mold

/məʊld/ noun, verb

Etymology

From Middle English mold, from Old English molde meaning "earth, soil"

Definitions

As a noun

1. A fuzzy growth of fungi on organic matter, especially in warm and damp conditions

   • "There was green mold growing on the old bread."

2. A hollow container used to give shape to molten or liquid material

   • "She used a heart-shaped mold to make chocolates."

3. A distinctive nature, character, or type

   • "He was a leader cast in the classic mold."

As a verb

1. To shape or form something using a mold

   • "The artist molded the clay into a beautiful vase."

2. To influence or shape someone's character/development

   • "Good teachers help mold young minds."

3. To develop fungal growth

   • "The cheese will mold if left unrefrigerated."

Word Forms

• molded/moulded (past tense)
• molding/moulding (present participle)
• moldable (adjective)

Synonyms

• shape
• form
• cast
• fashion
• fungus
• growth

Memory Tricks

1. Remember "OLD" in "mold" - mold often grows on old things
2. Think of Play-Doh molds - they shape things just like the verb "to mold"

Usage Notes

• British spelling: "mould"
• Often used metaphorically in phrases like "break the mold" (to be different from the usual)

Related Words

• moldable: capable of being shaped
• moldy/mouldy: covered with mold
• molder: to decay gradually