Daily Word • Learn, play, and grow your vocabulary
To "mete out" means to distribute or allot something, often punishment or justice. Think of it as giving someone their due, whether good or bad. It suggests a careful, measured approach, rather than a random act. It's like a judge deciding on a sentence, or a teacher giving out grades. The phrase implies fairness, although the outcome might not always feel fair to everyone involved. Consider it the opposite of showing favoritism or acting arbitrarily.
The word "mete" comes from Old English "metan," meaning "to measure." This traces back to a Proto-Germanic root signifying measurement and assessment. Over time, "mete" evolved to describe the act of allotting or distributing something according to a standard. The phrase "meted out" emphasizes the careful and considered nature of this distribution, suggesting a weighing of consequences or fairness.
Imagine you're in a game like 'Among Us,' and after a heated discussion, the crewmates vote to eject someone they suspect is the imposter. The game mechanics 'mete out' justice, whether correctly or not, based on the evidence presented. Similarly, in 'The Hunger Games,' the Capitol metes out a brutal form of control by selecting tributes, distributing suffering amongst the districts.
Don't be afraid to use "meted out" in your writing and conversations! It adds a sense of formality and precision to your language. Next time you see a system of rewards or punishments, think about how things are being meted out. 👍
Get expertly crafted daily words delivered straight to your WhatsApp. Join thousands learning new words every day!
