What does level mean?
A “level” is a surface or position without noticeable slope, as well as a degree, standard, or stage in a larger scale. The word can describe the evenness of a surface, the height of two places, the intensity of a substance or experience, or the fairness of a situation. As an adjective, “level” means flat, horizontal, equal, steady, or, in informal contexts, candid and fair. As a verb, it means to make something flat or equal, as in leveling a surface, or to direct an action or attack at someone. It also has a useful figurative sense: a problem can be “leveled,” a playing field can be “leveled,” and someone may speak on a “level” with another person. Although “level” can describe an object’s orientation, it more commonly means truly horizontal and even.
A horizontal surface, or a position or degree marked on a scale; also, a standard of comparison or the equal standing of people or things.
"The trail climbed to a higher level before descending into the valley."
To make something level or even, or to bring two or more people or things to the same standard or position.
"The committee worked to level the differences between the two proposals."
Flat, horizontal, even, or equal; in informal use, direct and fair in manner.
"They gave us a level account of what had happened."
In a flat, even, or horizontal manner; directly or squarely at someone.
"The arrow flew level across the field."
The plural is used for different heights, degrees, stages, or standards, as well as for separate levels of a structure or organization.
"The course is available at several levels, from beginner to advanced."
The word “level” began with the idea of a balance: its Latin ancestor referred to a small balance or the balance beam used to weigh things.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does level come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Anglo-French nivel, a variant of niveau, which ultimately comes from Latin libella, meaning “small balance” or “balance beam.” The word originally referred to a horizontal line or a surface tested with a level instrument. Its modern meanings about equality, fairness, and standard developed through the idea of bringing two things to the same height or position.
Related word forms
How level is actually used
The word is highly versatile and is common in both formal and informal English. In expressions such as “level with,” it can indicate equality or a position at the same height; in “a level playing field,” it emphasizes fairness. “Level” as an adjective meaning honest or direct is sometimes informal, especially in the phrase “be level with someone.”
Easily confused with level
A level is a flat surface, equal position, or degree, whereas a libel is a published statement that wrongly damages someone's reputation.