2. (Chem.) A prefix denoting:
(a) Other; duplicate, corresponding to; resembling; hence,
metameric; as, meta-arabinic, metaldehyde.
(b) (Organic Chem.) That two replacing radicals, in the
benzene nucleus, occupy the relative positions of 1
and 3, 2 and 4, 3 and 5, 4 and 6, 5 and 1, or 6 and 2;
as, metacresol, etc. See {Ortho-}, and {Para-}.
(c) (Inorganic Chem.) Having less than the highest number
of hydroxyl groups; -- said of acids; as,
metaphosphoric acid. Also used adjectively.
2. To come in collision with; to confront in conflict; to
encounter hostilely; as, they met the enemy and defeated
them; the ship met opposing winds and currents.
3. To come into the presence of without contact; to come
close to; to intercept; to come within the perception,
influence, or recognition of; as, to meet a train at a
junction; to meet carriages or persons in the street; to
meet friends at a party; sweet sounds met the ear.
His daughter came out to meet him. --Judg. xi.
34.
4. To perceive; to come to a knowledge of; to have personal
acquaintance with; to experience; to suffer; as, the eye
met a horrid sight; he met his fate.
Of vice or virtue, whether blest or curst, Which
meets contempt, or which compassion first. --Pope.
5. To come up to; to be even with; to equal; to match; to
satisfy; to ansver; as, to meet one's expectations; the
supply meets the demand.
{To meet half way}, literally, to go half the distance
between in order to meet (one); hence, figuratively, to
yield or concede half of the difference in order to effect
a compromise or reconciliation with.