# mating

/ˈmeɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /mˈeɪtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mating
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. animal reproduction

noun · CEFR B2

the act of two animals coming together to have sex and produce young.

For teachers: the pairing of organisms for copulation and reproduction. Uncountable in a general sense, but countable when referring to specific instances.

- Spring is the main mating season for many birds in this forest.
- Biologists observed the complex mating rituals of the birds of paradise, noting how the males used vibrant plumage to attract a partner.

### 2. fitting together

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

describing two parts that are designed to fit perfectly into each other.

For teachers: denoting two or more parts that fit together or correspond exactly, such as a plug and a socket.

- Check that the mating surfaces of the two pipes are clean before joining them.
- The engineer specified that the mating components must be machined to a high tolerance to ensure a vacuum-tight seal.

## Examples

- Spring is the main season for mating among local birds.
- Scientists observed the complex mating rituals of the birds of paradise in the rainforest.
- The success of the conservation program depends on creating an environment that mimics the natural conditions required for the mating of these endangered turtles.

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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.