C1noun1K

Mill

UK /["/mɪl/"]/US /["/mɪl/"]/

Definition

a building fitted with equipment for grinding grain into flour; a machine for grinding grain

In simple words: A machine that grinds grain into flour or a place where this happens.

Examples

  • The old mill has been converted into apartments.
  • The mill can be seen grinding wheat.
  • The river was harnessed to drive many mills.
  • a **cotton/cloth/steel/paper mill**
  • **mill owners/workers**
  • a textile/woollen mill
  • a northern mill town
  • a pepper mill
  • They really put me through the mill in my interview.
  • Political sex scandals are all grist to the mill of the tabloid newspapers.

Usage notes

Use 'mill' when referring to a place where grain is processed. It can also refer to machinery. Avoid using it in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'mill' — think of a big wheel grinding grain into flour.

Collocations

  • corn
  • flour
  • grain
  • operate
  • convert
  • restore
  • grind something
  • stone
  • wheel
  • cotton
  • feed
  • jute
  • operate
  • own
  • run
  • produce something
  • town
  • buildings
  • hand

Synonyms

  • gristmill
  • factory
  • plant
  • workshop
  • sawmill

Antonyms

  • stop
  • halt

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'mole' when referring to animal or place.
  • Using 'mill' when referring to a process instead of the place.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'meal'.