ENGLISH
REFERENCE

closer

adj. · adv. · n.
US //ˈkɫoʊsɝ// clos·er
  1. 1 more near (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    at a shorter distance in space or time than something else.

    the comparative form of 'close', indicating a smaller spatial or temporal interval.

    Example

    As we got closer to the city, the traffic became much heavier.

    Example

    The closer we approached the summit, the more the oxygen levels dropped, forcing the team to slow their pace significantly.
  2. 2 more similar (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    more like something else, or having a stronger relationship.

    denoting a higher degree of similarity, intimacy, or accuracy.

    Example

    The two brothers are much closer now than they were as children.

    Example

    Upon closer inspection, the researchers realized that the two chemical compounds were not identical despite their similar appearance.
    • dearer
    • more accurate
    • more distant
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  1. 3 at a shorter distance (adv.)
    A2 Elementary

    to a position that is not as far away.

    to a more proximate position in space, time, or degree.

    Example

    Please move the chair closer to the window so I can see better.

    Example

    The deadline is drawing closer, yet the committee has still not reached a consensus on the budget allocation.
  2. 4 someone who finishes a deal (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a person, especially in business, who is very good at finishing a deal or sale.

    a person who specializes in concluding a negotiation or securing a final agreement.

    Example

    She is the best closer in the office and always gets the contract signed.

    Example

    The firm brought in a senior closer to finalize the merger after months of stalled negotiations between the two boards.
  3. 5 a finishing pitcher (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English Sport

    a player who comes into a game at the very end to make sure their team wins.

    a relief pitcher who specializes in securing the final outs of a game, typically when their team has a narrow lead.

    Example

    The team's closer came on in the ninth inning to finish the game.

    Example

    The manager hesitated to use his primary closer, fearing that the pitcher's recent shoulder fatigue might lead to a blown lead.
  4. 6 a device that shuts (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    a mechanical device that makes sure a door or gate shuts automatically.

    a mechanical apparatus designed to ensure a door or gate returns to a closed position after being opened.

    Example

    The automatic door closer was broken, so the door stayed open all night.

    Example

    The building code requires a heavy-duty hydraulic closer on all fire-rated doors to ensure they seal properly during an emergency.

Origin

From Middle English closere, equivalent to close (verb) + -er.

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