match-n; 7 Senses

Sense Number 1: fire-starting tool

Commentary: A small piece of wood that is used to start fires. Usually refers to a device with a combustible head, but other objects can be called "matches" if they're used to start fires.

Examples:
I always carry a book of matches with me.
If you dropped a match into this gasoline tank, the whole thing will explode!

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 1 3

Sense Number 2: contest

Commentary: MATCH[+event] A formal contest in which several people or groups compete with one another. Usually sports-related.

Examples:
John won the match with an uppercut to the jaw.
The match lasted six hours but ended in a draw.
Her harsh words triggered a fierce shouting match between us.

Mappings:
PropBank: match.02
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 3: thing that connects

Commentary: Something that matches with something else, usually because of similarity or harmony between them. Can be an exact duplicate. Includes romantic pairings.

Examples:
I need something that would be a good match for this jacket.
When a match is found, an entry is made in the notebook.
John had been trying to find a match for years, but with no success.
I think she'll be a great match for you!

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 4 6 9

Sense Number 4: a connection

Commentary: The connection between two things that match. Does not refer to any specific item in the connection. Includes romantic pairings.

Examples:
Some think that the match between animals and their environment is too perfect to arise by evolution alone.
Cupid is the mythical match maker.
Our marriage was a match made in heaven.

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: -

Sense Number 5: all connected items

Commentary: A collective term for all the items that are connected to one another. Includes romantic pairings.

Examples:
John and I have been a happy match for the past ten years.

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 8

Sense Number 6: score needed to win

Commentary: A sports term, for the score needed to win a contest. Most often used in formal expressions, particularly in tennis.

Examples:
John will be going for the match point on this next volley.

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 5

Sense Number 7: worthy opponent

Commentary: Refers to someone of equal ability. A peer.

Examples:
When we're playing at our best, we're a match for anybody.
You've met your match, Mr. Kasparov.

Mappings:
PropBank: match.02
WordNet 2.0 Sense Numbers: 7