The meaning of MERE is being nothing more than. How to use mere in a sentence.

MERE definition: being nothing more nor better than. See examples of mere used in a sentence.

MERE definition: 1. used to emphasize that something is not large or important: 2. used to emphasize how strongly…. Learn more.

Define mere. mere synonyms, mere pronunciation, mere translation, English dictionary definition of mere. adj. Superlative mer·est 1. Being nothing more than what is specified: a mere child; a mere 50 …

Jan 20, 2026 · mere (plural meres) (dialectal or literary) A body of standing water, such as a lake or a pond (formerly even a body of seawater), especially a broad, shallow one.

minor or unimportant: A mere child couldn't defeat him. being nothing more nor better than: a mere pittance; He is still a mere child. pure and unmixed, as wine, a people, or a language. absolute. 1. …

There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun mere, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Mere has a homograph — a completely different word that's spelled the same — and this mere means a lake or a pond. It’s related to the Dutch word meer — there’s lots of water in Holland.

MERE meaning: 1 : used to say that something or someone is small, unimportant, etc.; 2 : used to say that something small is important or has a big effect or influence

You use mere to emphasize how unimportant or inadequate something is, in comparison to the general situation you are describing.