matches
Translation
matches, games
Examples
I need some matches to light the fire.
I need some matches to light the fire.
We watched two football matches yesterday.
We watched two soccer games yesterday.
Grammar Patterns
((a box of)) matches a container full of matches I bought a box of matches.
((a soccer/tennis)) match a game of a particular sport The tennis match was exciting.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (fire) lighter; (sports) game, contest, competition
Etymology
From Old English 'mæcca' meaning 'a mate, companion', leading to 'a pair'. The fire-starting tool sense evolved from the need to pair the stick with a striking surface. The sports sense is from pairing two competitors.
Memory Tips
Connect the two meanings through the idea of a 'pair' or 'pairing'. A fire match needs a striking surface to work, and a sports match needs two opposing sides.