English Reference
noun

mag

n.
US /ˈmæɡ/ mag UK spelling magged, magging, mags

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Informal

    a short, informal word for a magazine.

    a clipping of magazine, used in informal registers to refer to periodical publications.

    Simple

    I bought a fashion mag at the airport to read during the flight.

    In context

    The editor decided to relaunch the indie mag as a digital-only platform to save on rising print and distribution costs.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    a measure of how bright a star or planet is.

    a clipping of magnitude, specifically referring to the brightness of a celestial object on a logarithmic scale.

    Simple

    The star has a mag of 2.5, making it easy to see with the naked eye.

    In context

    Astronomers noted that the supernova reached a peak mag of -4.0, briefly outshining every other object in the night sky except the moon.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a type of expensive, shiny metal wheel on a car.

    an ellipsis of 'mag wheel', referring to automotive wheels originally made from magnesium alloy, now used for various alloy wheels.

    Simple

    He spent all his savings on a new set of mags for his car.

    In context

    The vintage sports car was restored to its original glory, complete with polished mags and period-correct racing tyres.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    a short name for the metal magnesium, often used in car parts or science.

    a clipping of magnesium, frequently used in industrial, automotive, or chemical contexts.

    Simple

    The engine block is made of a mag alloy to keep the weight down.

    In context

    The laboratory technician ordered a fresh supply of mag ribbon for the undergraduate combustion experiments.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated