mild

mild · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Not severe, harsh, or extreme; moderate in degree or intensity.

  2. 2.

    (Of food or drink) Not strongly flavored or spicy.

  3. 3.

    Gentle and not easily provoked; having a calm temperament.

  4. 4.

    (Of a punishment or criticism) Not severe or harsh.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mild-mannered — gentle and not aggressive
  • •
    mild steel — steel with low carbon content
  • •
    to put it mildly — an understatement; the situation is actually more serious

Related words

Antonyms: harsh, intense, severe, strong
See also: gentle, moderate, soft, temperate
Synonyms: gentle, moderate, soft, temperate

Etymology

From Old English milde ("gentle, merciful, kind"), from Proto-Germanic mildijaz. Related to German mild and Dutch mild.