Mend: meaning, definitions and examples

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mend

[mend ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

to repair

To repair something that is broken or damaged, especially clothes or machinery. It involves fixing the damage and making it whole or functional again.

Synonyms

fix, fix up, patch up, repair, restore.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mend	Mend is typically used for fixing something that is broken or damaged, especially when it comes to clothes or small items. She needs to mend the tear in her dress. The cobbler mended my old shoes.
repair	Repair is a more formal term used for restoring something to its original or functional state, often used in technical contexts. The mechanic repaired my car. The clock needs to be repaired.
fix	Fix is a general term used in everyday language for correcting or repairing anything that is broken or not working properly. Can you fix my computer? They fixed the broken window.
restore	Restore is used when something is returned to its former glory, condition, or a previous state, often involving significant effort and time. They restored the ancient painting. The old building was restored to its original beauty.
patch up	Patch up is often used for making temporary or minor repairs, or improving relationships after conflicts. He patched up the leak in the roof. They managed to patch up their friendship after the argument.
fix up	Fix up is often used for making improvements or renovations to something, especially places or homes. We plan to fix up the kitchen this summer. They fixed up the old house before selling it.

Examples of usage

He mended the tear in his shirt.
She mended the broken toy.
The mechanic mended the car engine.
The tailor mended the ripped dress.
We need to mend the fence in the backyard.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

a repair

A repair or improvement made to something that is broken or damaged. It refers to the act of fixing or restoring an item to its original condition.

Synonyms

fix, fix up, patch up, repair, restoration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mend	Used mostly for fixing clothes or small items. It suggests simple repairs to bring something back to a functional state. She mended the tear in her dress. I need to mend my old shoes.
repair	Formal term for fixing something that is broken or damaged. Often used in technical or professional contexts. The mechanic will repair the car. It took a week to repair the damage after the storm.
fix	A versatile term for repairing a wide variety of objects, situations, or problems, from broken items to resolving issues. Can you fix my computer? We need to fix the leaky faucet.
restoration	Implies bringing something back to its original state, often used for old, historical, or valuable items. The museum began the restoration of the ancient painting. The restoration of the vintage car took several years.
patch up	Usually refers to a temporary or quick repair, and can also mean healing or mending relationships. They patched up the hole in the wall. We need to patch up our differences.
fix up	Commonly used to describe making something look better or improving its condition. Often implies a more detailed or thorough process than just 'fix'. They fixed up the old house before selling it. I'm going to fix up the garden for the summer.

Examples of usage

The mending of the roof was necessary after the storm.
She did a neat mend on the torn curtains.
The mends on the old vase made it look as good as new.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word 'mendre' which means 'to bring back to a better state.'
The root can be traced back to the Latin 'mendicare,' meaning to beg or ask for help, indicating repair or recovery.
Related to the word 'amend,' showing a connection between fixing something and improving it.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, the act of mending represents not just repair, but reconciliation and healing, especially in relationships.
Japanese culture celebrates the art of kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with lacquer dusted with gold, symbolizing the beauty in repair.
In literature, characters often embark on journeys of mending relationships, showcasing personal growth and redemption.

Psychology

Psychological studies suggest that mending relationships can provide emotional benefits, reducing feelings of loneliness and boosting happiness.
Practicing forgiveness is often a form of mending, which can lead to improved mental health and emotional well-being.
The act of mending one's feelings after a conflict can significantly enhance personal resilience and social skills.

Practical Applications

Mending clothes is a sustainable practice that reduces waste and saves money, aligning with growing eco-conscious trends.
In DIY culture, mending tools and techniques are essential skills for those looking to live a more self-sufficient and economical lifestyle.
The emergence of repair cafés promotes community engagement and skills sharing, emphasizing the cultural importance of mending over disposing.

Arts and Crafts

Mending in textile art has led to the rise of 'visible mending,' where flaws are highlighted through creative stitching designs.
Sashiko, a traditional Japanese technique, started as a practical mending method and has evolved into an art form celebrated worldwide.
Mending is also a recurring theme in many artistic expressions, symbolizing the restoration of integrity or the celebration of imperfection.

Translations

Translations of the word "mend" in other languages:

🇵🇹 consertar

🇮🇳 मरम्मत करना (marammat karna)

🇩🇪 reparieren

🇮🇩 memperbaiki

🇺🇦 лагодити

🇵🇱 naprawiać

🇯🇵 修理する (shūri suru)

🇫🇷 réparer

🇪🇸 reparar

🇹🇷 tamir etmek

🇰🇷 수리하다 (suri hada)

🇸🇦 إصلاح (islah)

🇨🇿 opravit

🇸🇰 opraviť

🇨🇳 修补 (xiūbǔ)

🇸🇮 popraviti

🇮🇸 laga

🇰🇿 жөндеу (zhöndeu)

🇬🇪 შეკეთება (sheketeba)

🇦🇿 təmir etmək

🇲🇽 reparar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,382, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14379 cruising
14380 composure
14381 ail
14382 mend
14383 reclaim
14384 crescent
14385 unbalanced
...