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Definition of list

list

/lɪst/
list

Plural:lists
•
Past Simple:listed
•
Past Participle:listed
•
Present Participle:listing
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list Lexical Profile

list Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A series of names, items, or figures written, printed, or spoken together in a meaningful sequence.

Example

"She wrote a grocery list to ensure she didn't forget any ingredients at the store."


2

A leaning or tilt to one side, particularly referring to a ship or boat.

Example

"The damaged vessel developed a severe list to starboard after taking on water in the storm."


3

An arena or enclosed area set aside for jousting tournaments or other contests (typically used in the plural).

Example

"The knights rode into the lists to the sound of trumpets and cheering crowds."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for list

• verb

1

To create a sequence or catalog of items, or to include an item in such a sequence.

Example

"The report lists all the significant challenges the company faced during the previous quarter."


2

To offer a property, product, or service for sale at a specified price.

Example

"They plan to list their house on the market next spring."


3

To lean or tilt heavily to one side (especially referring to a ship or vessel taking on water).

Example

"As the cargo shifted unexpectedly, the freighter began to list dangerously to port."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

The word functions as a homonym; its common meaning denoting a written catalog is completely unrelated etymologically to its nautical sense describing a ship tilting to one side.

• Rhymes for list

Word Origin & Etymology

The primary sense (a catalog) derives from Middle English 'liste', originally meaning a border or strip of cloth, which evolved to mean a strip of paper used for writing items. The nautical sense (a tilt) is of obscure origin, possibly related to an older Germanic verb meaning 'to lean' or 'to desire'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of List. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/list
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