English Reference
adjective · verb · noun · adverb

double

adj. · v. · n. · adv.
US /ˈdəbəɫ/ UK /dˈʌbəl/ dou·ble UK spelling doubled

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.twice as much or as many as usual.

    adj.denoting twice the quantity, size, or value of a standard unit.

    Simple

    I ordered a double espresso because I was feeling very tired.

    In context

    The company reported double the expected profits after the new product line became an overnight success.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    adj.made of two matching parts or designed for two people.

    adj.composed of two identical or complementary elements; designed for use by two individuals.

    Simple

    We booked a double room for our weekend trip to the city.

    In context

    The house features double doors at the entrance, creating a grander aesthetic than a standard single-width frame.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    v.to become twice as big or to make something twice as big.

    v.to increase twofold in quantity or size; to multiply a value by two.

    Simple

    The population of the small town doubled in just ten years.

    In context

    The investor hoped to double her initial capital within five years by focusing on high-growth technology stocks.

    halve
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to have a second use or job in addition to the main one.

    v.to serve an additional purpose or function beyond the primary one; often used with 'as'.

    Simple

    This sofa doubles as a bed when we have guests staying over.

    In context

    During the off-season, the coastal resort doubles as a training centre for professional athletes seeking a quiet environment.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.someone who looks exactly like another person.

    n.a person who bears a striking physical resemblance to another, sometimes acting as a substitute.

    Simple

    I saw a man today who was a perfect double for my brother.

    In context

    The actor used a stunt double for the dangerous scene involving the high-speed motorcycle chase.

    lookalikedoppelganger
  6. 06 B1 Intermediate Informal

    n.a drink that has two shots of alcohol instead of one.

    n.a serving of spirits containing twice the standard measure of alcohol.

    Simple

    He asked the bartender for a double gin and tonic.

    In context

    After a long and stressful flight, he decided to order a double at the hotel bar before heading to his room.

  7. 07 B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    n.winning two important competitions in the same year.

    n.the achievement of winning two major trophies or events in a single season or meeting.

    Simple

    The team won the double by taking both the league title and the cup.

    In context

    Winning the double remains the ultimate ambition for most top-tier European football clubs.

  8. 08 B1 Intermediate

    adv.with two people or things together.

    adv.in a pair or twofold manner; often used in the phrase 'to see double'.

    Simple

    After the hit to his head, he started seeing double.

    In context

    The soldiers were ordered to march double-quick to reach the border before nightfall.

Usage double quotation · doubled in size · doubled since


PIE word *dwóh₁ From Middle English double, from Old French doble, double, from Latin duplus (“twofold”). Doublet of doppio and duple.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin duplus
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated