lewis

noun

lew·​is ˈlü-əs How to pronounce lewis (audio)
: an iron dovetailed tenon that is made in sections, can be fitted into a dovetail mortise, and is used in hoisting large stones

Word History

Etymology

probably from the name Lewis

First Known Use

1743, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lewis was in 1743

Dictionary Entries Near lewis

Cite this Entry

“Lewis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lewis. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

Lewis

adjective
Lew·​is ˈlü-əs How to pronounce Lewis (audio)
: of or relating to the Lewis blood groups
Lewis antigens

Biographical Definition

Lewis 1 of 8

biographical name (1)

Lew·​is ˈlü-əs How to pronounce Lewis (audio)
Cecil Day see day-lewis

Lewis

2 of 8

biographical name (2)

C(live) S(taples) 1898–1963 English novelist and essayist

Lewis

3 of 8

biographical name (3)

Edward B. 1918–2004 American biologist

Lewis

4 of 8

biographical name (4)

John Llewellyn 1880–1969 American labor leader

Lewis

5 of 8

biographical name (5)

Matthew Gregory 1775–1818 Monk Lewis English author

Lewis

6 of 8

biographical name (6)

Meriwether 1774–1809 American explorer

Lewis

7 of 8

biographical name (7)

(Harry) Sinclair 1885–1951 American novelist

Lewis

8 of 8

biographical name (8)

(Percy) Wyndham 1882–1957 British painter and author

More from Merriam-Webster on lewis

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!