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REFERENCE

material

n. · adj.
US //məˈtɪɹiəɫ// UK //mətˈiəɹɪəl// ma·te·ri·al
  1. 1 physical substance (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a physical substance used to make things, such as wood, metal, or plastic.

    a physical substance or matter from which something is or can be made.

    Example

    The engineers are testing a new material that is stronger than steel but much lighter.

    Example

    The selection of raw materials is critical to the structural integrity of the bridge, especially in regions prone to seismic activity.
  2. 2 fabric (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    cloth or fabric used for making clothes, curtains, or other items.

    woven, knitted, or felted fabric; cloth.

    Example

    She bought five meters of silk material to make a dress for the wedding.

    Example

    The designer preferred working with natural materials like linen and wool, citing their breathability and superior drape compared to synthetic alternatives.
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  1. 3 information or ideas (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    information, notes, or ideas used to create a book, a speech, or a show.

    data, observations, or ideas that serve as the basis for a finished work or a judgment.

    Example

    The comedian spent months writing new material for his upcoming world tour.

    Example

    The historian spent years in the national archives, meticulously gathering source material for her definitive biography of the prime minister.
  2. 4 physical (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    relating to physical things rather than thoughts or feelings.

    relating to or consisting of physical matter; corporeal as opposed to spiritual or intellectual.

    Example

    The monk gave up all his material possessions to live a simple life in the mountains.

    Example

    In a world increasingly focused on material wealth, the philosopher argued for a return to communal and intellectual values.
  3. 5 important or relevant (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    important enough to change a situation or a decision.

    having real importance or great consequences; significant or essential to a case or argument.

    Example

    The lawyer argued that the new evidence was material to the case and should be heard.

    Example

    The court ruled that the defendant's failure to disclose his previous convictions constituted a material breach of the contract.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'material evidence' or 'material change'.
Origin

From Middle English material, from Late Latin māteriālis, from Latin māteria (“wood, material, substance”), from māter (“mother”). Displaced native Middle English andweorc, andwork (“material, matter”) (from Old English andweorc (“matter, substance, material”)). Doublet of materiel.

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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