Double

Definition

Double can function as a noun, verb, adjective, and adverb. As an adjective, it means having two identical or similar parts. As a noun, it refers to something made up of two parts or an amount twice as large. As a verb, it means to multiply by two or to increase twofold. As an adverb, it describes doing something to twice the usual extent.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdʌbəl/
• Respelling: DUB-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdʌbəl/
• Respelling: DUB-uhl

Etymology

The word "double" originates from the Latin "duplex," meaning "twofold" or "having two parts," from "duo" (two) and "plex" (folded). The term passed through Old French as "doble" before entering Middle English as "double," maintaining its meaning of being twice or twofold.

Derivatives

• Doubling (noun/verb)
• Doublet (noun)
• Double-sided (adjective)
• Double-check (verb)
• Redouble (verb)

Synonyms

• Dual
• Twice
• Duplicate

Antonyms

• Single
• Half
• Divide

Usage

The term "double" is used in various contexts. As a noun, it refers to something composed of two parts, as in "a double portion." As a verb, it means to increase something twofold, such as "They doubled their efforts." As an adjective, it describes something in pairs or twice as large, like "a double feature."

Related Terms

• Duplicate: To make an exact copy of something.
• Twice: Two times; doubled in amount.
• Pair: A set of two items that are similar or used together.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having two parts or twice the size: Describes something that has been multiplied by two or has two identical parts.
  • Example: "The restaurant serves double portions."

Noun

• An amount twice as large as usual: Refers to something that is double in quantity or size.
  • Example: "She asked for a double of espresso."

Verb

• To multiply by two or increase twofold: Indicates the action of doubling something in amount, quantity, or intensity.
  • Example: "Their profits doubled last year."

Adverb

• To twice the degree or amount: Used to describe an action performed to two times the extent.
  • Example: "The project is moving forward at double the speed."