mold

mold

mold¹ [mōld]

n.

[ME moolde < OFr molle, earlier modle < L modulus: see MODULE]

1. a pattern, hollow form, or matrix for giving a certain shape to something in a plastic or molten state

2. a frame, shaped core, etc. on or around which something is modeled

3. a pattern after which something is formed; model

4. something formed or shaped in or on, or as if in or on, a mold; often, specif., a gelatin dessert, aspic, etc. so prepared

5.

a) the form or shape given by a mold

b) form or shape in general

6. distinctive character or nature [men of his mold]

7. Archit. a molding or group of moldings

vt.

1. to make or shape in or on, or as if in or on, a mold

2. to work into a certain form or shape; shape

3. to have a strong or important influence on (public opinion, thought, etc.)

4. to fit closely to the outline or contours of

5. to ornament by or with molding

6. to make a mold of or from in order to make a casting

moldable

adj.

molder

n.

mold² [mōld]

n.

[ME moul, mowlde, mold, mildew < or akin to ON mygla < IE base * meug-, *meuk-: see MEEK; sp. prob. infl. by MOLD³]

1. a downy or furry growth on the surface of organic matter, caused by fungi, esp. in the presence of dampness or decay

2. any fungus producing such a growth

3. any plant disease, as snowmold, caused by such fungus

vt., vi.

[< ME moulen (with unhistoric -d-]

to make or become moldy

mold³ [mōld]

n.

[ME mold < OE molde, dust, ground, earth, akin to Goth mulda < IE base * mel-, to rub away, grind > L molere, to grind, MILL¹]

1. loose, soft, easily worked soil, esp. when rich with decayed animal or vegetable matter and good for growing plants

2. Archaic earth or ground