verb
definition
To be strong; to have power (over).
definition
(auxiliary) To be able; can.
definition
To be able to go.
definition
(modal auxiliary verb, defective) To have permission to, be allowed. Used in granting permission and in questions to make polite requests.
example
you may smoke outside; may I sit there?
synonyms
definition
(modal auxiliary verb, defective) Expressing a present possibility; possibly.
example
he may be lying; Schrödinger's cat may or may not be in the box
synonyms
definition
(subjunctive present, defective) Expressing a wish (with present subjunctive effect).
example
may you win; may the weather be sunny
synonyms
definition
Used in modesty, courtesy, or concession, or to soften a question or remark.