mat meaning and definition

MAT noun

Definition of mat (noun)

1. a thick flat pad used as a floor covering
2. mounting consisting of a border or background for a picture
   • synonyms: matting
3. sports equipment consisting of a piece of thick padding on the floor for gymnastic sports
   • synonyms: gym mat
4. a mass that is densely tangled or interwoven
   • "a mat of weeds and grass"
5. a master's degree in teaching
   • synonyms: Master of Arts in Teaching
6. the property of having little or no contrast; lacking highlights or gloss
   • synonyms: flatness, lusterlessness, lustrelessness, matt, matte
7. a small pad of material that is used to protect surface from an object placed on it

MAT verb

Definition of mat (verb)

1. twist together or entwine into a confusing mass
   • "The child entangled the cord"
   • synonyms: entangle, snarl, tangle
   • antonym: disentangle
2. change texture so as to become matted and felt-like
   • "The fabric felted up after several washes"
   • synonyms: felt, felt up, mat up, matte, matte up, matt-up

MAT adjective

Definition of mat (adjective)

1. not reflecting light; not glossy
   • "flat wall paint"; "a photograph with a matte finish"
   • synonyms: flat, matt, matte, matted