Mold: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to refer to a hollow container used to shape a material, or a negative impression of an object. It can also refer to a growth of fungi in moist conditions.

• She poured the jelly into the mold to set
• The bread was covered in mold after being left out for days

British English spelling of 'mold' with the same meanings. It is also used to describe forming or shaping something or someone.

• She poured the jelly into the mould to set
• The bread was covered in mould after being left out for days

Used to describe the process of shaping an object by pouring liquid material into a mold then allowing it to harden. The word can also refer to the collective actors in a play or film.

• The statue was cast in bronze
• The cast of the play performed exceptionally well

Refers to a pattern or guide used as a reference to create something consistently, often used in design, manufacturing, or documentation.

• He used a template to cut out the shapes from the fabric
• The report followed a standard template provided by the company

Mold refers to a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. It is commonly used to describe unwanted fungal growth in homes or buildings.

• We need to clean the bathroom tiles to remove the mold.
• The old bread had mold growing on it.

Fungus is a general term used to describe a wide variety of organisms, including molds, yeasts, and mushrooms. It can be used in both scientific and everyday contexts.

• Athlete's foot is caused by a type of fungus.
• The forest floor was full of different kinds of fungus.

Mildew refers specifically to certain kinds of mold or fungus, typically with a flat growth pattern. It often appears on plants, damp fabrics, or in bathrooms.

• The basement had a strong smell of mildew.
• She noticed mildew on the shower curtain.

Mould is the British English spelling of the word 'mold' and is used in the same contexts to describe unwanted fungal growth.

• The landlord was responsible for removing the mould from the walls.
• She threw away the mouldy cheese.

This word is often used when talking about creating something by pouring a liquid into a hollow container to give it a specific form. It can also refer to influencing the development of someone's character or behavior over time. Used with a slight negative connotation when talking about controlling someone's personality.

• She poured the chocolate into the mold to make candies.
• Teachers help mold children's minds.

This word can be used in a broad sense when referring to giving structure to something, whether it's physical or abstract. It often implies the process of influencing or determining the development of something.

• She shaped the dough into small rolls.
• His experiences shaped his outlook on life.

This word is used generally when you are giving shape to something or creating an object or idea. It can also mean completing an official document.

• He used clay to form a statue.
• Please fill out this form with your personal details.

This word is used when talking about carving or shaping a solid material like stone, wood, or clay into a work of art. It implies a more artistic or detailed activity.

• She sculpted a beautiful figure out of marble.
• He is known for sculpting intricate wooden statues.