medium

I. noun (plural mediums or media) Etymology: Latin, from neuter of medius middle — more at mid Date: 1593 1. a. something in a middle position b. a middle condition or degree ; mean 2. a means of effecting or conveying something: as a. (1) a substance regarded as the means of transmission of a force or effect (2) a surrounding or enveloping substance (3) the tenuous material (as gas and dust) in space that exists outside large agglomerations of matter (as stars) <

interstellar medium

> b. plural usually media (1) a channel or system of communication, information, or entertainment — compare mass medium (2) a publication or broadcast that carries advertising (3) a mode of artistic expression or communication (4) something (as a magnetic disk) on which information may be stored c. go-between, intermediary d. plural mediums an individual held to be a channel of communication between the earthly world and a world of spirits e. material or technical means of artistic expression 3. a. a condition or environment in which something may function or flourish b. plural media (1) a nutrient system for the artificial cultivation of cells or organisms and especially bacteria (2) a fluid or solid in which organic structures are placed (as for preservation or mounting) c. a liquid with which pigment is mixed by a painter Usage: see media II. adjective Date: 1711 intermediate in quantity, quality, position, size, or degree