matched

UK: mætʃt | US: mætʃt

Definition
  1. adj. paired or corresponding in kind or quantity

  2. adj. (of a contest or competitors) evenly balanced in skill or strength

  3. vt. past tense of "match": to pair or align something with another

Structure
match <to pair, from Old English *gemæcca*>ed <past participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "match" traces back to Old English gemæcca, meaning "companion" or "one of a pair." Over time, it evolved to signify pairing or aligning things (e.g., colors, skills). The suffix "-ed" marks the past tense or participial form, indicating completion of the action. The modern sense of "balanced competition" emerged from the idea of pairing equally skilled opponents.

Examples
  1. The socks were perfectly matched in color.

  2. The teams were well-matched in the finals.

  3. She matched her dress with a stylish hat.

  4. His skills matched those of a professional.

  5. The puzzle pieces matched seamlessly.