matter 1 of 2

noun

ˈma-tər How to pronounce matter (audio)
Definition of matternext
1
as in topic
a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition) that is not relevant to the matter under discussion

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in thing
something to be dealt with we must take care of this matter before it becomes a real problem

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in mail
communications or parcels sent or carried through the postal system first-class matter

Synonyms & Similar Words
4
as in problem
something that requires thought and skill for resolution I've been thinking about the matter all night, and I believe I have a solution

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
5
as in vicinity
an approximate amount, extent, or degree a simple meal that can be prepared in a matter of 20 to 30 minutes

Synonyms & Similar Words

matter

2 of 2

verb

as in to mean
to be of importance she believes that doing well in school really does matter

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of matter
Noun
Saudi Arabia does not have formal diplomatic ties with Israel, but the countries have long cooperated on security and intelligence matters through alternative channels. — Democrat-Gazette Staff From Wire Reports, Arkansas Online, 2 Oct. 2026 Do read columnist Michael Cunningham’s thoughts on the matter — but in the meantime, some basics. — Tyler Estep, AJC.com, 2 Oct. 2026
Verb
Sure, the answers will probably matter, and the possibilities could be varying degrees of satisfying or disappointing. — Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 28 Sep. 2026 This matters beyond technology because XLK is by far the largest sector within the SPX. — Frank Cappelleri, CNBC, 27 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for matter
Recent Examples of Synonyms for matter
  1. topic
  2. thing
  3. mail
  4. problem
  5. vicinity
  6. mean
  7. question
  8. issue
Noun
  • Both candidates wove personal attacks and affordability points into questions that a panel of journalists from across the state asked on a variety of topics.
    — Anna Giaritelli, The Washington Examiner, 9 Oct. 2026
  • Instead of responding with just text, ChatGPT will now add graphics, tappable buttons, forms, charts, and interactive tools to make complex topics easier to understand.
    — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2026
Definition of topic
Noun
  • Those who study these things say an export ban would surely backfire.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Oct. 2026
  • The concierge is very knowledgeable and can get guests access to things like dinner or event reservations during Sundance Film Festival, and similar feats that otherwise would be impossible—and take that from me as an ex-local.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
Definition of thing
Noun
  • The polling punctuates widespread Democratic warnings about Trump laying the groundwork for interfering in the midterm elections by asserting more control over mail-in voting and dispatching Justice Department monitors to polling places.
    — Morgan Chalfant, semafor.com, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Bakker was indicted in 1988 for mail fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy after an investigation of PTL's finances.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of mail
Noun
  • Although the problem warrants a systemic fix, the best short-term solution is for hospitals to create more nuanced documentation tools, and for clinicians to exercise judgment when using them.
    — Leah Pierson, STAT, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Pennsylvania and New York are not the only states with a growing problem.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Oct. 2026
Definition of problem
Noun
  • In November 2025, regulators issued violations to contractors there for using equipment during a pipeline pressure test that is prohibited within 1,000 feet of a school, of which there are three in the immediate vicinity.
    — Blanca Begert, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2026
  • According to the National Weather Service, evacuations were underway for hotels in the vicinity along Black Horse Pike in New Jersey earlier this morning.
    — Kyle Reiman, ABC News, 26 Sep. 2026
Definition of vicinity
Verb
  • Amid the backlash, the White House has defended the television spots as public service announcements meant to educate voters and promote patriotism.
    — David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 6 Oct. 2026
  • To be clear, uncertainty does not mean all outcomes are created equal.
    — Nathan Gonzales CQ-Roll Call, Arkansas Online, 6 Oct. 2026
Definition of mean
Noun
  • His office did not immediately respond to questions from The Associated Press regarding a possible snap election.
    — JOSEPH WILSON, Arkansas Online, 3 Oct. 2026
  • The question should be how technology can make returning it cheap enough that the government no longer has an excuse.
    — Mark Lewyn, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of question
Noun
  • Meanwhile, the proliferation of large new data centers is rivaling inflation and the Iran war as midterm political issues--and, like them, is hurting the Republicans.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Oct. 2026
  • With the press world’s help, Omar Jamal was anointed as the authoritative voice on all political issues concerning Minnesota’s Somali community and the Somali population at large in America.
    — Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of issue

Phrases Containing matter

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matted
matter
mattered
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Cite this Entry

“Matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/matter. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on matter

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about matter

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