English Reference
verb · adjective · noun

collect

v. · adj. · n.
US /kəˈɫɛkt/ col·lect UK spelling collects

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.to bring things from different places together into one group.

    v.to gather together or amass items from various sources into a single location or group.

    Simple

    The children helped collect all the toys and put them in the box.

    In context

    The researchers spent three months in the field to collect data on local bird populations before beginning their analysis.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    v.to buy or find things of a certain type because you enjoy keeping them.

    v.to accumulate a number of similar or related objects for recreation, study, or investment.

    Simple

    My brother used to collect rare coins when he was younger.

    In context

    She has spent decades collecting first-edition novels, eventually amassing one of the most significant private libraries in the country.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary British English

    v.to go to a place and get someone or something to take them away.

    v.to fetch or pick up a person or object from a designated location.

    Simple

    I need to leave work early to collect my daughter from school.

    In context

    The courier is scheduled to collect the signed documents from the reception desk at four o'clock this afternoon.

    fetchpick up
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.to gather in one place to form a group or a pile.

    v.to assemble or accumulate in a mass or group; often used of substances or people.

    Simple

    Dust tends to collect under the bed if you do not clean regularly.

    In context

    A small crowd began to collect outside the courthouse as news of the verdict spread through the city.

  5. 05 B1 Intermediate

    v.to ask for and receive money that people owe, like taxes or rent.

    v.to receive or compel payment of money due.

    Simple

    The charity workers went door-to-door to collect donations for the hospital.

    In context

    The agency was hired to collect outstanding debts from clients who had failed to respond to initial invoices.

    paydisburse
  6. 06 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to make an effort to become calm and think clearly.

    v.to regain control of one's composure or thoughts, especially after a shock.

    Simple

    She took a deep breath to collect herself before walking onto the stage.

    In context

    He paused for a moment to collect his thoughts, ensuring his response to the hostile question was measured and professional.

  7. 07 B2 Upper Intermediate American English

    adj.describes a phone call or delivery that the person receiving it pays for.

    adj.denoting a shipment or telecommunications connection for which the recipient, rather than the initiator, pays.

    Simple

    He didn't have any money, so he made a collect call to his parents.

    In context

    The shipping department confirmed that the heavy machinery would be sent via collect freight, with the buyer assuming all transport costs upon arrival.

  8. 08 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical Religion

    n.a short prayer used in some Christian church services.

    n.a brief liturgical prayer used in Western Christian traditions, typically assigned to a specific day or theme.

    Simple

    The priest read the collect for the day at the start of the service.

    In context

    The congregation stood in silence as the bishop recited the ancient collect, its phrasing preserved from the sixteenth-century prayer book.

Usage collect samples · collect data · collect information

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated