n. 1 the method of human communication, either spoken or written, consisting of the use of words in an agreed way. 2 the language of a particular community or country etc. (speaks several languages). 3 a the faculty of speech. b a style or the faculty of expression; the use of words, etc. (his language was poetic; hasn't the language to express it). c (also bad language) coarse, crude, or abusive speech (didn't like his language). 4 a system of symbols and rules for writing computer programs or algorithms. 5 any method of expression (the language of mime; sign language). 6 a professional or specialized vocabulary. 7 literary style. language laboratory a room equipped with tape recorders etc. for learning a foreign language. language of flowers a set of symbolic meanings attached to different flowers. speak the same language have a similar outlook, manner of expression, etc.
[ ME f. OF langage ult. f. L lingua tongue ]