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Definition collect in British English

collect verb

verb
/kəˈlekt/
1

to get things and keep them together for a particular reason

Example

A lot of families collect newspapers for recycling.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to get and keep objects because they are interesting or valuable

Example

He collects stamps.

Example

I didn't know she collected modern art.

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1.2

to get a supply of something that you will use later

Example

It's a good idea to collect rainwater for use in the garden.

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1.3

to get information

Example

evidence collected by the police

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2

to go and get a person or thing

Example

What time do you collect the kids from school?

Example

When can I come and collect the keys?

Example

The rubbish is collected every Tuesday.

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3

to get money from someone for a particular purpose

Example

Someone came to collect the rent.

Synonyms and related words
3.1

to collect money from different people, for example in order to buy a present or to help people who are suffering

Example

They give up their spare time to collect for various charities.

Synonyms and related words
Example

He's old enough to collect his pension.

Example

The victim collected £10,000 in compensation.

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4

to win or earn money or a prize

Example

She ran well, but failed to collect a medal.

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5

if a crowd of people collects, it forms

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5.1

if a substance collects somewhere, it gradually goes there

Example

With flat roofs, you often find that rain collects in the corners.

Synonyms and related words
Synonyms and related words
Definition collect in British English