“might” – English explanatory dictionary

noun a force ○ She pulled at it with all her might, and still could not move it. ○ All the might of the armed forces is displayed during the National Day parade. ■ modal verb 1. to be possible ○ Take an umbrella, it might rain. ○ If he isn’t here, he might be waiting outside. ○ I might call in to see you tomorrow if I have time. ○ That was a stupid thing to do – you might have been killed! ○ They might win, but I wouldn’t bet on it. 2. should have (done) ○ You might try and stay awake next time. □ he might have done something to help it would have been better if he had done something to help □ you might have told me I wish you had told me ○ You might have told me you’d invited her as well. 3. asking a question politely ○ Might I have another cup of tea? (NOTE: The negative is might not, usually mightn’t. Note also that might is always used with other verbs and is not followed by to.) mightn’t short form might not

(mit), imp. of May. [AS. meahte, mihte.]

n. [AS. meaht, miht, from the root of magan to be able, E. may; akin to D. magt, OS. maht, G. macht, Icel. mattr, Goth. mahts. rad.103. See May, v.] Force or power of any kind, whether of body or mind; energy or intensity of purpose, feeling, or action; means or resources to effect an object; strength; force; power; ability; capacity. “What so strong,
But wanting rest, will also want of might?” Spenser. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Deut. vi. 5. With might and main. See under 2d Main.