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.

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