Shakespeare words: M

ma foi interjection

A French oath meaning "by my faith." Characters use it to swear they're telling the truth or to express surprise or emotion.

Ma foi, I never saw such a thing in my life!

mace noun

A heavy staff carried as a symbol of authority—like a police officer's baton today. Shakespeare uses it figuratively for anything that pins you down or arrests you, the way sleep weighs on someone.

Sleep as a heavy mace that pins you in place.

machiavel noun

A cunning schemer who uses ruthless tricks to get what he wants. The word comes from Machiavelli, the Italian thinker known for advising rulers to do whatever it takes to hold power.

Iago plays the machiavel, plotting Othello's downfall with lies and manipulation.

machine noun

The body, or the physical frame that makes up a person. Shakespeare uses it to talk about the human form as a kind of structure or mechanism.

His machine—his body—bore the marks of years of war.

maculate adjective

Marked or stained by dirt, guilt, or moral corruption. The opposite of immaculate.

A maculate conscience haunted him after the deed.

maculation noun

A mark or stain, often used of moral or physical blemish. Something that spoils or dirties what was pure.

A single maculation on her honor would ruin her marriage prospects.

mad verb

To drive someone to anger or frenzy. Can also mean to become mad yourself.

The constant delays maddened her patience.

mad-bred adjective

Born from or caused by madness. Something mad-bred comes straight out of a disturbed or frenzied mind.

His mad-bred scheme would never work in daylight.

madam noun

A polite form of address for a woman of rank or social standing, equivalent to modern 'ma'am' or 'Mrs.'

And I, madam, as I leave, mourn my father's death again: but I must follow the king's orders, to whom I am now a ward, always under his control.

made-up adjective

Fully formed or complete. A person who is made-up has all the qualities and skills needed — they're finished, polished, ready.

A made-up man of war needs courage, strategy, and the respect of his soldiers.

madonna noun

A respectful Italian way of addressing a woman, like saying 'madam' or 'my lady' in English. Shakespeare's characters use it to show courtesy or sometimes irony.

"Madonna, you speak well" — a polite way to address a noblewoman or a woman of standing.

madrigal noun

A song or short poem, especially one with music. In Shakespeare's time, madrigals were popular as part-songs — pieces for multiple singers without instruments.

The birds outside the window sang like madrigals at dawn.

maggot-pie noun

A magpie—the black-and-white bird. Shakespeare uses the term as an insult, calling someone a magpie-pie (a chatterbox or thief, since magpies steal shiny things).

magnanimity noun

The strength to face danger or hardship without flinching. A kind of brave patience that keeps you steady when things are hard.

She showed magnanimity in the face of loss, holding her dignity without complaint.

magnanimous adjective

Brave, noble, and generous in spirit. A magnanimous person acts with courage and dignity, rising above pettiness or revenge.

A magnanimous leader forgives enemies rather than seeking vengeance.

magnifico noun

A grand title for the powerful merchants and nobles who ruled Venice. Shakespeare uses it as a fancy word for any impressive or self-important man.

He struts about like a magnifico, though he's just a tradesman's son.

mahu noun

A demon's name from a real 17th-century text about possession that Shakespeare borrowed. Shakespeare used names like this to make his characters' madness sound authentic and terrifying.

maid noun

a young unmarried woman or girl; a female servant

What do you say, Hermia? think carefully, fair girl: Your father should be like a god to you; The one who shaped your beauty, yes, and the one To whom you are like a figure in wax, Shaped by him, and within his control To keep that form or change it. Demetrius is a noble gentleman.

maid marian noun

A female character in the traditional May Day celebrations and folk dances that were popular in Shakespeare's time. She was part of the festive entertainment—often comic, sometimes played by a man in drag.

The village chose their prettiest girl to play Maid Marian in the May games.

maid-child noun

A girl or young daughter. This word is archaic—Shakespeare's contemporaries didn't use it much, and we don't use it at all anymore.

maid-pale adjective

Pale or white-skinned, especially as a sign of fear, illness, or shock. The word connects paleness to the delicate complexion once thought ideal for young women.

His maid-pale face showed he'd seen something terrible.

maiden adjective

Young, unmarried, and virginal. Also used to describe something untouched or unused—a fortress never conquered, a soldier who hasn't tasted battle. The word carries a sense of innocence and purity.

A maiden voyage; a maiden battle fought without bloodshed.

maiden-widowed adjective

Widowed before ever being married—a widow in name only, having lost a husband-to-be before the wedding took place.

She remained maiden-widowed, grieving a man she'd never had the chance to call her own.

maidenhead noun

A woman's virginity. In Shakespeare's time, this was treated as a precious possession—something a woman lost through intercourse and could never regain.

A man who seduces a woman and then abandons her has stolen her maidenhead and her reputation.

maidhood noun

The state or time of being a young unmarried woman. In Shakespeare's time, it carried weight—it was a girl's most valuable asset before marriage.

She guarded her maidhood carefully, knowing her future depended on it.

mail noun

A piece of armor made from interlocking metal rings or links. It protected soldiers' bodies and was often worn under or instead of plate armor.

The warrior's mail clinked as he moved across the battlefield.

mailed adjective

Wrapped up or enclosed, bundled tightly. Often used to describe being covered or hidden away.

Mail'd up in shame, with papers on my back—trapped and exposed at once.

maim noun

A serious wound or injury that cripples or disables someone. Shakespeare often uses it figuratively to mean any grave damage or flaw.

Your father's sickness is a maim—a damage to the whole family's strength.

main noun, adjective

As a noun: the open sea, or the bulk of something (an army, a body of water). As an adjective: chief, principal, or exerted with full force. Shakespeare uses it to mean what matters most—the main point, the main body of troops, the vast ocean.

The army's main force struck at dawn. England is hedged in by the main.

main chance noun

The most important thing you're trying to achieve or win. The stakes that matter most in whatever you're after.

main-course noun

The largest sail on a ship, attached to the main mast. It's the primary sail that catches the wind and drives the vessel forward.

The captain ordered the crew to haul on the main-course as the wind picked up.

mainly adverb

With force or intensity. In Shakespeare's time it could mean violently, greatly, or thoroughly—depending on context.

He struck the table mainly, as if his anger could splinter the wood.

maintain verb

To keep going or support something. In Shakespeare, it often means to carry on a conversation, pay for something, or sustain a role or part.

Maintain no words with him — don't keep talking to him.

maintenance noun

The way someone carries themselves or behaves; their outward manner or bearing.

He kept a proud maintenance, even when fortune turned against him.

majesty noun

Royal dignity, authority, or power; a title of respect for a monarch or sovereign.

His love and wisdom, Approved to your majesty, should earn The fullest trust.

major adjective

Greater or more important than anything else. Your major concern is the one that matters most.

majority noun

Superiority or being ahead of others—the state of having the upper hand or standing out above the rest.

He claimed majority over all his rivals in both wit and courage.

make noun

A spouse or partner. The word carries the sense of someone matched with you, a companion in marriage or life.

make away, verb

To destroy or end something. Can also mean to set out or go forward, though Shakespeare uses it most often for putting an end to life or existence.

To make away my guiltless life — to destroy an innocent person's existence.

makeless adjective

Without a husband. A woman left alone, either by death or abandonment.

A makeless widow grieves the loss of her partner.

makes verb

causes to be or become; renders; creates or produces a state or condition

Crowns him with flowers and makes him all her joy:

making noun

The materials or qualities that combine to form something. What goes into creating or composing a person or thing.

malapert adjective

Rude and disrespectful in a cocky way. Someone who's malapert says or does things they shouldn't, without shame or fear of consequences.

A malapert servant who talks back to his master will soon find himself out of work.

malcontent noun

A person who is dissatisfied and resentful, especially someone who openly grumbles about their lot or their ruler. In Shakespeare's time, a malcontent was a recognizable type—the disgruntled courtier or outcast who made their unhappiness known.

He played the malcontent, muttering complaints in every scene.

malefaction noun

Wrongdoing or harm caused deliberately. Evil action, or the practice of it.

The villain's malefactions had ruined the entire city.

malevolent adjective

Showing active ill will or a wish to harm. In Shakespeare's day, people believed that the stars themselves could be malicious, sending bad luck or misfortune to those below.

A malevolent glare from across the room.

malice noun

The power or will to cause harm. In Shakespeare's time, it could mean either the capacity itself or a specific act of cruelty.

The villain's malice knew no bounds—he'd destroy anyone who crossed him.

malicious adjective

Fierce and aggressive, driven by a wish to cause harm. In Shakespeare, it often describes anger that's intense and dangerous.

His malicious words cut deep, meant to wound as much as any blade.

maliciously adverb

With fierce, aggressive force. In Shakespeare, it often means fighting hard and brutally rather than with careful planning or hatred.

The soldiers fought maliciously, their blows meant to do real damage.

malign verb

To speak ill of someone out of hatred or jealousy. To attack their reputation.

You malign our senators when you spread lies about them.

malignant adjective

Evil, hostile, or poisonous in influence. In Shakespeare's time, it could mean a disease that spreads dangerously, or a person's nature that works against God and goodness.

A malignant spirit poisoned the king's mind against his own son.

malkin noun

A slovenly or loose woman. Often used as an insult for a woman of low status or questionable morals.

A kitchen maid dismissed as a malkin for her careless ways.

mall noun

A pet name or nickname, often used for a kitchen maid or other servant. It's an informal, affectionate form of the name Maud.

mallecho noun

A sneaking, underhand plot or mischief — the word itself suggests something hidden or shameful. It's often paired with miching (skulking about) to describe devious behavior done in secret.

malmsey-nose noun

A red nose, especially one caused by heavy drinking. The name comes from Malmsey wine, which was linked to a flushed, ruddy complexion.

A drunkard with a malmsey-nose stumbled into the tavern.

malt-horse noun

A sturdy, slow horse used by people who made malt. Shakespeare and his contemporaries threw the term around as an insult—basically calling someone dull, plodding, or worthless.

malt-worm noun

A heavy drinker. Someone who spends their time and money on ale and beer.

The old malt-worm spent every evening at the tavern.

mammer verb

To hesitate or waver, especially when you're unsure what to say or do. It starts from stammering or mumbling, but grows into meaning any kind of indecision or fence-sitting.

Don't mammer—just tell me what you want.

mammet noun

A doll or puppet. Used as an insult for a person who is lifeless, foolish, or controlled by someone else.

You mammet—you just do whatever she tells you.

mammock verb

To tear or rip something into pieces. It's a rough, violent action—shredding fabric, tearing meat apart, that kind of thing.

He just mammocked the letter without reading it.

man noun

An adult male human. Also used to mark a moment of maturity or responsibility—"since I was man" means since I grew up and became answerable for myself.

"I was never mine own man since"—I haven't been in control of my own life.

man-entered adjective

Grown into manhood. A man who has come of age and learned what it means to be a man.

A man-entered warrior knows the weight of command.

man-queller noun

A murderer or killer of men. Shakespeare uses it as a bold, striking way to name someone who takes human life.

A man-queller in the field, feared by all who cross him.

man's pronoun, possessive (genitive form of 'man')

belonging to or associated with a man; used to show possession or relationship to a male person

Here's the list of everyone's name who is considered fit, all across Athens, to perform in our play before the duke and duchess, on his wedding night.

manage noun

The training of a horse to perform controlled movements and paces. Shakespeare uses it for the horse's skillful performance itself, or more broadly for any controlled action or scheme.

He watched the rider put the horse through its manage—a display of perfect control.

manager noun

Someone who handles or wields something—a sword, a tool, an instrument. The person in control of it.

manakin noun

A small man, or a man of little importance. Shakespeare uses it as an insult—someone who's physically tiny or morally insignificant.

That manakin dares challenge a true soldier?

mandragora noun

A plant with a root that looks vaguely human. Its leaves were used to make a powerful sleep potion, and people believed it shrieked when pulled from the ground — a sound so terrible it could kill anyone who heard it.

The juice of mandragora could knock someone unconscious for hours.

mandrake noun

A poisonous plant with a forked root that looks vaguely human. People believed it screamed when you pulled it up—a sound so terrible it could kill you. Shakespeare uses it as an insult or a symbol of something deeply unnatural.

The mandrake's shriek was said to drive a man mad or stop his heart.

mane noun

The crest or foamy top of a wave. Shakespeare uses it to describe the wild, flowing appearance of sea spray and breaking water.

The ship rode the mane of the storm-tossed waves.

manhood noun

The state of being a man, or the qualities expected of one—especially courage and strength. In Shakespeare, it usually means bravery or the resolve to act with honour.

He doubted his own manhood when fear held him back from the fight.

mankind noun

The human race. Sometimes stressed to mean specifically men or male people, especially in contrast to women.

A mankind witch — a woman who acts like a man.

manly adverb

With courage and resolve. Acting without flinching or complaint.

manner noun

The way someone behaves or conducts themselves — their habits, customs, or moral character. Also: politeness, good breeding, or the forms of courteous behavior expected in polite society.

A nobleman was known by his manner as much as by his rank.

mannerly adjective

Polite and well-behaved; showing good manners or respect. In Shakespeare's time, it meant fitting for a person of your station.

A mannerly reply shows you respect the person you're speaking to.

mansion noun

A dwelling or home. Shakespeare often uses it poetically for any fixed place someone lives, including the grave as a final resting place.

His everlasting mansion—the grave where he'll rest forever.

mansionry noun

A dwelling or house. This word appears in the First Folio as "mansonry," and scholars believe it may be a misprint or variant of "masonry" — though the intended meaning seems to be a place where someone lives.

mantle verb

To cover or spread over something like a blanket or film. In Shakespeare, often used for how mist, scum, or emotion can veil or obscure.

Ignorant fumes mantle their clearer reason — confusion spreads and hides their good judgment.

manual seal noun

A personal or official seal—a stamp or signet ring—used to mark documents with wax as proof of identity or authority. In Shakespeare's world, your seal was your signature.

manure verb

To work the soil, preparing it for crops. Shakespeare uses it the way we'd say 'till' or 'cultivate.'

The farmer manures his field before planting.

manus noun

The hand. Shakespeare uses this Latin word mostly in legal and formal contexts, where it signals authority or agency — the hand as the agent of action or signature.

many noun, adjective

A crowd or multitude of people—often used with a dismissive edge, as in "the common masses." Also used as an adjective meaning "a long time ago" or "many a," especially in phrases like "many a day."

"The rank-scented many" refers to the ordinary crowds in the streets.

map noun

A perfect picture or living example of something. When Shakespeare calls someone a 'map of honour,' he means they are honour made visible—a whole world of it contained in one person.

A character might be called 'a map of woe' to mean their face and bearing show all the suffering in the world.

mappery noun

The craft of drawing maps. Shakespeare uses it dismissively—as if map-making is mere busywork, bloodless compared to real conquest or exploration.

marble adjective

Cold and unyielding, like stone. Used to describe someone heartless or unmoved by emotion. Can also mean smooth and gleaming, like polished marble.

A marble heart refuses to soften, even when asked for mercy.

marble-constant adjective

Solid and unchanging, like stone. Used to describe someone whose resolve or feelings won't crack or shift.

His marble-constant love never wavered, even when she doubted him.

marbled adjective

Smooth, hard, and pale—like marble stone. Shakespeare uses it to describe things that are grand, cold, or have the gleaming quality of polished marble.

The sky itself, vast and shining overhead, like a marble vault.

marcantant noun

A merchant or trader. The word is a mangled version of the Italian word for merchant, and Shakespeare uses it with a playful or mocking tone.

A foreign trader arriving with bolts of silk and spices.

march noun, verb

A military procession or movement of soldiers; to walk in formation, especially as an armed force.

A march afar

march chick noun

A young person who is unusually mature or advanced for their age. March chicks hatch early in the season and grow faster than birds born later, so the name became a figure of speech for children who develop quickly.

marches noun

The border region between England and Scotland, or England and Wales. These frontier lands were rough, contested territory where local lords held real power.

The king sent his army to secure the marches against Scottish raiders.

marchpane noun

A sweet made from ground almonds, sugar, and egg white, pressed into molds and often decorated. It was a luxury dessert at Renaissance banquets.

The feast ended with marchpane shaped like castles and gilded with gold leaf.

mare noun

A female horse. Shakespeare also uses it in phrases about things going wrong or being out of balance—like 'whose mare is dead?' to ask what's the problem. In some contexts, it means nightmare.

margent noun

The edge or border of something. Shakespeare uses it for the rim of a beach, the blank space around text in a book, or the area around the eyes—which he sometimes calls the place where feelings show on your face.

marish noun

A marsh or swamp—wet, boggy ground.

mark noun

A target or aim—what you're trying to hit or reach. Also used for a notable person or thing that stands out as an example or guides others, like a beacon.

He fought beyond the mark of what seemed possible.

mark-man noun

A skilled shooter with a gun or bow. Someone who hits what they aim at.

market noun

A deal or bargain—the exchange of something for profit or advantage. Shakespeare often uses it to mean the best use someone makes of their time or talents, as if selling them to get something in return.

He ended the market by selling his time well.

market-bell noun

A bell rung to signal that the market is open for business. In Shakespeare's time, this sound told townspeople it was time to buy and sell.

When the market-bell rang at dawn, merchants rushed to set up their stalls.

marl noun

Soil or clay, often used as an insult to call someone stupid or earthbound. Shakespeare uses it to mean a lump of dirt—something heavy, dumb, and stuck in place.

A man called 'a clod of wayward marl' is being called a blockhead.

marmoset noun

A tiny monkey, smaller than most other primates. Shakespeare's audiences would have seen them as exotic pets or curiosities brought back from distant lands.

A marmoset perched on the merchant's shoulder, chattering and stealing grapes from his pouch.

marquess noun

A title of nobility ranking below duke and earl in England. In other European countries, the rank sits between duke and count. The wife of a marquess is called a marchioness.

The Marquess of Montferrat held lands across northern Italy.

marriage noun

The union of two people joined by ceremony and law. In Shakespeare's time, marriage was often arranged by families for property or alliance, not romance—though love could grow after.

He seeks marriage to gain her father's lands, though he comes to love her truly.

married verb (past tense/past participle)

joined in wedlock; united as husband and wife in a legal or religious ceremony

Guys, the duke is coming from the temple, and there are two or three other lords and ladies getting married: if our play had gone on, we'd all be famous now.

marry verb

to join in marriage; to take as a husband or wife

This man has my permission to marry her.

marshal noun

A high-ranking officer of the state, often in charge of ceremonies, battles, or official proceedings. In France, the supreme military rank. Shakespeare often uses it to mean a leader or commander.

marshalsea noun

A prison in London, run by the royal household's chief officer. It held debtors and other prisoners and was famous (or infamous) in Shakespeare's time.

mart noun

A market—a time and place where people gather to buy and sell. Shakespeare also uses it for the buying and selling itself, or a business deal.

The merchant lost his fortune in a desperate mart.

martial adjective

Warlike, brave, or strong in the way a warrior god would be. Often used to describe physical power or fighting spirit.

His martial thigh — muscular and ready for battle.

martin noun

A spell of mild, pleasant weather that comes around November 11 (St. Martin's Day). Used figuratively for any unexpected good fortune or peaceful time after hardship.

After years of struggle, he found his martin's summer at last—unexpected comfort in his final years.

martlemas noun

Martinmas, the feast day of Saint Martin on November 11th. Shakespeare uses it mockingly of Falstaff, likely playing on the tradition of slaughtering and salting oxen at that time—calling him fattened meat.

martlet noun

A small bird, like a swallow or house-martin. In Shakespeare's time, these birds were known for nesting in the eaves and walls of buildings, especially churches and grand houses.

The martlets nested in the castle walls, returning each spring.

martyr verb

To torment someone cruelly or cause them severe pain. In Shakespeare's time, it could also mean to mutilate or disfigure someone's body.

They hated him, martyred him, and killed him.

martyr'd adjective

Marked by extreme suffering or pain. The word suggests a body or spirit worn down by torment, as if tortured for a cause.

His martyr'd face showed every year of hardship he'd endured.

marvel noun

A feeling of amazement or wonder. Often used in the phrase "no marvel" to mean "no wonder" — as in, it's not surprising.

No marvel that she fled the castle when the storm began.

marvellous adverb

Wonderfully; remarkably. Used to intensify adjectives and other adverbs—it means something is impressively good or striking.

That was a marvellous fine performance.

mary-bud noun

The bud of a marigold flower. Shakespeare's time valued marigolds for their bright color and medicinal uses.

The mary-bud closes when clouds gather, opening again with the sun.

mash verb

To mix something thoroughly, especially grain with water to make beer or ale. Shakespeare uses it figuratively for anything blended together intensely—here, sorrow mixed into tears on cheeks.

Sorrow mash'd into her tears until they ran down her face.

mask verb

To wear a disguise or costume, especially at a fancy ball or court entertainment. It's about dressing up to hide who you really are.

The lovers mask at the ball so no one will know their true identities.

masking, masquing adjective

Belonging to or part of a masque—a kind of theatrical entertainment with music, dance, and elaborate costumes that was popular at court. You'd use this word to describe the props, costumes, or activities involved in putting one on.

mass noun

A large amount or heap of something—money, treasure, or physical stuff. In Shakespeare's time, it often meant a substantial pile of wealth or riches.

The king hoarded masses of gold in the castle vault.

mast noun

Nuts from beech, oak, or chestnut trees. Pigs ate them, and they were a valuable food source in forests.

Pigs in the wood grew fat on fallen mast.

master noun

A person in charge—a leader, captain, owner, or authority figure. Also used as a respectful form of address (like "sir") or as a title before a man's name.

"Farewell, my masters" — a friendly goodbye to a group of men.

master-mistress noun

A man who is someone's lover or romantic partner outside of marriage. It's the male equivalent of a mistress—the counterpart role.

He kept a master-mistress while his wife remained at home.

masterdom noun

Complete power over someone or something. Total command.

He seized masterdom of the kingdom through force.

masterly adjective

Skillful and commanding—the work or performance of someone who has complete control of their craft. Shows real expertise and authority.

A masterly swordsman who never hesitates or fumbles in a duel.

masterpiece noun

The finest work someone has created. The thing they're most proud of and most known for.

This play is widely considered Shakespeare's masterpiece.

masters noun

A form of address for men of equal or lower social standing; gentlemen, sirs, or fellows.

A very good play, I assure you, and funny too. Now, good Peter Quince, call out the actors by name. Everyone, get ready.

mastership noun

A respectful form of address, like 'sir' or 'madam.' Also means skill or expertise at the highest level.

Your mastership knows the law better than anyone in this court.

mastick adjective

Massive or bulky. A dialectal or misspelled form of 'mastiff,' used to describe something of great size or weight.

match noun

A person or thing equal to another in strength, skill, or worth. Also: a contest between two evenly matched opponents, or an agreement struck between people.

He was no match for her wit.

mate noun

A fellow or companion, sometimes used dismissively. On a ship, the officer who carries out the captain's orders.

an inkhorn mate (a pedantic fellow)

material adjective

Real and substantial—made of actual stuff, not just air or ideas. Also means having good sense, or full of meaning and weight.

matin noun

Morning, or the early hours of the day. A rare poetic way to name the time when the sun rises.

The matin air was cold and still before the household woke.

matter noun

What's real and important—as opposed to nonsense or jokes. When someone has "matter," they're saying something that counts. It's often used in phrases like "no matter" (doesn't matter) or "to the matter" (let's get to the point).

"You're full of matter today" = You're making actual sense, not just fooling around.

mature adjective

Ripe, ready, or fully developed. In Shakespeare's time, it often means reaching adulthood or a state of full strength and judgment.

A mature man commands more respect than a boy still learning his way.

maugre preposition

Despite; in spite of. Used to mean something happens or is true even though something else stands against it.

Maugre all his promises, he fled the battlefield.

maund noun

A woven basket with handles, used to carry food, laundry, or goods. You'd recognize it as the kind of basket you'd pack a picnic in.

She brought the maund to market filled with fresh bread and cheese.

may noun

The prime of life, the time of youthful vigor and beauty. Shakespeare uses it to describe someone at their peak—fresh, strong, and full of promise.

The May of his youth is fading fast.

maypole noun

A joking term for a very tall person. Like a maypole — tall, straight, and hard to miss.

maz(z)ard noun

A joking word for someone's head. Shakespeare uses it to mock or tease, never seriously.

A blow to the mazzard would knock some sense into him.

mazed adjective

Stunned or confused, as if lost in a maze. Your mind is tangled and you can't think straight.

The mazed world — everything spinning, nothing making sense.

me pompae noun phrase

The peak of honor or greatness. A Latin phrase meaning ambition and glory have drawn someone toward the heights.

me'dicinable adjective

Able to heal or cure. Something that works like medicine—it can fix what's broken or wrong.

Some griefs are medicinable with time and care.

me'dicinal adjective

Having healing or therapeutic power. Shakespeare uses it to describe words, remedies, or actions that soothe or cure.

Her kind words proved medicinal to his wounded heart.

meacock adjective

Soft, timid, or unmanly. A man who won't stand up for himself or show courage.

He called his rival a meacock for backing down from the fight.

meadow noun

A field of grass that stays wet and fertile, usually near a stream or river. The kind of open land where cattle graze.

The lovers met in the meadow by the water.

meagre adjective

Thin, scrawny, or lacking in substance. Used for people, food, land—anything that seems starved or depleted.

A meagre harvest left the village hungry through winter.

meal'd adjective

Marked with spots or stains, either literally or figuratively. A word that marks something as sullied or blemished.

mealy adjective

Powdery or dusty on the surface. Shakespeare uses it to describe things that look grainy or crumbly, like flour or meal clinging to skin or fabric.

Her mealy hands from grinding grain.

mean noun

A way or method of doing something. Also: the middle ground between two extremes, or your access to someone or something you need.

He used every means available to win her favor.

meaning noun

What someone intends to do or communicate. The purpose behind an action or choice.

His strange outfit must have some purpose behind it.

meanly adverb

Poorly or badly. Shakespeare often uses it to describe a shabby performance or humble position—like singing in a weak, low voice, or acting without dignity.

He sings a mean part—nothing grand or commanding about it.

means noun

Resources, money, or the ability to do something; also, a method or way of accomplishing something.

Which in no way we can reduce or soften--

meantime noun

The time between now and something else. Often used in the phrase "in the meantime" to mean "for now" or "while that's happening."

In the meantime, let's get ready for the feast.

measle noun

A vile disease, or a contemptible person. Shakespeare uses it as a slur for someone despicable—someone you wouldn't want near you.

measurable adjective

Fitting or appropriate for the occasion or person. Something measurable works well for its purpose.

A measurable gift for a king—something worthy of his station.

measure noun

A unit of distance or extent—in fencing, how far apart two fighters stand. More broadly, it means an amount that fits or satisfies something, or a limit set on something. It can also mean moderation, fair treatment, or (in music and dance) a rhythm, tune, or formal dance step.

She kept her distance, staying just out of measure from his blade.

mechanic adjective

Of or belonging to manual labor—working class, common, or lowborn. Shakespeare often uses it as a put-down for tradespeople and craftspeople rather than the genteel or noble.

A nobleman wouldn't want to be seen negotiating with Rome's mechanics—mere tradesmen.

mechanical adjective

Working-class, unskilled. Often used dismissively for laborers, craftspeople, or ordinary tradespeople—the people who do manual work rather than thinking work.

The 'rude mechanicals' are the working men putting on a play.

medal noun

A small metal disk, often worn on a chain or cord around the neck. In Shakespeare's time, these could hold a portrait or keepsake inside, like a locket.

Wearing her portrait like a medal around his neck—a token of devotion.

meddle verb

To get involved in something, especially when you shouldn't. It can mean to mix in a fight or to concern yourself with someone else's business.

The shoemaker should not meddle in matters of state.

medice, teipsum interjection

A Latin phrase meaning "physician, heal yourself." Shakespeare uses it to mean you should fix your own problems before criticizing others—practice what you preach.

medicine noun

A substance used to heal or cure illness—but in Shakespeare's time, also any potion or drug meant to transform something, whether poison, love charm, or even legendary elixir. Sometimes used to mean a doctor or physician themselves.

medlar noun

A small brown fruit that looks like an apple and is only edible after it's rotted soft inside. Shakespeare loved the word because it sounds like 'meddler' — someone who sticks their nose in.

The medlar is worthless until it falls and decays on the ground.

meed noun

A reward or payment you've earned through your actions or worth. In Shakespeare's time, it could mean either the gift itself or the merit that deserves it.

He earned his meed through years of faithful service.

meek adjective

Gentle, patient, and kind—the opposite of harsh or violent. Sometimes it means subdued or broken in spirit, lacking energy or fight.

A meek man who won't stand up for himself, or a meek smile that shows forgiveness.

meered verb

Bounded or enclosed by a boundary line, especially a wall or fence. The word refers to marking the edge or limit of land.

meet verb

To come face to face with someone or something. In Shakespeare, it often means to encounter by chance, run into, or confront—whether that's a person, a stroke of luck, or a threat.

When thou dost meet good hap — when fortune comes your way.

meeting noun

A place where people come together. In Shakespeare's time, this could mean a rendezvous point, a junction, or any spot agreed upon for an encounter.

They arranged a secret meeting by the old oak tree.

meetly adverb

In a way that's suitable or adequate. Not perfect, but good enough for the occasion.

meetness noun

The quality of being right or suitable for something. Whether a person or thing fits the occasion.

The king questioned the meetness of a commoner sitting at his table.

mehercle interjection

A Roman oath swearing by Hercules. Shakespeare uses it as an emphatic exclamation, like saying "by God!" or "I swear!"

meinie, meiny noun

A band of followers or servants attached to a person of rank. Shakespeare sometimes uses it to mean the common crowd or rabble—people seen as fickle and crude.

A king's meinie would ride into battle at his command.

melancholy noun

A gloomy, irritable mood. In Shakespeare's time, people believed melancholy was one of four temperaments that shaped your personality—if you had too much of it, you'd be withdrawn, moody, and hard to be around.

He's sunk in melancholy since she left, snapping at everyone who tries to help.

mell verb

To get involved in someone else's business or quarrel without being asked. To mix in where you don't belong.

Don't mell with their dispute—it's not your fight.

melt verb

To drain away strength or vigor. When something melts, it loses its solid form—and when a person melts, they lose their resilience or masculine pride, worn down by softness or excess.

His manhood melted into courtesies—all bows and flattery, no spine.

melting adjective

Soft and tender, moved by feeling. Often describes eyes that are tearful or a voice that quivers with emotion.

A melting look that makes you forget what you were angry about.

member noun

A person who belongs to a group or shares in something together. In Shakespeare, it often means someone who takes part in a cause or organization.

The conspirators were members of a plot against the king.

memento mori noun

A physical object — like a skull or skeleton — that reminds you that death comes for everyone. Renaissance people kept these as mementos, especially in art and tombs.

The jewelled skull on his desk was a memento mori, a daily reminder of life's brevity.

memorable adjective

Worth remembering; striking enough to stick in your mind. In Henry V, it can also mean something made to commemorate or honor a person or event.

A memorable victory—one the soldiers would tell stories about for years.

memorial adjective

Given as a way to remember or honor someone. These are kisses meant to keep a person in mind.

memorize verb

To make something memorable or unforgettable. To fix something firmly in people's minds so they won't forget it.

The king's brave deeds will memorize his name for all time.

memory noun

A reminder or keepsake of someone or something. Also, the act of remembering itself, or a record kept to preserve what might otherwise be forgotten.

A lock of hair kept as a memory of an absent lover.

mend verb

To make something better or fix what's broken. Can mean to improve yourself, heal from sickness, set something right, or make up for a wrong you've done.

My long sickness now begins to mend.

mends noun

A fix or remedy. Usually appears in the phrase 'have the mends in one's own hands'—meaning you have the power to set things right yourself.

If you have the mends in your own hands, stop waiting and act.

mercatante noun

A merchant or trader. This is an alternate spelling of marcantant, used in older texts.

merchandise noun

Goods for trade or sale. In Shakespeare, it often means the business of buying and selling itself—the act of doing commerce.

Make what merchandise I will—sell what I choose.

merchant noun

A man or fellow—sometimes used casually for any male, like calling someone a 'guy.' In nautical settings, it can refer to a merchant sailor or trading ship.

A scurvy merchant—meaning a disreputable character.

mercurial adjective

Quick and nimble, moving with speed. It comes from Mercury, the swift-footed Roman god.

A dancer with mercurial feet, always on the move.

mercury noun

The Roman god who carried messages between heaven and earth. In Shakespeare, a messenger or someone who trades in gossip and rumor. Also the god of trickery and theft.

A swift Mercury bringing word from the battlefield.

mercy noun

Forgiveness or compassion, especially when someone has power over you. In Shakespeare, characters often 'cry mercy' to apologize or beg for forgiveness. Being 'at mercy' means being completely in someone's power.

When she realized her mistake, she cried him mercy and asked his pardon.

mere adjective

Complete and utter; nothing but. When Shakespeare calls something mere, he means it's that thing and nothing else—pure, undiluted, absolute.

Mere cozenage—just plain cheating, nothing more.

mered adjective

Bounded or limited to a specific point. In argument, the single issue that divides two sides—the crux of the dispute.

The mered question between them was whether he had promised to return.

merely adverb

Completely, entirely, through and through. When Shakespeare says something possesses a quality "merely," he means it's saturated with it—there's nothing else mixed in.

A mind corrupted merely by ambition has no room for mercy.

merit noun

What someone deserves or has earned. A reward or payment that's owed.

She wants a dearer merit for her loyal service.

mermaid noun

A mythical creature — half woman, half fish — whose beautiful singing was said to lure sailors to their doom. Shakespeare uses the term to evoke both beauty and danger.

Her voice is as enchanting as a mermaid's, pulling him toward the rocks.

merriment noun

Fun and laughter; the pleasure of enjoying yourself with others. A cheerful, lighthearted time.

A feast full of music, dancing, and merriment.

merry adjective

Cheerful and lighthearted, or playfully joking in a way that's meant to entertain. Sometimes used to describe a favorable wind, or to refer to a band of loyal companions or followers.

Robin Hood and his merry men robbed from the rich.

mervilous adjective

An older spelling of marvellous. It means amazing or wonderful—something that surprises and delights you.

What a mervilous trick—I've never seen anything like it.

mesh'd verb

Crushed or ground into a pulp or soft mass. In Shakespeare's time, this could mean literally mashing something with force, or it could be used more figuratively to describe something worn down or damaged.

mess noun

A group of four people who eat together at a banquet or formal meal. Also, a portion or dish of food itself.

The king invited him to dine at the royal mess.

message noun

An errand or task you're sent to carry out. In Shakespeare, someone 'on a message' is doing a job for someone else.

The servant went on a message to deliver the letter to the castle.

messenger noun

A person sent to carry a message or communicate between parties; an envoy or courier.

Here comes my messenger. How's it going, mischievous spirit! What's happening in the forest tonight?

metal, mettle noun

The material or substance of something—literally the metal in a sword, or figuratively the essential character of a person. In Shakespeare, it usually means courage, vigor, or spirited temperament: the quality that makes someone bold or resolute.

A warrior of brave mettle doesn't flinch in battle.

metaphysical adjective

Beyond the natural world—involving magic, spirits, or forces that can't be explained by ordinary reason. Shakespeare uses it for anything mysterious or otherworldly.

The witches' metaphysical powers let them see the future.

mete verb

To measure something out, or to aim or direct something at a target. In Shakespeare, often used for distributing or dealing out in precise amounts.

The judge will mete out a fair punishment.

mete yard noun

A stick or rod marked with units of measurement, used to measure cloth and other materials by length. Essential tool for merchants and tailors.

The draper pulled out his mete yard to check the bolt of silk.

meteor noun

A bright or glowing light seen in the sky—could be a falling star, a comet, or any shining thing overhead. Shakespeare uses it figuratively too, for anything sudden and striking that flashes across the face or spirit.

metheglin noun

A Welsh drink made by fermenting honey with herbs and spices. It's like mead's spiced cousin—sweet, warming, and the kind of thing you'd share at a feast.

A mug of metheglin by the fire beat any cold winter's night.

methinks verb

it seems to me; I think or I believe (impersonal construction, often used to express opinion or observation)

Now, fair Hippolyta, our wedding day Draws near; four happy days will bring in Another moon: but, oh, I think, how slowly This old moon fades away! she drags on my desires, Like a stepmother or an old widow Slowly draining a young man's inheritance.

method noun

A systematic way of organizing or explaining something—like the structure of a book or argument. Here it means following a logical order, as if moving through chapters.

To understand him, we must follow method: start with his heart, then his mind.

mettle noun

Your spirit, courage, or strength of character. In Shakespeare's time, 'mettle' and 'metal' were spelled the same way—both could mean the material substance of a thing, but 'mettle' came to mean the inner strength that makes someone who they are.

A soldier of true mettle doesn't flee when facing danger.

mew verb

To lock someone up or confine them to a small space. Often used for keeping a hawk in a cage, but Shakespeare uses it to mean imprisoning a person.

They mewed her in the tower until she agreed to marry.

mewl verb

To cry in a weak, whimpering way. The sound is thin and pitiful, like a kitten mewing.

The baby mewled in hunger until someone came to feed him.

mi perdonate interjection

An Italian phrase meaning "pardon me" or "excuse me." Shakespeare uses it when a character wants to apologize or ask forgiveness in a moment of tension or social awkwardness.

micher noun

Someone who skips school or work without permission. A truant or runaway.

The micher was caught hiding in the forest instead of attending his duties.

miching malicho noun phrase

Sneaky wrongdoing or mischief done in secret. The exact origin is unclear—Shakespeare may have mixed English and Spanish, or coined it whole—but the phrase means trouble brewing behind closed doors.

When Claudius pours poison in the sleeping king's ear, that's miching malicho—evil that hides before it strikes.

mickle adjective

Great or large in amount. By Shakespeare's time this word was already old-fashioned in most of England, though it stayed alive in northern dialects and in deliberately archaic writing.

microcosm noun

A human being seen as a tiny version of the whole universe—containing all its parts and mysteries in miniature. The idea is that a person is a universe unto themselves.

Your body is a microcosm: it has rivers (blood), earth (flesh), and fire (spirit).

mid-season noun

Midday; the middle of the day when the sun is highest. Shakespeare uses it to mean roughly noon, though the exact hour varies with season and latitude.

The army marches at mid-season when the heat is fiercest.

middle adjective

The point or season that falls halfway through a larger period. In Shakespeare's day, midsummer meant the summer solstice and the weeks around it.

The fairy magic peaks at midsummer's spring—the height of the growing season.

middle earth noun

The physical world as humans know it—the realm between heaven above and hell below. In Shakespeare's time, people thought of Earth as sitting at the centre of everything.

The lovers meet on middle earth, where mortals live and love.

midway adjective, adverb

Halfway between two points or states. In the air, it means suspended—neither on the ground nor fully aloft.

The arrow hung midway between the archer and the target.

might noun

Power or strength—either the ability to do something, or physical force. When Shakespeare talks about someone's might, he means what they're capable of, whether that's through will, magic, or muscle.

To be wise and love exceeds what a person has the might to do.

mightily adverb

With great force or intensity. In Shakespeare, often means 'very much' or 'a lot'—emphasizing the scale of something happening.

You're hurting your children mightily with that decision.

mighty adjective

possessing great power, strength, or importance; impressive or significant

Here, mighty Theseus.

milch adjective

Giving milk, or able to give milk—used literally for cows and metaphorically for anything that produces something valuable. Shakespeare uses it for eyes that are weeping, as if tears were a kind of milk flowing from them.

A milch cow feeds the family; milch eyes weep with sorrow.

mild adjective

Calm, gentle, and not severe or harsh. Free from anger or violence.

mile-end (green) noun

An open field on the edge of London where soldiers trained and drilled. Mile End Green was a real place, well-known in Shakespeare's time.

The recruits gathered at Mile End to practice their formations.

militarist noun

A soldier, or someone who makes their life about military matters. Shakespeare coined this word—it's not found before him.

A swaggering officer, all talk of campaigns and glory—a born militarist.

milk noun

Gentleness and compassion—the soft, nourishing kindness you'd expect from a caring person. Shakespeare uses it to mean the opposite of cruelty or hardness of heart.

Lady Macbeth fears her husband has too much milk of human kindness to murder the king.

milk-livered adjective

Cowardly. The liver was thought to hold courage, so pale or white liver meant a lack of bravery.

He called his rival milk-livered for refusing to fight.

milky adjective

Weak, feeble, or lacking courage. If someone's resolve is milky, they're easily shaken or afraid to act.

A milky heart won't survive war.

mill-sixpence noun

A sixpence coin made using a mechanical press rather than hand-struck. These coins had a distinctive ridged edge and were considered more reliable than older hand-made coins.

million'd adjective

Countless or innumerable—so many they're like a million. Shakespeare coins this word to suggest something too vast to count.

millstone noun

A heavy stone used to grind grain. In Shakespeare, tears that fall like millstones are a figure for weeping so hard and heavy it seems impossible—a way of mocking someone for crying despite their reputation for cruelty.

Her eyes ran with tears heavy as millstones.

mimic noun

An actor who performs comic or exaggerated imitations, often of well-known people or types. In Shakespeare's time, these performers were sometimes looked down on as lowbrow entertainers.

A mimic might mock a pompous nobleman or a foolish merchant for the crowd's amusement.

mince verb

To soften or downplay something—to make it seem less bad or serious than it is. Shakespeare uses it for sugarcoating language, toning down harsh truth, or affecting dainty manners.

mincing noun

Exaggerated, affected behavior—the kind of fussy politeness or dainty mannerism that signals someone's putting on airs.

He speaks with such mincing that no one believes a word he says.

mind noun

Your thoughts, opinion, or intention. What you think or want to do. In Shakespeare, it often means someone's will or desire—what they mean to have happen.

The servants must do what their masters' minds command.

minded adjective

Inclined or willing to do something. A person who is minded toward an action has the intent or desire to do it.

To know how you stand minded—to understand what you actually want to do.

mindless adjective

Careless or forgetful. Not paying attention to something that matters.

A mindless mistake cost him the whole game.

mine noun

A deep underground cavity or hollow space beneath the earth's surface. Shakespeare uses it to imagine vast hollows inside the ground itself.

The wind is trapped within the hollow mine of earth.

mineral noun

A substance dug from the earth, especially metal ore. Shakespeare also uses it for any medicine or poison extracted from minerals.

minerva noun

The Roman goddess of wisdom and warfare. Shakespeare uses her name to invoke the idea of wise counsel or strategic thinking.

By Minerva's counsel, we shall find our way through this treachery.

mingle verb

To blend or combine things together into one. Shakespeare often uses it for mixing feelings, gazes, or resources—when two people or things become genuinely connected.

The lovers mingled their hands as a sign of trust.

minikin adjective

High-pitched and thin in sound. A minikin voice or instrument cuts through like a needle.

minim noun

A musical note that lasts a short time—in fact, the shortest note in early music notation. It's the smallest unit of rhythm you could write down.

He gives me a minim rest—just the briefest pause in the music.

minime interjection

Not at all. A flat refusal or denial, usually emphatic.

minimus noun

A tiny creature—something very small. Shakespeare sometimes uses it to mean a sprite or imp.

A minimus spirit danced across the moonlit stage.

minion noun

A woman considered bold, impudent, or immoral—someone a speaker looks down on. Shakespeare uses it as a sharp insult.

minister noun, verb

As a noun: someone who does work on behalf of another—an agent or servant. Also, an angel or divine messenger. As a verb: to supply or provide something, or to perform a service like administering medicine or conducting a ceremony.

ministration noun

Help or service given to someone who needs it. In Shakespeare's time, it often meant care or attention offered in a formal or dutiful way.

The nurse's ministration eased the patient's pain.

minnick, minnock noun

Someone who puts on airs or mimics others in a silly way. A person who affects delicate manners or fools around.

minnow noun

A tiny fish. Shakespeare uses it to mean something small and insignificant, especially when comparing it to something grand.

Calling someone a minnow among whales — a small player in a big pond.

minority noun

The state of being too young to have full legal rights or responsibilities. In Shakespeare's time, this meant you couldn't inherit property or make binding contracts until you came of age.

A young heir in minority couldn't control his father's estate.

minotaur noun

A creature that devours or destroys everything in its path — a reference to the mythical monster that fed on human flesh. Shakespeare uses it to describe anything monstrously greedy or destructive.

A tyranny so vast it becomes a minotaur, consuming all hope in the kingdom.

minstrel noun

A professional entertainer who made a living playing music and telling stories. In Shakespeare's time, minstrels were common at courts, feasts, and public gatherings.

The minstrel played his lute while singing tales of distant lands.

minstrelsy noun

Music and singing, especially the kind performed by traveling entertainers. Can also mean the group of musicians themselves.

A lord might hire minstrelsy to entertain his guests at a feast.

minute noun

A unit of time—sixty seconds, or one sixtieth of an hour. In Shakespeare, often used to mean 'a moment' or 'an instant,' especially when talking about something happening 'by the minute' (constantly, moment after moment).

minute-jack noun

Someone who changes their mind constantly, or shifts their loyalties on a whim. A fickle, unreliable person.

He's such a minute-jack—you never know which side he'll take tomorrow.

minutely adverb

Every minute; at intervals of one minute. So constant and frequent it barely lets up.

The clock chimed minutely, marking each passing moment.

minx noun

A woman who flirts shamelessly or acts with bold, playful sexuality. Shakespeare uses it as an insult, often with a sting of desire mixed in.

He calls her a minx, but he can't stop watching her.

mirable adjective

Amazing or wonderful. Something that stops you in your tracks because it's so remarkable.

The magician's mirable trick left the whole court speechless.

miracle noun

A remarkable and unexplainable event—something wonderful that seems beyond human power or natural law. In Shakespeare, often something revealed or discovered in an astonishing way.

The lost child's return after years away seemed a miracle to her grieving parents.

mire verb

To stick or sink into mud or filth, either literally or as a metaphor for getting trapped in disgrace or trouble. Shakespeare often uses it to mean being soiled or defiled by shame.

A reputation mired in infamy won't be washed clean easily.

mirror noun

A perfect example of something; a person or thing so good it shows everyone else what to aim for.

She was the mirror of all virtue—everyone wanted to be like her.

mirth noun

Laughter, joking, or fun — something that makes people laugh. In Shakespeare, it can also mean a person or thing used as the target of a joke.

"I'll use you for my mirth" — I'll make fun of you.

mis-sheathed adjective

Put into the wrong sheath by accident. In Shakespeare, often used of a sword drawn and returned to its scabbard incorrectly—or metaphorically, of something misplaced or improperly contained.

A warrior in haste mis-sheathes his blade and loses precious moments in battle.

mis-speak verb

To say something wrong or inaccurate. In Shakespeare's time, it could also mean to mishear what someone said.

You've misspoken—that's not what the witness testified.

misadventured adjective

Unlucky or marked by bad fortune. Something that went wrong through no one's fault—just bad timing or chance.

A misadventured love affair, doomed from the start.

misanthropos noun

Someone who hates or deeply distrusts all people. They see humanity as fundamentally selfish or worthless.

Timon became a misanthropos after his friends abandoned him in poverty.

misbehaved adjective

Badly behaved; rude or disruptive.

miscarry verb

To come to ruin or fail. It can mean a ship is wrecked, a plan falls apart, or a pregnancy ends before its time.

My ships have all miscarried in the storm.

mischief noun

Harm, suffering, or disaster—often something that afflicts you like a curse or disease. In Shakespeare's time, the word meant real damage or calamity, not just mischievous fun.

The poison works mischief through his veins.

misconceived adjective

Based on a misunderstanding or wrong idea about something. When you've got the wrong end of the stick.

His misconceived plan to sneak out was foiled when his mother was already awake.

misconster, -construe verb

To misinterpret or misunderstand something. To read the wrong meaning into words or actions.

Don't misconster my silence as agreement.

miscreate adjective

Born outside of marriage, or not what it claims to be. In Shakespeare's time, this word carried real shame—it meant you had no legal claim to your father's name or property.

A miscreate child had no inheritance rights.

misdoubt verb

To feel doubt or suspicion about someone or something. You're not sure whether to trust them, or you fear something might go wrong.

I do not misdoubt you — I believe you fully.

misdread noun

A fear or dread of something bad—worry that something will go wrong. It's the anxiety you feel when you suspect trouble ahead.

His misdread of the storm kept him awake all night.

miser noun

A wretch or pitiable person. Shakespeare uses it as a word of contempt or pity for someone broken down by age or circumstance.

A decrepit miser—someone worn out by time and hardship.

misery noun

A state of wretchedness or suffering, especially when it befalls someone of high rank or dignity. The pain comes partly from the contrast—a noble person brought low.

A king reduced to begging knows a special kind of misery.

misgovern'd adjective

Wild and unruly; behaving without discipline or respect. Out of control.

A misgovern'd child who refuses to obey anyone.

misgovernment noun

Bad or corrupt behavior, especially by someone in power. Acting wickedly or without self-control.

The king's misgovernment has ruined the kingdom.

misgraffed adjective

Badly matched or unsuited to each other. Often used of a marriage or partnership that shouldn't have happened.

A misgraffed union between two people with nothing in common.

misorder verb

To throw something into chaos or confusion. To jumble things up so they lose their proper arrangement or sense.

The storm misordered the whole camp—tents scattered, supplies lost.

misplace verb

To put a word where it doesn't belong grammatically or logically. You're using the wrong word, or putting it in the wrong spot in the sentence.

misprise, misprize verb

To regard someone or something with contempt or disrespect. You look down on it, treat it as worthless.

She misprizes his humble gifts, seeing only their lack of value.

misprision noun

A mistake or misunderstanding—getting something wrong without meaning to. In legal contexts, it can also mean failing to report a crime you know about.

A simple misprision led him to accuse the wrong man.

misprized adjective

Wrongly judged or undervalued. When you get someone's worth completely backwards.

He dismissed her as a fool, but his judgment was misprized—she was the wisest in the room.

misproud adjective

Arrogant or full of false pride. Someone who thinks too highly of themselves, often without good reason.

A misproud nobleman swaggered through the court, convinced of his superiority.

misreport verb

To say something bad or untrue about someone. To damage someone's reputation with words.

She misreported him as a coward, when he'd been brave all along.

miss noun

A loss or absence that hurts—the pain you feel when someone or something important is gone. Shakespeare often uses it to mean the hardship caused by missing a person.

"I should have a heavy miss of thee" — I'd suffer greatly without you.

missing adjective

Gone or absent. When someone or something is missing, it's not where it should be.

He mourned his missing lady, lost to him across the sea.

missingly adverb

In a way that shows you feel the absence of someone or something. A longing or regretful tone.

She looked missingly at the door after he left.

mission noun

An errand or task someone is sent to accomplish. Often one that involves carrying help, a message, or assistance to someone who needs it.

The general sent soldiers on a mission to rescue the trapped villagers.

missive noun

A person sent to deliver a message or carry out an errand. In Shakespeare's time, this was a common way to communicate across distances.

The king sent his missive to the far corners of the kingdom.

mist noun

Confusion or uncertainty—not knowing what's real or true. Shakespeare uses it for the fog that clouds your mind when you're lost or deceived.

She moved through the mist of his lies, unable to trust what he told her.

mistake verb

To take or understand something wrongly. You might mix up a person or place, or misjudge someone's character or intention.

I lost my building by mistaking where I'd put it.

mistaking noun

A wrong action or judgement. Something done or understood incorrectly.

There's been a mistaking—you've married the wrong twin.

mistempered adjective

Made or prepared for a bad purpose. In Shakespeare's time, a weapon could be deliberately weakened or damaged—tempered wrong on purpose—to fail when needed.

A sword forged with malice, not skill.

mistership noun

The position or authority of a mistress—a woman in power or control, or a woman in a relationship outside marriage. An archaic term.

mistful adjective

Cloudy or foggy; obscured by mist. The word suggests something hard to see clearly because of haze or dampness.

A mistful morning hid the castle from view.

misthink verb

To have a bad opinion of someone or judge them harshly. To think poorly of.

Don't misthink me—I had good reason for what I did.

mistreading noun

A wrongdoing or bad deed. Something done badly or with harmful intent.

The king could not forgive such a mistreading against the crown.

mistress noun

A woman in charge of something—a household, an estate, a skill. She might be the one calling the shots, or someone you'd turn to for guidance. Shakespeare often uses it as a respectful title for a woman, like "Madam."

The moon as an auspicious mistress—a guiding force watching over the night.

mistrust verb

To suspect something might happen or to fear something exists, even if you can't prove it yet. Often used when you have a gut feeling that something is wrong.

I mistrust that he will betray us when the moment comes.

mistrustful adjective

Likely to make someone doubt or suspect something. A person or action that seems unreliable or gives off warning signs.

His mistrustful tone made everyone wonder what he wasn't telling us.

misuse noun

Bad treatment or harm done to someone. Shakespeare uses it to mean the cruel way a person is handled.

mite noun

A speck so tiny you can barely see it. Shakespeare uses it for anything impossibly small—a grain of dust, a fragment.

Not a mite of doubt remained in his mind.

mixture noun

A blend of different ingredients combined together. In Shakespeare's time, this usually meant a medical potion or cosmetic preparation.

A witch's mixture of herbs and strange substances.

mo, moe adjective

More in number or quantity. Shakespeare sometimes uses it as a shorthand for "more," especially when he wants a playful or emphatic effect.

"Mo diversity of sounds" — more kinds of sounds, more variety.

moan noun

A cry of grief or sorrow. In Shakespeare's time, people would express deep sadness this way—through audible lamentation rather than quiet suffering.

Her joy had turned to moan.

mobled adjective

Wrapped up or covered, especially around the head and face. The word is rare—Shakespeare uses it only once, and even then editors disagreed whether he meant this or a different word entirely.

mock verb

To ridicule or scoff at someone. Also: to defy openly, or to pretend or fake something.

He mocks the lion when it roars for prey — laughs in its face.

mockable adjective

Worth making fun of. Someone or something so ridiculous or absurd that it invites scorn or laughter.

His mockable vanity—always bragging about his looks—made him the target of jests.

mocker noun

Someone who tricks or lets you down. A person who makes your efforts seem pointless or wastes your time.

You're the one who made all my hard work for nothing.

mockery noun

A fake or imitation of something real—a hollow copy that looks the part but has no substance. Can also mean an action so pointless or absurd it becomes laughable.

Their promises were mere mockery—all show and no follow-through.

mode noun

A state of mind or feeling. In Shakespeare's time, this word overlapped heavily with "mood" — both captured the idea of how someone was emotionally inclined at a given moment.

model noun

A design or plan—especially an architect's blueprint for a building. Also a small-scale version of something, or an exact copy that captures all the essential qualities of what it represents.

We first survey the plot, then draw the model.

modern adjective

Ordinary, everyday, commonplace. Nothing fancy or special—just the usual run of things.

modest adjective

Restrained and reasonable. Not excessive or showy. In Shakespeare's time, it meant both measured in behavior and humble in manner—someone who doesn't overstate or demand more than what's proper.

A modest request, not a greedy one.

modestly adverb

Without bragging or pushing too hard. Simply, as the facts allow.

He described his victory modestly, giving credit to luck and his friends.

modesty noun

Self-restraint or restraint in general—not using more than necessary, keeping things measured. In Shakespeare's time, it often meant holding back on spending, eating, or talking.

Spend your money with modesty, or you'll have nothing left.

modicum noun

A small amount of something. Just a little bit.

He showed a modicum of wit in his reply.

modo noun

A demon's name from an old exorcism account that Shakespeare borrowed. Modo appears in King Lear alongside other fiend names like Flibbertigibbet.

module noun

A fake or hollow imitation of something real. In Shakespeare's time, it could mean a mere appearance or pretense of authority.

A module of kingship—all the trappings, none of the true power.

moiety noun

A share or portion of something—often a half, but sometimes just a part. Shakespeare uses it when someone owns or claims a piece of a larger thing.

He gave up a moiety of his land to settle the debt.

moist adjective

Wet, damp, or full of liquid. Often used for eyes that are tearful or rheumy, or for things soaked with rain or humidity. Shakespeare sometimes calls the moon "the moist star" because it was thought to draw moisture and influence tides.

A moist eye and a dry hand — tears in the eyes but a steady grip.

moisture noun

In Shakespeare's time, moisture was thought to be one of the four bodily humours—the fluids that made up the body and shaped both health and temperament. Too much moisture made you sluggish and phlegmatic.

moldwarp noun

A mole — the small burrowing animal with tiny eyes and soft fur. The word is old-fashioned and comes from the idea of the creature's warty skin.

mollis aer noun phrase

Soft or gentle air. A Latin phrase Shakespeare uses to evoke a delicate, soothing atmosphere—often the kind of breeze you'd feel in a pleasant moment.

mome noun

A stupid or slow-witted person. Shakespeare uses it as an insult—roughly what you'd call a fool or blockhead today.

Don't be such a mome; anyone could have figured that out.

moment noun

A brief span of time, or the immediate present instant. Also used to mean a reason or motive for doing something.

He left upon the moment—no hesitation, no goodbye.

momentany adjective

Lasting only a moment. Very brief, fleeting.

momentary-swift adjective

Lasting only an instant; as quick as a single moment. Something so fast it's almost gone before you notice it.

A momentary-swift glance across the room told her everything.

monarcho noun

A ridiculous person who has wild delusions of power and importance. The word comes from a mad Italian who called himself emperor of the world.

He struts about like a monarcho, convinced he's far greater than he truly is.

money noun

Coins and cash—the physical medium of exchange. Shakespeare uses it as both singular and plural, depending on context.

mongrel noun

An insult meaning a person of low birth or mixed and base character. Shakespeare uses it to demean someone as worthless or ignoble.

You mongrel—you're fit for nothing but the streets.

monmouth cap noun

A flat, round cap that soldiers and sailors used to wear. It was a practical military and naval style of the time.

A soldier's monmouth cap sat low over his eyes as he marched to the harbor.

mons noun

A mountain or high hill. Shakespeare uses this Latin word for dramatic effect when talking about geography or towering landscape.

monster verb

To make something seem monstrous or unnatural. In Shakespeare's hands, it can also mean to present or display something as a marvel worth staring at.

Her crime is so terrible it monstrous itself — makes even horror look ordinary.

monstrous adjective, adverb

Shockingly large or strange—used as an exclamation to mean "That's astonishing!" When modifying another word, it means extraordinarily or wonderfully (almost like saying "incredibly").

"O monstrous!" he cries, seeing the ghost appear before him.

montant noun

An upright sword thrust delivered in fencing. The word sometimes got used mockingly to suggest someone fancied themselves a skilled or showy swordsman.

He talks so much about his fencing moves—he's pure montant, all show and no substance.

month's mind noun

A wish or desire for something. It's what you feel drawn toward, what you'd choose if you could.

He had no month's mind to leave the court and return to the country.

monument noun

A tomb or grave where the dead are buried. Also used for a statue or other object made to remember someone who has died.

The family kept flowers at the monument in the churchyard.

monumental adjective

Built to last and be remembered—like a monument or tomb. In Shakespeare, it often suggests something grand, enduring, or meant to commemorate someone important.

A monumental statue stands in the square to honor the dead.

mood noun

A state of mind or feeling — anger, displeasure, or a particular emotional cast. Also the form or manner in which something appears or is expressed.

His dark mood showed in every frown and angry word.

moon noun

The moon stands for things earthly and unreachable—night itself, or a distant goal you'll never grasp. It can also mean a month. In poetry, the moon often represents Diana, goddess of chastity and the hunt.

mooncalf noun

A deformed or monstrous creature, especially a misshapen baby or animal born with defects. The word carries disgust—it's an insult for something grotesque or unnatural.

Caliban is called a mooncalf, as if he's some freakish thing the moon itself produced.

moonish adjective

Changeable and unpredictable, like the moon's phases. Moody or inconstant.

His moonish temper made it hard to know what he'd do next.

moonshine noun

Something that looks real but has no substance—an illusion or trick of the light. Shakespeare uses it to mean anything false or misleading, whether a deceptive appearance or outright nonsense.

His promises were pure moonshine—he had no intention of keeping them.

moor noun

A person from North Africa, particularly Morocco. In Shakespeare's time, the term often referred to Muslim peoples of the Barbary Coast. It could be used neutrally as a geographical identity, though context and tone vary widely across the plays.

Othello is repeatedly called 'the Moor' — a label tied to his North African origin.

moorditch noun

A foul, stagnant ditch outside London's city walls. It ran through the marshy Moorfields area and collected sewage and waste.

A place so vile it became slang for any filthy, worthless location.

moorfields noun

An open area just outside London's Moorgate, where the city militia trained and drilled. A public space known for military exercises.

The trainbands gathered at Moorfields for their weekly practice.

mop verb

To make a grotesque face or grimace. Often paired with 'mow' — both words describe the exaggerated facial expressions of someone hamming it up or showing contempt.

The fool would mop and mow at the court, pulling faces to make the crowd laugh.

mope verb

To wander around in a confused or dazed state, not quite knowing what you're doing or where you're going. You're mentally lost.

He moped through the streets after hearing the news, barely aware of his surroundings.

moral noun

A hidden or symbolic meaning beneath the surface of a story or action. In Shakespeare's time, people loved to hunt for the deeper lesson or truth tucked inside a tale.

The moral of the play emerges only if you look past the plot to what it truly teaches.

moralize verb

To draw out a hidden meaning or lesson from something. When you moralize, you're interpreting what something really means or stands for — finding the deeper point inside it.

When a preacher moralizes a parable, he's explaining what God means us to learn from it.

moraller noun

Someone who teaches lessons about right and wrong, or who likes to point out the moral side of things. A preacher of ethics.

more adjective

Greater in amount, degree, or intensity. In the phrase "more and less," it means people of all social ranks together.

"I owe you a more generous repayment for your kindness."

more above adverb

In addition; what's more. Used to introduce another point on top of what you've just said.

He's late, and more above, he hasn't sent word.

moreover conjunction

In addition to what you've just heard. It signals that something else is true or relevant on top of what came before.

He is brave, and moreover, he is honest.

morisco noun

A dancer in a morris dance—a traditional English folk dance with bells, sticks, and rhythmic footwork, often performed at festivals and celebrations.

morn noun

The early part of the day, from sunrise until around noon. Shakespeare uses it mostly in poetry and verse.

The morn breaks, and we must ride before the sun climbs high.

morning adjective

Belonging to or happening in the early part of the day, from sunrise onward. Shakespeare uses it to describe things that carry the freshness, light, or quality of early morning.

The morning sun shone bright on the castle walls.

morris noun

A costumed folk dance with comic antics, popular at spring festivals. Also the name of a board game for two players, each with nine pieces.

morris-pike noun

A type of pike—a long spear used in battle—thought to come from North Africa or the Islamic world. The name itself reflects that foreign origin.

morrow noun

the next day; tomorrow

Sneak out of your father's house tomorrow night; And in the woods, a mile outside the town, Where I once met you with Helena, To celebrate May Day, I will wait for you there.

mort noun

A horn call played when a deer is killed during a hunt. The signal marks the end of the chase.

The huntsman sounds the mort as the stag falls.

mort de ma vie! interjection

A French oath expressing frustration or surprise. The phrase literally means "death of my life" and was used as a mild expletive in Shakespeare's time.

A character swears "mort de ma vie!" when shocked or annoyed by bad news.

mort dieu! interjection

A French oath invoking God's death — a shocking curse in Shakespeare's time. Characters use it to swear, protest, or express fury.

A furious nobleman might cry it out when betrayed or enraged.

mortal adjective

Subject to death, or causing death. In Shakespeare, it often means deadly or fatal—describing something that will kill you, or describing humans as creatures destined to die.

A mortal wound—one that will kill you.

mortal-staring adjective

Having the appearance of death itself. A face or look so grim or terrible it seems to promise doom.

The ghost's mortal-staring eyes made the guards freeze in terror.

mortality noun

Human life, or the fact that all humans die. Shakespeare often uses it to mean death itself, or the condition of being subject to death. The word carries a sense of fragility and inevitability.

mortally adverb

Like a human being; in the way that ordinary people do. Often used to stress that someone is subject to human limits—weakness, fear, or death.

A king may be mortally afraid, just like anyone else.

mortar-piece noun

A short, wide-mouthed cannon that fires heavy balls in a high arc. It was used to breach walls and rain fire down on fortifications.

The king's forces brought mortars to batter down the castle gates.

mortgage verb

To put something up as security for a loan. If you can't repay, the lender gets to keep it.

He mortgaged his lands to raise money for the war.

mortified adjective

Dead or deadened—either literally lifeless, or spiritually dead to worldly feeling. When Shakespeare uses it, he often means numbed, as if the soul has gone numb.

His wildness is mortified—he no longer feels the desires that once drove him.

mortifying adjective

Causing intense shame or humiliation. In older uses, it can mean deadly or involve painful self-denial (like fasting or harsh physical discipline to suppress worldly desires).

A mortifying mistake in front of the whole court.

mose verb

To suffer from glanders, a disease that affects horses and other animals, causing swelling and discharge. Shakespeare uses it as an insult, implying someone is diseased or decaying.

most adjective

Greatest in degree or amount. In phrases like "for the most," it means the majority or greatest part of something.

mot noun

A witty saying or clever turn of phrase. A short, memorable line designed to stick in the mind.

He delivered his mot with a smile, and the room laughed.

mote noun

A speck of dust or dirt so tiny it's barely visible—the kind you see floating in a sunbeam. Shakespeare uses it to mean any small flaw or blemish, especially a moral one.

A mote in your eye blinds you to the beam in your own.

moth noun

A small, troublesome creature—literally or as a figure for someone who nibbles away at things, a parasite living at someone else's expense. Sometimes a nickname for a tiny person.

mother noun

A source or origin of something—what gives it life or shape. Shakespeare uses it figuratively: a painting is the "mother" of a painted creature, meaning paint made it what it is. Also: a woman in charge of a convent; or in medical terms of the time, a fit of hysteria (thought to come from the womb).

mother-queen noun

A queen who is also the mother of the reigning monarch. She holds royal rank and often real political power.

The mother-queen advised her son on matters of state and succession.

motion noun

An inner impulse or desire—what makes you want to do something. Also: a proposal or suggestion put forward. In Shakespeare's time, people spoke of 'motions of the heart' or 'motions of the sense' the way we'd say 'urges' or 'impulses' today.

A rash motion seized him—he proposed marriage without thinking.

motive noun

A person or thing that causes someone to act. Shakespeare uses it to mean either the mover behind an action, or a moving part of the body—a limb or organ that makes motion possible.

The tongue is a slavish motive, always ready to speak.

motley noun

A jester's costume, made of cloth patched together in different colors. By extension, a fool or someone who acts the fool.

He wore motley and entertained the court with jokes and tricks.

motley-minded adjective

Foolish or scatter-brained. The word draws on motley — the patchwork costume of a fool or jester — to suggest a mind that's jumbled and unreliable.

A motley-minded man who believes every rumor he hears.

mought verb

Could; was able to. An old past-tense form of 'may'—like saying 'might' or 'could' in modern English.

He mought have stayed, but chose to leave instead.

mould noun

The physical form or shape of something — especially a body or face. Shakespeare uses it for how a person is made or built, the template they're cast from. Also: earth or soil, the basic material of the mortal world.

A face of noble mould — a face shaped by good breeding and nature.

moulten adjective

Having shed feathers, skin, or hair. A bird or animal that has gone through its natural molting season.

mounch verb

To chew or eat noisily. An older form of the word 'munch.'

The fool mounches on bread while the king speaks.

mount verb

To raise something up or set it in a higher position. Can mean to put a gun or cannon into firing position, or figuratively to stir up a feeling or intensity.

The fire mounts the liquor till it runs over.

mountant adjective

Going upward or climbing. Often used to describe something that rises or swells—like a wave building, or emotion building in intensity.

A mountant wave crashed against the ship's bow.

mountanto noun

A fencing move—an upward thrust or blow. It's an old term for an attack aimed at the upper body.

mountebank verb

To deceive or charm someone through trickery and false promises. Like a con artist or fast-talking salesman working a crowd.

He mountebankéd his way into her trust with flattery and lies.

mounting noun

The frame or setting that holds something in place—like a jewel in a ring, or a picture in its frame. Shakespeare uses it to mean the outer casing or structure that supports what matters most.

The mounting of the diamond was pure gold.

mouse noun

A playful, affectionate pet name for a woman—gentle and a bit flirtatious. Shakespeare's men use it much like we might use 'sweetheart' today.

He calls her his mouse, voice soft with tenderness.

mouse-hunt noun

A man who chases after women, especially in a sneaky or persistent way. The word treats women as prey to be hunted.

He's nothing but a mouse-hunt, always prowling after the maids.

mouth noun

A person's voice or way of speaking. Also: someone who speaks for another person, or who makes big promises without meaning them. Shakespeare sometimes uses it to mean the actual opening in your face, but usually he means how someone sounds or what they say.

He's just a mouth-friend—all flattery, no real loyalty.

mouthed adjective

Open-mouthed; gaping wide. Often used to describe something hollow or empty-looking, like a grave standing open.

move verb

To stir someone to anger or strong feeling. Also: to prompt or urge someone to act, or to suggest an idea or proposal.

Being moved, he strikes—anger got the better of him.

mover noun

Someone or something that sets things in motion. In Shakespeare's time, it could mean God moving the heavens, a cause that makes something happen, any living creature, or (sometimes with a wink) an active person — especially one who stirs up trouble or pursues something with energy.

moving adjective

Touching the heart or stirring the emotions. Something moving reaches you—makes you feel something real.

A moving speech can change how a person thinks.

mow noun, verb

A contemptuous face—a grimace meant to mock or insult. You mow at someone to show scorn. Often paired with grinning or other crude gestures.

The fool made mows at the nobleman to show his disgust.

moy noun

A made-up coin that Pistol invents by mishearing French. He mistakes the word for "me" as if it were money, which is peak Pistol—bluster and confusion wrapped into one.

much adverb

Used ironically to mean the opposite—really "not at all." Shakespeare also uses it to mean "a big deal" or "something serious," as in "think it much" (regard it as important or burdensome). Sometimes it means "roughly" or "about."

Is it not past two o'clock? And here much Orlando! (meaning: hardly Orlando at all)

mudded adjective

Covered or stuck in mud. Shakespeare uses it to describe someone or something that's gotten dirty and bogged down.

A mudded soldier stumbles back from the battlefield.

muddy adjective

Confused or unclear in thought. Your mind is muddied when you can't think straight.

My thoughts grew muddy after hearing so many conflicting stories.

muddy-mettled adjective

Lacking spirit or courage; slow to act or feel. Someone who doesn't have fire in them.

A muddy-mettled man won't stand up for himself when wronged.

muffled adjective

Blindfolded; having your eyes covered so you can't see. Shakespeare uses it to mean someone whose vision is blocked, either literally or figuratively.

A muffled prisoner led to the execution block.

muffler noun

A cloth wrapped around someone's eyes to blind them. Often used to muffle or conceal.

They tied a muffler over his eyes so he couldn't see where they were taking him.

mulier noun

A woman. Shakespeare uses this Latin word when he wants to sound learned or formal, often in legal or scholarly contexts.

mulled adjective

Sad, worn down, or lifeless. Someone who is mulled has lost their spark.

After months of bad news, he felt mulled and couldn't muster the energy to leave the house.

multiplying medicine noun

A magical substance alchemists claimed could turn cheap metals into gold or silver. It was supposed to multiply the amount of precious metal you already had.

The alchemist promised his patron that multiplying medicine would make lead turn to gold.

multipotent adjective

Extremely powerful; having great might or strength. Shakespeare uses this to describe rulers, forces, or qualities of overwhelming power.

A multipotent king commands armies and bends nations to his will.

multitudinous adjective

Enormous in number or quantity. Also used to mean belonging to ordinary people rather than the elite.

The multitudinous seas — oceans so vast they seem endless.

mum interjection

A word you say to demand silence or to keep quiet yourself. It's a call for hush.

Cry 'mum' and nobody speaks another word.

mumble-news noun

Someone who spreads gossip or rumors. A person who carries tales from one person to another.

Don't trust him with secrets—he's a mumble-news who'll have it all over town by nightfall.

mummy noun

Dead flesh, especially when preserved or used in folk remedies and magic. Shakespeare uses it as a grotesque image of death and decay.

A mountain of mummy — corpses piled high.

muniments noun

Household goods and furniture. The movable items that fill and outfit a room or home.

The lord furnished the castle with rich muniments—tapestries, chairs, tables, and chests.

munition noun

Military supplies and weapons, especially ammunition. In Shakespeare's time, the word covers everything from gunpowder to arrows to armor.

The fort's munition ran low after weeks of siege.

mural noun

A wall, or something that forms or belongs to a wall. The word appears rarely in Shakespeare and the text is sometimes uncertain.

murder noun

The unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought; also used figuratively for harm or destruction of something valued.

He screams for help and calls for help from Athens.

murdering-piece noun

A small cannon or mortar that fired short-range shots. The term was used in Shakespeare's time, though 'murderer' was the more common name for this weapon.

The ship's murdering-piece could sweep the deck with grapeshot.

murderous, adjective

Deadly or cruel; capable of killing. In Shakespeare's time, often spelled 'murtherous' and pronounced as two syllables.

A murderous thought crossed his mind as he reached for the dagger.

mure verb

To wall something in or enclose it with a barrier. Shakespeare uses it rarely, mostly in the sense of trapping or confining someone behind stone.

They mured the gate shut, leaving no way out.

murk noun

Darkness or gloom. A thick, shadowy murk—the kind where you can barely see your hand in front of your face.

The ghost appeared out of the murk at midnight.

murmur noun

Rumour or gossip, especially when it's being quietly spread from person to person. When something is "in murmur," people are talking about it in hushed tones.

The scandal was fresh in murmur around the court.

murrain noun

A plague or pestilence, especially one that strikes livestock. Shakespeare uses it as a curse—"a murrain on you" means something like "may disease strike you."

A murrain on all cowards!

muscadel noun

A strong, sweet wine made from muscatel grapes. It was a luxury drink in Shakespeare's time, often served at feasts and formal occasions.

A gentleman might offer muscadel to impress a guest at dinner.

muscat noun

A type of cat with a strong musky scent, mentioned in Shakespeare but more of a curiosity than a common animal in his time. The word sometimes appears in bawdy wordplay.

muscovite noun

A person from Moscow or Russia. In Shakespeare's time, Russians were still relatively exotic to English audiences, so a Muscovite could mean any Russian trader or ambassador.

muse verb

To wonder about something, or to think hard on it. Sometimes it means to grumble or complain under your breath.

I cannot too much muse on such strange shapes.

muset noun

A gap or opening in a hedge or fence that hunted animals use to escape. Hares especially rely on these passages to slip through when chased.

The hunter knew the hare would bolt for the muset in the hedge.

music noun

A group of musicians playing together. Also used to describe anything sweet, pleasing, or harmonious—like when someone's words or manner feel delightful to hear.

The musicians arrived to play for the feast.

musk noun

A strong, musky scent that comes from a gland in the male musk-deer. In Shakespeare's time, it was prized as a perfume and luxury ingredient.

A lady might dab musk on her wrists to smell fine at court.

musk-cat noun

A small deer from Asia that produces musk, a strong fragrance used in perfumes and medicines. Shakespeare's contemporaries prized musk highly as a luxury scent.

The lady's gloves were perfumed with musk-cat oil, a sign of wealth.

musk-rose noun

A climbing or trailing rose with big, sweetly scented flowers. Shakespeare mentions it as the flower of romance and beauty.

The musk-rose grows wild and spreads across garden walls, releasing its perfume at dusk.

muss noun

A children's game where small objects are thrown on the ground and the players scramble to grab them. It was popular in Shakespeare's time.

mussel-shell noun

Someone who stands around with their mouth hanging open. The comparison comes from how a mussel shell gapes when it opens.

must verb

Have to go or leave—often the destination is understood rather than stated. When used in past tense, it can carry a note of regret or resignation about something that had to happen.

I must after him—meaning I have to go after him.

muster verb

To gather or assemble, especially soldiers for military service. It can also mean to put on display or show yourself.

The king mustered his forces before the battle.

muster-book noun

A record that lists soldiers and their details—names, weapons, assignments. Military officers used it to track who was available and ready for battle.

The captain checked the muster-book to see which men could be sent to the front.

muster-file noun

A list of soldiers or crew members, usually taken during inspection or roll-call. Shakespeare uses it to mean the actual people enrolled, not just the record itself.

The captain checked his muster-file to see who was fit for battle.

musty adjective

Stale or worn out from age or lack of use. Something musty has lost its freshness—like old air in a closed room, or ideas that have been around so long they've gone flat.

A musty old proverb that nobody really believes anymore.

mute noun

A silent attendant or servant, especially one who doesn't speak. In Shakespeare's time, people imagined such figures in Eastern courts and households.

mutine noun, verb

A rebel or mutineer—someone who revolts against authority. As a verb, to mutiny or turn against a leader. Shakespeare often uses it figuratively for any kind of rebellion, even internal ones.

A soldier who mutines against his captain risks execution.

mutiny noun, verb

As a noun: conflict or quarreling, often internal. As a verb: to fight, quarrel, or be at odds with someone—or with yourself.

Her passions mutiny against her reason.

mutton noun

Sheep meat. In Shakespeare's time, also slang for a loose woman — the insult plays on mutton as cheap food.

A man might call a woman 'mutton' to mock her morals.

mutual adjective

Shared between two people or things; felt or done by both sides equally. In Shakespeare, it often means intimate or close—a connection that goes both ways.

Their mutual love meant they trusted each other completely.

mutuality noun

A close, intimate bond between two people. In Shakespeare, it usually means physical or emotional closeness in a relationship.

mutually adverb

In a shared or two-way manner. Both people feel it, do it, or experience it equally.

They loved each other mutually—neither one gave more than the other.

my pronoun

In direct address, placed between an adjective and the person you're speaking to. It's an old way of showing respect or affection—think of it as part of a formal greeting.

Good my lords, hear what I have to say.

mynheers noun

A Dutch title of respect for men, like 'sir' or 'mister.' Shakespeare uses it to evoke Dutch characters or to add local flavor to a scene.

myrmidon noun

A soldier or follower, especially a loyal one who will do whatever his leader asks. The word comes from Greek myth—Achilles' troops at Troy were called Myrmidons, and they became legendary for their fierce obedience.

A general surrounded by myrmidons will never hear a word of doubt.

mystery noun

A secret about who you are or what you know—something private that makes you who you are. Also: a craft or trade, or the skill that comes with practicing it.

A magician guards the mystery of her tricks like gold.