an examination given in school or college to find out how much someone knows or can do
Maria studied all night for the math test she had in the morning.
The teacher collected the tests and started grading right away.
✦ From Middle English test, from Latin testum “earthen pot, shell used by gold-smiths to try metals,” later “trial, proof.”
an examination of blood, urine, or other samples from the body to discover an illness or condition
The doctor ordered a blood test to check Lisa’s iron levels.
A quick COVID-19 test was given at the airport.
a trial or experiment done to see if something works or how good it is
The engineers performed a safety test on the new bridge.
Our company will run a market test before launching the product.
to give someone an exam to measure their knowledge or skill
The coach will test the players on their passing skills today.
Teachers tested the students every Friday to track progress.
to check a machine, product, or idea to see if it works well
The technician will test the fire alarm before we open the store.
Scientists tested the new vaccine on volunteers.
present participle of test; carrying out a test on something or someone
The scientist is testing a new vaccine in the laboratory.
We are testing the fire alarm this afternoon.
✦ From Middle English “testen”, from Old French “test”, originally meaning a small earthen pot used in assaying metals; evolved to mean examine or try.
after the planned or expected time.
We arrived late at the theater and missed the opening scene.
Don't stay up late before an exam.
cheerful or full of hope; likely to be good or successful
He greeted us with a bright smile.
Things are looking bright for the team this season.
✦ Figurative sense of ‘likely to turn out well’ dates from early 17th century.
demanding that people follow rules or behave well, allowing very little freedom or flexibility.
Our new maths teacher is very strict and checks every homework assignment carefully.
There are strict rules about wearing hard hats on the construction site.
✦ From Latin “strictus”, past participle of “stringere” meaning “to draw tight”.
giving enjoyment, satisfaction, or comfort; nice or agreeable
We spent a pleasant afternoon by the lake.
The hotel room had a pleasant view of the garden.
✦ From Middle English plesaunt, from Old French plaisant, present participle of plaisir “to please”, ultimately from Latin placēre “to please”.
