cast1
v.
(past and past part. cast)
- throw forcefully in a specified direction.
▸throw so as to spread over an area.
- cause (light or shadow) to appear on a surface.
▸direct (one's eyes or thoughts) towards something.
▸cause to be associated with something:
journalists cast doubt on this version of events.
- shed or discard (something).
- shape (metal or other material) by pouring it into a mould while molten.
▸arrange and present in a specified form or style.
- register (a vote).
- throw the hooked and baited end of (a fishing line) out into the water.
- cause (a magic spell) to take effect.
- calculate and record details of (a horoscope).
- Hunting let loose (hounds) on a scent.
▸search around for a scent.
n.
- an object made by casting metal or other material.
-
(also plaster cast)
a mould used to make such an object.
▸a bandage stiffened with plaster of Paris, moulded to support and protect a broken limb.
- an act of casting something.
▸Brit. the leader of a fishing line.
- form, appearance, or character:
she had a somewhat masculine cast of countenance.
- a slight squint.
- short for worm cast.
- a pellet regurgitated by a hawk or owl.
- a wide sweep made by a dog or pack of hounds.
Phrase verbal
- cast about
(or around or round)
search far and wide. - be cast away
be stranded after a shipwreck. - be cast down
feel depressed. - cast off
(or cast something off)
- Knitting take the stitches off the needle by looping each over the next to finish the edge.
- set a boat or ship free from her moorings.
- let loose a hunting hound or hawk.
- Printing estimate the space that will be taken in print by manuscript copy.
- cast on
(or cast something on)
Knitting make the first row of a specified number of loops on the needle.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: from ON kasta ‘to cast or throw’.
cast2
n.
the actors taking part in a play or film.
v.
(past and past part. cast)
assign a part to (an actor).
▸allocate parts in (a play or film).
Etymology
C17: a special use of cast1.