Definition of meet with

The Origin of the Phrase "Meet with" The phrase "meet with" is a phrasal verb that combines the words "meet" and "with." It has been used in English for centuries to indicate an interaction that takes place between two or more people or things. The origin of the phrase can be traced back to the Old English word "mettan," which means to eat or drink together. The literal meaning of "meet" at that time referred to the act of encountering someone or something. Therefore, the phrase "mettan with" essentially meant sharing a meal or beverage with someone. Over time, the meaning of "meet with" evolved. The verb "meet" transformed from denoting an encounter between people to becoming a more general term to indicate a rendezvous. Similarly, the phrase "with" also acquiring a broader significance, as it now denotes the person, thing, or circumstance involved in an encounter, interaction, or outcome. In its current usage, "meet with" conveys the idea of encountering or experiencing something, whether it is a positive or negative outcome. For example, "She met with the president to discuss international affairs" or "The project didn't meet with the expected results." In conclusion, the phrase "meet with" is a combination of words with a history spanning centuries. Its transformation from a simple verb and preposition has yielded a versatile and useful phrasing in the English language.