express1
/
ɪkˈsprɛs,
ɛk-/
v.
- convey (a thought or feeling) in words or by gestures and conduct.
- press out (liquid or air).
- Mathematics represent by a figure, symbol, or formula.
- Genetics cause (an inherited characteristic or gene) to appear in a phenotype.
Derivative
- expresser n.
- expressible adj.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. expresser, based on L. ex- ‘out’ + pressare ‘to press’.
express2
/
ɪkˈsprɛs,
ɛk-/
adj.
operating at high speed.
▸denoting a service in which deliveries are made by a special messenger.
adv.
by express train or delivery service.
n.
-
(also express train)
a train that stops at few stations and so travels quickly.
- a special delivery service.
v.
send by express messenger or delivery.
Etymology
C18: extension of express3; the adjective is from express train, reflecting an earlier sense of express ‘done or made for a special purpose’, later interpreted in the sense ‘rapid’.
express3
/
ɪkˈsprɛs,
ɛk-,
ˈɛksprɛs/
adj.
stated explicitly.
▸specific; particular.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: from OFr. expres, from L. expressus ‘distinctly presented’, past part. of exprimere ‘press out’.
