plus

Pronunciation: /plʌs/

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of plus

An advantage or positive feature, often indicating something additional or supplementary that enhances or improves a situation or outcome.

Origin of plus

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: plus

Original meaning: more

How it evolved: In Latin, 'plus' indicated quantity ('more'). Over time, its meaning expanded in English to include the idea of advantage or enhancement.

Originally borrowed from Latin, the word 'plus' evolved in English to signify addition and, metaphorically, something advantageous or extra.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember plus

Picture a math equation where the plus sign (+) adds value to the overall result, symbolizing an advantage or benefit.

Synonyms for plus

  • advantage
  • benefit
  • asset
  • bonus
  • perk
  • upside
  • gain
  • pro

Antonyms of plus

plus in a Sentence

  1. The ability to speak multiple languages is a significant plus in the global job market.
  2. The spacious backyard was a definite plus when they decided to buy the house.
  3. His vast network of professional connections proved to be a plus in securing the funding for the project.

plus in Literature & Culture

The word 'plus' is often used in motivational speeches and self-help literature to emphasize the importance of adding positive elements to one's life and mindset.

Usage Notes

The word 'plus' is often used in informal contexts to highlight advantages or additional features. Be mindful not to confuse it with its mathematical usage in formal writing unless specifically referring to arithmetic.

Why plus Matters for GRE & SAT

Understanding 'plus' is essential for GRE test-takers as it often appears in reading comprehension passages to highlight benefits or favorable outcomes, making it a key word in discerning tone and argument structure.

Word Family

surplus (noun)
An amount that is more than needed; excess.
positive (adjective)
Characterized by the presence of qualities or features that are considered good or beneficial.
increment (noun)
An increase or addition, especially one of a series.

Did You Know?

  • The mathematical use of the plus sign (+) dates back to the 15th century, symbolizing addition.
  • In everyday speech, 'plus' is frequently used to introduce additional points or items, making it a versatile word in English communication.
  • The word 'plus' has been adapted into various branding slogans to signify improvement, such as 'Disney Plus' and 'Google Plus.'
  • surplus
  • enhance
  • pacify — bring peace to or calm someone down
  • painstaking — Done with or employing great care and thoroughness
  • palpable — tangible, perceptible, or clearly noticeable
  • paltry — of little monetary worth; trivial

More Vocabulary Words Starting with P

  • pacify — bring peace to or calm someone down
  • pacify — bring peace to or calm someone down
  • painstaking — Done with or employing great care and thoroughness
  • painstaking — done with careful attention to detail
  • painstaking — done with careful attention to detail
  • palpable — tangible, perceptible, or clearly noticeable
  • palpable — So intense as to seem almost tangible
  • palpable — tangible, perceptible, or clearly noticeable
  • paltry — of little monetary worth; trivial
  • paltry — of little monetary worth; trivial