level
UK: ˈlɛv(ə)l | US: ˈlɛv(ə)l
n. a horizontal plane or line; a position on a scale of quantity, intensity, or importance
adj. having a flat, even surface; balanced or equal in position
vt. to make something flat or even; to aim or direct (e.g., a criticism)
The word "level" traces back to the Latin libella, a diminutive of libra ("balance, scales"), which also gave rise to words like "equilibrium." The root lev- (from levare, "to lift") implies balance or alignment, as scales lift to compare weights. Over time, "level" evolved from a tool for measuring flatness to describing equality or evenness in abstract contexts (e.g., "level playing field"). The suffix -el (via Old French -el) adds a sense of instrumentality, originally denoting a small balance or tool.
The carpenter ensured the shelf was perfectly level.
She leveled her gaze at the opponent during the debate.
The city lies at sea level.
The game offers multiple difficulty levels.
He leveled accusations against his colleagues.