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space (spās)
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n.
1.
a. Mathematics A set of elements or points satisfying specified geometric postulates: non-Euclidean space.
b. The infinite extension of the three-dimensional region in which all matter exists.
2.
a. The expanse in which the solar system, stars, and galaxies exist; the universe.
b. The region of this expanse beyond Earth's atmosphere.
3.
a. An extent or expanse of a surface or three-dimensional area: Water covered a large space at the end of the valley.
b. A blank or empty area: the spaces between words.
c. An area provided for a particular purpose: a parking space.
4. Reserved or available accommodation on a public transportation vehicle.
5.
a. A period or interval of time: within the space of a week.
b. A little while: Let's rest for a space.
6. Sufficient freedom from external pressure to develop or explore one's needs, interests, and individuality: "The need for personal space inevitably asserts itself" (Maggie Scarf).
7. Music One of the intervals between the lines of a staff.
8. Printing One of the blank pieces of type or other means used for separating words or characters.
9. One of the intervals during the telegraphic transmission of a message when the key is open or not in contact.
10. Blank sections in printed material or broadcast time available for use by advertisers.
v. spaced, spac·ing, spac·es
v.tr.
1. To organize or arrange with spaces between: Carefully space the words on the poster.
2. To separate or keep apart: The buildings are spaced far from each other.
3. Slang To stupefy or disorient. Often used with out: The antihistamine spaces me out so I can't think clearly.
v.intr.
Slang
To be or become stupefied or disoriented. Often used with out: I was supposed to meet her, but I spaced out and forgot.
[Middle English, area, from Old French espace, from Latin spatium.]
spacer n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
 

Indo-European & Semitic Roots Appendices

    Thousands of entries in the dictionary include etymologies that trace their origins back to reconstructed proto-languages. You can obtain more information about these forms in our online appendices:

    Indo-European Roots

    Semitic Roots

    The Indo-European appendix covers nearly half of the Indo-European roots that have left their mark on English words. A more complete treatment of Indo-European roots and the English words derived from them is available in our Dictionary of Indo-European Roots.

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