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neat1 definition

neat (nēt)

adjective

  1. unmixed with anything; undiluted; straight: said esp. of liquor drunk without a mixer or chaser
  2. Rare free of deductions; net
    1. clean and in good order; trim; tidy
    2. characterized by tidiness, skill, and precision a neat worker
    3. without anything superfluous; simple
  3. well-proportioned; shapely
  4. cleverly or smartly phrased or done
  5. Slang nice, pleasing, fine, etc.: a generalized term of approval

Etymology: Fr net < L nitidus, shining, elegant, smart, trim < nitere, to shine < IE base *nei-, to be active, shine > MIr nīam, luster, beauty

Related Forms:

neat2 definition

neat (nēt)

noun pl. neat

Now Rare a bovine animal; ox, cow, etc.

Etymology: ME nete < OE neat (akin to ON naut, Du noot) < base of neotan, to enjoy, possess < IE base *neud-, to make use of > Lith naudà, benefit, possessions

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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NEAT/LINEAR139 years ago

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