very

Definitions

1. adverb

   To a great degree.

   Examples

   • That dress is very you.
   • Not very many of them were damaged.
2. adverb

   True and in agreement with the facts.

   Examples

   • This is the very truth, and nothing but the truth.
   • Her account of the accident was very and accurate.
   ≈truly≈actually≈authentically
3. adverb

   Used to stress that nothing is better or more special.

   Examples

   • He was the very best runner there.
   • This is my very own treehouse.
4. adjective

   True or real.

   Examples

   • She hated him with the fierce hatred of a very woman.
   • These words are the very blood and bone of the language.
5. adjective

   Exactly the same.

   Examples

   • He proposed in the same restaurant, at the very table where they first met.
   • That's the very tool that I need.
   ≈selfsame≈ilk≈wicked
6. adjective

   Used to stress that something is only a small thing.

   Examples

   • The very idea of climbing the ladder makes me sweat.
   • The very thought of it makes me laugh!
   ≈bare≈simple≈only≈alone≈bare +5 more