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size¹

(sīz)

1. The physical dimensions, proportions, magnitude, or extent of an object.

2. Any of a series of graduated categories of dimension whereby manufactured articles, such as shoes and clothing, are classified.

a. Considerable extent, amount, or dimensions: a debt of enormous size.

b. Relative amount or number, as of population or contents: What size is Cleveland?

4. Character, value, or status with reference to relative importance or the capacity to meet given requirements: Try this proposal on for size.

5. The actual state of affairs: That's about the size of the situation.

tr.v. sized, siz·ing, siz·es

1. To arrange, classify, or distribute according to size.

2. To make, cut, or shape to a required size.

adj.

Sized. Often used in combination: bite-size appetizers; an economy-size package.

Phrasal Verb:

size up

To make an estimate, opinion, or judgment of: She sized up her opponent.

[Middle English sise, from Old French, court session, law, short for assise; see ASSIZE.]

sizer n.

size²

(sīz)

Any of several gelatinous or glutinous substances usually made from glue, wax, or clay and used as a glaze or filler for porous materials such as paper, cloth, or wall surfaces.

tr.v. sized, siz·ing, siz·es

To treat or coat with size or a similar substance.

[Middle English sise, probably from Old French, a setting; see SIZE¹.]

Indo-European & Semitic Roots Appendices

Thousands of entries in the dictionary include etymologies that trace their origins back to reconstructed proto-languages. You can obtain more information about these forms in our online appendices:

Indo-European Roots

Semitic Roots

The Indo-European appendix covers nearly half of the Indo-European roots that have left their mark on English words. A more complete treatment of Indo-European roots and the English words derived from them is available in our Dictionary of Indo-European Roots.

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