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Mould Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mould

[mษ™สŠld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in construction

A hollow container used to give shape to molten or hot liquid material when it cools and hardens.

Synonyms

cast, form, mold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mould

Typically used in British English to describe a container used to shape a material, often in baking or pottery. Can also refer to a fungal growth on food or surfaces.

  • She used a jelly mould to create a perfect dessert.
  • There was mould growing on the bread, so we had to throw it away.
mold

The American English spelling of 'mould,' also used for shaping materials and describing fungal growth. This word can also mean to strongly influence someoneโ€™s character or personality.

  • He poured the liquid wax into the mold to make candles.
  • The leftovers in the fridge had mold on them.
  • Her experiences early in life helped to mold her into a strong leader.
cast

Often related to creating an object by pouring liquid material into a mould. Can also mean to assign roles in a play or film. Additionally, can refer to a medical cast for broken bones.

  • The artist created a bronze statue by making a cast first.
  • The director cast him as the lead in the movie.
  • She had to wear a cast for six weeks after breaking her arm.
form

Used broadly to describe shaping something into a specific visual or physical appearance. Can also refer to filling out a document or establishing a group.

  • She helped the children form clay into small animals.
  • You need to fill out this form to apply for the job.
  • They decided to form a new committee to address the issue.

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter poured the liquid metal into the mould to create the desired shape.
  • She removed the cake from the mould once it had cooled down.
  • The mould for the concrete pillar was made of steel.
  • The mould for the plastic toy was carefully designed.
  • The mould for the ceramic vase was intricately carved.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

A characteristic shape, style, or design.

Synonyms

form, pattern, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mould

Often used in a craft or manufacturing setting to describe a hollow container used to give shape to molten or hot liquid material when it cools and hardens.

  • They poured the molten metal into the mould to create the sculpture.
  • She used a silicone mould to make chocolate candies.
shape

General term for the external form, outline, or contours of an object. Used in a variety of contexts including geometry, physical appearance, and fitness.

  • The cookie cutter created a star shape.
  • She tried to get back into shape by working out regularly.
pattern

Typically refers to a repeated decorative design or a model or guide used to make things. It is also used in contexts of habits or behaviors.

  • The wallpaper had a beautiful floral pattern.
  • They noticed a pattern in his behavior over time.
form

Used to describe the visible shape or configuration of something. It can also refer to a type or variety of something.

  • The artist worked on the form of his new clay sculpture.
  • She filled out a form at the doctor's office.

Examples of usage

  • The bacteria grew in a mould that resembled a star.
  • The fungi formed a colourful mould on the bread.
  • The artist's work had a unique mould that set it apart from others.
  • The mould of the leaf was used in the botanical study.
  • The furniture had a classic mould that appealed to many.
Context #3 | Verb

to shape

To shape a material in a mould.

Synonyms

form, sculpt, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mould

Commonly used when referring to the creation of something by shaping a liquid material using a hollow container. Also used metaphorically to describe influencing someone's character or behavior.

  • The artist poured the clay into the mould to create the statue.
  • Teachers have a significant role in moulding the minds of young children.
shape

A general term used to describe giving a particular form or arrangement to something. It can be physical shaping or metaphorically influencing the course of events or development.

  • They will shape the metal into a thin sheet.
  • Early experiences can shape a person's future.
form

Tends to be used in a broader sense, meaning the act of shaping or developing something. Can refer to both physical and abstract concepts.

  • The potter will form the clay into a beautiful vase.
  • Recent experiences have helped form his new perspective on life.
sculpt

Specifically refers to the art of carving or shaping materials like clay, stone, or wood into a desired form, typically used in artistic contexts.

  • She loves to sculpt figures from marble.
  • He is working on sculpting a new bust for the gallery.

Examples of usage

  • The potter moulded the clay into a beautiful vase.
  • She moulded the dough into tiny cookies.
  • He moulded his idea into a successful business plan.
  • The sculptor moulded the clay into a lifelike figure.
  • They moulded the plastic into various shapes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Fungi, including mould, play a crucial role in the ecosystem by decomposing organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil.
  • Some types of mould produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful or poisonous to humans and animals if consumed in large quantities.

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient Rome, mould was sometimes used in the fermentation of bread, showing that early societies recognized its role in food processes.
  • In art, mould-making is a technique used to create sculptures or replicas in various materials, demonstrating its significance beyond biology.

Health and Safety

  • Exposure to mould can lead to respiratory problems and allergic reactions, making it important to manage damp conditions in homes.
  • Certain types of mould are intentionally cultivated for food production, such as blue cheese, offering both benefits and risks.

Literature

  • Mould has been depicted in poetry and novels as a symbol of decay or the passage of time, evoking feelings of nostalgia and loss.
  • In some fairy tales, mould is featured as a mysterious element that leads to transformation, reflecting its dual nature of creation and destruction.

Origin of 'mould'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Old English word 'mawde', referring to a type of earth or dust, evolving into its current form.
  • In Middle English, 'mould' was used to describe both soil and the shape of something, linking to its nature of forming.

The word 'mould' originated from Middle English 'molde', Old English 'molde' meaning earth or dust. It has been used since the 13th century to refer to the container used for shaping materials. Over time, the term expanded to include biological growth and the act of shaping materials. 'Mould' is commonly used in both British and American English.

See also: moulder.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,984 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.