Sent: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
January 8, 2025

1. Sent (verb): To cause to go or be taken to a particular destination.
2. Sent (adjective): Having been dispatched or conveyed.
3. Sent (noun): A state of being moved emotionally or mentally.
4. Sent (adjective, slang): Extremely affected, excited, or enthusiastic about something.

"Sent" is a versatile term in the English language, commonly used as a verb to describe the act of dispatching something or someone. As an adjective, it describes something that has been delivered or conveyed. Additionally, in a more informal or slang context, "sent" can describe an emotional state of being particularly excited or moved by an event, person, or experience. Whether used formally or informally, the term plays a crucial role in communication. Keep reading to discover the various uses and definitions of this word.

"Sent" Definition: What Does "Sent" Mean?

"Sent" is used across various contexts and has a few different meanings depending on how it is applied. Below, we explore the definitions and their nuances.

Definition of "Sent": To Dispatch

When "sent" is used as a verb, it refers to the act of dispatching or conveying someone or something to a specific destination.

Definition of "Sent": Delivered or Conveyed

As an adjective, "sent" describes something that has been delivered, dispatched, or forwarded.

Definition of "Sent": Emotionally Moved

"Sent" can also be used to describe an emotional or mental state of being moved, excited, or deeply affected by an experience.

Definition of "Sent": Enthusiastic or Excited (Slang)

In informal language, "sent" is often used to describe a heightened emotional state where someone is particularly excited or enthusiastic about something.

Parts of Speech

"Sent" is most commonly used as a verb, but it can also function as an adjective or even as a noun in specific contexts. Its versatility allows it to fit into various grammatical roles. As a noun, it represents a state of being emotionally or mentally moved. As an adjective, it describes something that has already been delivered or dispatched.

How to Pronounce "Sent"?

"Sent" is an easy word to say, made up of just one syllable. Start by making a soft "s" sound, like the first sound in "sit." Then, pronounce the short "e" sound, like the vowel in "set." Finally, finish with the "nt" sound, where you touch the tip of your tongue briefly to the roof of your mouth for the "n" and stop the air for the "t" sound. The whole word should come out in a quick, smooth way.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /sɛnt/

Synonyms of "Sent": Other Ways to Say "Sent"

Here are some common synonyms for the term "sent" that can be used in its place depending on the context:

  • Dispatched
  • Conveyed
  • Forwarded
  • Delivered
  • Transferred
  • Issued
  • Shipped
  • Transmitted
  • Submitted
  • Expedited

Antonyms of "Sent": Other Ways to Say "Sent"

Below are antonyms for "sent" that imply the opposite action or state:

  • Received
  • Withheld
  • Held back
  • Retained
  • Stopped
  • Kept
  • Detained

Examples of "Sent" in a Sentence

Below are ten examples of how the word "sent" can be used in various contexts.

Notice how the word is used to convey different actions and emotions:

  1. He sent the letter last night.
  2. The package was sent to the wrong address.
  3. She was sent home from school due to illness.
  4. They sent out invitations for the event next month.
  5. He was deeply sent by the heartfelt gesture.
  6. The message was sent without any delay.
  7. My boss sent me the new project details via email.
  8. The teacher sent the student to the principal’s office.
  9. The charity sent supplies to the disaster-stricken area.
  10. We were sent over the edge with excitement after winning the game.

Frequency of Use

"Sent" is a high-frequency word in both written and spoken English, especially as it relates to communication and logistics. Its usage has remained consistent over time, making it a common term in business, personal communication, and everyday language.

Variants of "Sent"

The following variants are formed from the same Latin root sentire, which means "to feel" or "to perceive."

  1. Sending: The act of dispatching or conveying something in real-time.
  2. Sentimental: Relating to emotions, often used to describe feelings of tenderness or nostalgia.
  3. Sentient: Referring to the capacity to feel or perceive things, often linked to consciousness.

Related Terms to "Sent"

Below are related terms that connect to the concept of "sent":

  1. Send
  2. Sender
  3. Send-off
  4. Transmit
  5. Shipment

Etymology: History and Origins of "Sent"

The term "sent" comes from the Latin verb sentire, which means "to feel" or "to perceive." Over time, the word evolved to encompass the meaning of dispatching or conveying something. Its use in Middle English around the 14th century primarily referred to messages or items being conveyed over distances.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Sent"

The following derivatives and compounds also stem from the Latin root sentire, which means "to feel" or "to perceive."

  1. Resent: To feel bitterness or anger towards something.
  2. Sentiment: A view or attitude toward a situation or event, often related to emotions.
  3. Consent: Agreement or permission for something to happen based on shared understanding or feeling.

Common Misspellings of "Sent"

Below are some common misspellings of "sent":

  1. Cent
  2. Scent
  3. Sente
  4. Sentt
  5. Sented

10 Idioms Similar to "Sent"

Here are idioms related to the meaning of "sent":

  1. Send someone packing
  2. Send shivers down someone’s spine
  3. Send in the clowns
  4. Send out a message
  5. Sent on a wild goose chase
  6. Sent up a trial balloon
  7. Sent into orbit
  8. Sent from above
  9. Sent with love
  10. Sent to Coventry

10 Common Questions About "Sent"

1. Is "sent" a verb?

Yes, it is commonly used as a verb.

2. Can "sent" be used as an adjective?

Yes, "sent" can describe something that has been delivered or conveyed.

3. What is the past tense of "send"?

The past tense of "send" is "sent."

4. What is the slang meaning of "sent"?

In slang, "sent" can describe someone who is excited or emotionally moved.

5. How do you spell "sent"?

It is spelled "s-e-n-t."

6. What is a common mistake people make when spelling "sent"?

Some confuse it with "cent" or "scent."

7. Can "sent" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "sent" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing.

8. What is a synonym for "sent" in logistics?

Dispatched or delivered are common synonyms.

9. What is a derivative of "sent"?

Resent and sentiment are derivatives.

10. Is "sent" the same as "send"?

No, "sent" is the past tense form of "send."

Conclusion

The term "sent" refers to the act of dispatching something or someone to a specific destination, and it also describes a state of being emotionally moved or excited in certain contexts. This versatile term is commonly used in both formal and informal language, whether referring to logistics or emotions. Start incorporating "sent" into your language use today to improve your communication!

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