Press: meaning, definitions and examples

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press

 

[ prɛs ]

Noun / Verb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Noun

printing

A machine used for printing, especially one that works by a process in which ink is transferred to paper or another material from a plate or block.

Synonyms

printing machine, printing press

Examples of usage

  • The book was printed on an old-fashioned press.
  • The newspaper was printed using a high-speed press.
Context #2 | Noun

media

The news media; journalists viewed collectively as a profession.

Synonyms

journalism, media

Examples of usage

  • The press has been criticized for biased reporting.
  • The freedom of the press is a fundamental right in many countries.
Context #3 | Verb

exerting force

To exert continuous physical force on (something), typically in order to operate a device or machine.

Synonyms

push, squeeze

Examples of usage

  • He pressed the button to start the machine.
  • She pressed down on the accelerator to speed up.

Translations

Translations of the word "press" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pressionar

🇮🇳 दबाएं

🇩🇪 drücken

🇮🇩 menekan

🇺🇦 натискати

🇵🇱 nacisnąć

🇯🇵 押す (osu)

🇫🇷 appuyer

🇪🇸 presionar

🇹🇷 basmak

🇰🇷 누르다 (nureuda)

🇸🇦 ضغط

🇨🇿 stisknout

🇸🇰 stlačiť

🇨🇳 按 (àn)

🇸🇮 pritisniti

🇮🇸 ýta

🇰🇿 басу

🇬🇪 დააჭირე

🇦🇿 basmaq

🇲🇽 presionar

Etymology

The word 'press' has a long history, dating back to the 14th century. It originally comes from the Old French word 'presser', meaning 'to press, push'. Over time, the word evolved to have various meanings related to printing, media, and exerting force. The printing press revolutionized the way information was distributed, while the freedom of the press became a cornerstone of democracy. Today, 'press' is used in a wide range of contexts, reflecting its rich linguistic and historical background.

See also: depress, express, impress, oppress, pressing, pressingly, pressings, pressure, pressuring, repress, repressed.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,319, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.