# mace

/ˈmeɪs/ (US) · /mˈeɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mace
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a strong spray that causes pain and tears in the eyes. You use it to protect yourself from an attacker.

For teachers: a chemical irritant, typically containing chloroacetophenone or oleoresin capsicum, used as a non-lethal aerosol spray for self-defence or riot control.

## Examples

- She carries mace on her keychain for safety.
- The security guard was forced to use mace to stop the intruder from entering the building.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.