level: meaning, pronunciation and examples

Meaning

1
The height, amount, or degree of something relative to a scale or standard.
- High stress levels can interfere with your sleep patterns.
- Did you check the water level before running the test?
2
A position, rank, or stage in a scale, system, or organization.
- She was recently promoted to an executive level within the company.
- How many levels of approval does this purchase require?
3
A tool used to determine whether a surface is horizontal or vertical.
- He placed a spirit level on the shelf to see if it leaned.
- Do you need a laser level to hang those frames straight?

level with
to speak frankly and honestly with someone
He finally decided to level with his manager about the delays.
on the level
honest, sincere, or legitimate
I investigated the investment offer to make sure it was on the level.
level-headed
calm, sensible, and capable of good judgment
She remained level-headed throughout the entire crisis.
do one's level best
to try as hard as possible
We did our level best to finish the project on schedule.
level playing field
a situation that is fair for everyone
The new rules create a level playing field for small businesses.

Having a flat, horizontal surface without bumps, tilts, or variations in height.
- Make sure the table sits on a level floor before assembling the shelf.
- Are the two pictures completely level with each other?

1
To make something flat, even, or horizontal.
- Workers leveled the ground before pouring the concrete foundation.
- Can this machine level an uneven lawn?
2
To completely destroy or flatten a building, structure, or area.
- The tornado leveled several houses along the edge of town.
- Was the old warehouse leveled to make room for parking?

When this means “flatten an area or surface”

“level it out.”

They leveled the ground before starting construction.

When this means “completely demolish a structure”

“level it.”

A controlled explosion leveled the building in seconds.