capital

Definition

  • noun: the uppermost member of a column or pilaster crowning the shaft and taking the weight of the entablature
  • noun: money, property, etc., that is used to start or operate a business
  • adjective: in the form A, B, C, etc., rather than a, b, c
  • sometimes used figuratively
  • synonyms: controlling, leading, prominent

Examples

  • She's been accused of trying to 'make capital out of' the tragedy. [=of trying to use the tragedy to her advantage; of trying to benefit from the tragedy]

  • Homicide that occurs during the course of an attempted kidnapping is a 'capital' crime in some states.

  • Stock sales resulted in millions of dollars in 'capital gains' for the company.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) back at the Stade de Gerland. Now attention switches to the Bernab'u. He's really improved his form lately. Great quick feet again. The stakes could not be higher in this Spanish capital. In comes Beckham's cross. Harris could be in. Oh, Gavin Harris! Nice shot! Gavin Harris (..)
    2007 Goal II: Living the Dream