n.
Pronunciation: ' mend
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English, short for amenden ― more at AMEND
Date: 13th century
transitive verb
1 : to free from faults or defects: as a : to improve in manners or morals : REFORM b : to set right : CORRECT c : to put into good shape or working order again : patch up : REPAIR d : to improve or strengthen (as a relationship) by negotiation or conciliation ― used chiefly in the phrase mend fences <spends the weekend mend ing political fences ― E. O. Hauser> e : to restore to health : CURE
2 : to make amends or atonement for <least said, soonest mend ed >
intransitive verb
1 : to improve morally : REFORM
2 : to become corrected or improved
3 : to improve in health also : HEAL
– mend · able \ ' men-d ə -b ə l \ adjective
– mend · er noun
synonyms MEND , REPAIR , PATCH , REBUILD mean to put into good order something that has been injured, damaged, or defective. MEND implies making whole or sound something broken, torn, or injured < mended the torn dress>. REPAIR applies to the fixing of more extensive damage or dilapidation < repaired the back steps>. PATCH implies an often temporary fixing of a hole or break with new material < patch worn jeans>. REBUILD suggests making like new without completely replacing <a rebuilt automobile engine>.