Definition of "aid" in English

noun

1. (uncountable) Help; assistance; succor, relief.

   • He came to my aid when I was foundering.

2. (countable) A helper; an assistant.

3. (countable) Something which helps; a material source of help.

   • Slimming aids include dietary supplements and appetite suppressants.

4. (countable, British) An historical subsidy granted to the crown by Parliament for an extraordinary purpose, such as a war effort.

5. (countable, British) An exchequer loan.

6. (countable, law) A pecuniary tribute paid by a vassal to his feudal lord on special occasions.

7. (countable) Alternative form of aide (“an aide-de-camp”).

   • Suddenly, the general's aid entered the room and walked in a straight line, coming to a halt in front of the desk, standing at attention, waiting for the general to recognize him, allowing the aid to speak.

8. (countable, chiefly in the plural, horse racing) The rider's use of hands, legs, voice, etc. to control the horse.

verb

1. (transitive) To provide support to; to further the progress of; to help; to assist.

2. (climbing) To climb with the use of aids such as pitons.