n.pl.
1. (often treated as sing.) that by which a result is brought about (a means of quick travel).
2 a money resources (live beyond one's means). b wealth (a man of means).
Phrases and idioms:
by all means (or all manner of means)
1. certainly.
2 in every possible way.
3 at any cost. by means of by the agency or instrumentality of (a thing or action). by no means (or no manner of means) not at all; certainly not. means test an official inquiry to establish need before financial assistance from public funds is given.
Etymology: pl. of MEAN(3)