adj. & adv.
--adj.
1. acting or done in accordance with what is morally right or fair.
2 (of treatment etc.) deserved (a just reward).
3 (of feelings, opinions, etc.) well-grounded (just resentment).
4 right in amount etc.; proper.
--adv.
1. exactly (just what I need).
2 exactly or nearly at this or that moment; a little time ago (I have just seen them).
3 colloq. simply, merely (we were just good friends; it just doesn't make sense).
4 barely; no more than (I just managed it; just a minute).
5 colloq. positively (it is just splendid).
6 quite (not just yet; it is just as well that I checked).
7 colloq. really, indeed (won't I just tell him!).
8 in questions, seeking precise information (just how did you manage?).
Phrases and idioms:
just about colloq. almost exactly; almost completely. just in case as a precaution. just now
1. at this moment.
2 a little time ago.
just so
1. exactly arranged (they like everything just so).
2 it is exactly as you say.
Derivatives:
justly adv. justness n.
Etymology: ME f. OF juste f. L justus f. jus right