# Tate

/ˈteɪt/ (US)

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

## Senses

### 1. the art gallery

noun · CEFR B2 · British English

a famous group of art galleries in the UK, including the Tate Modern and Tate Britain.

For teachers: the British national institution for British and international modern art, comprising four major galleries.

- We spent the whole afternoon looking at modern paintings at the Tate.
- The Tate Modern's conversion of the old power station remains one of the most significant architectural achievements in London's cultural history.

Usage: Usually used with the definite article 'the'.

Teaching tip: When people say 'the Tate' without a specific location, they are usually referring to the Tate Modern in London.

### 2. vertical screen mode

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Slang

a way of playing video games where the screen is taller than it is wide, like on a phone.

For teachers: a display orientation in video gaming where the monitor is rotated 90 degrees to provide a vertical aspect ratio.

- I turned my monitor sideways to play the game in tate mode.
- Hardcore enthusiasts often invest in rotating mounts specifically to experience classic arcade shooters in their original tate orientation.

Usage: Often used as a modifier before another noun.

Teaching tip: This is a niche term used by fans of classic arcade shooters; most people will simply say 'vertical mode'.

## Examples

- We spent the whole afternoon looking at paintings at the Tate.
- The Tate holds one of the most significant collections of modern art in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually.
- While the original gallery focused on British masters, the expansion of the Tate into multiple sites allowed for a dedicated space for experimental and large-scale international installations.

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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.