The Collaborative International Dictionary
Main \Main\, n. [AS. m[ae]gen strength, power, force; akin to OHG. magan, Icel. megin, and to E. may, v. [root]103. See May, v.]
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Strength; force; might; violent effort. [Obs., except in certain phrases.]
There were in this battle of most might and main.
--R. of Gl.He 'gan advance, With huge force, and with importable main.
--Spenser. -
The chief or principal part; the main or most important thing. [Obs., except in special uses.]
Resolved to rest upon the title of Lancaster as the main, and to use the other two . . . but as supporters.
--Bacon. -
Specifically:
The great sea, as distinguished from an arm, bay, etc.; the high sea; the ocean. ``Struggling in the main.''
--Dryden.The continent, as distinguished from an island; the mainland. ``Invaded the main of Spain.''
--Bacon.-
principal duct or pipe, as distinguished from lesser ones; esp. (Engin.), a principal pipe leading to or from a reservoir; as, a fire main.
Forcing main, the delivery pipe of a pump.
For the main, or In the main, for the most part; in the greatest part.
With might and main, or With all one's might and main, with all one's strength; with violent effort.
With might and main they chased the murderous fox.
--Dryden.