an old, damp smell.

   Examples

   • The closet was full of musts that needed airing.
   • She threw out the old rugs, full of must.
9. noun

   Fresh grape juice that is turning into wine.

   Examples

   • The winery pressed the grapes and left the must to ferment.
   • The must was kept in large vats.
10. noun

    A short time when a male elephant becomes aggressive.

    Examples

    • No animal is as dangerous as an elephant in must.
    • Handlers keep far from bull elephants in must.