even

UK: ˈiːv(ə)n | US: ˈiːvən

Definition

  1. adj. flat, smooth, or level

  2. adj. equal or uniform in quality, amount, or value

  3. adv. used to emphasize something surprising or extreme

  4. v. to make or become even

Structure
eve <evening, balance>n <adjectival suffix>
Etymology

The word "even" traces back to Old English efn, meaning "level, equal, or calm," derived from Proto-Germanic ebnaz. The root eve relates to balance or uniformity, while the suffix -n solidifies its adjectival form. Over time, "even" expanded to include adverbial emphasis (e.g., "even better") and verbal uses (e.g., "to even the score"), reflecting its core idea of equilibrium.

Examples

  1. The table must be perfectly even to avoid wobbling.

  2. They divided the money into even shares.

  3. She didn’t even apologize for being late.

  4. He used a roller to even the surface of the paint.

  5. The teams were evenly matched in skill.