MAIN (2)

main (2). Main, n. the gross, sum total, chief part, ocean

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Main, n. [[AS. mægen strength, power, force; akin to OHG. magan, Icel. megin, and to E. may, v. �. See May, v.]] 1. 1. Strength; force; might; violent effort.
There were in this battle of most might and main. R. of Gl. He 'gan advance, With huge force, and with importable main. Spenser. 2. 2. The chief or principal part; the main or most important thing.
Resolved to rest upon the title of Lancaster as the main, and to use the other two . . . but as supporters. Bacon. 3. 3. Specifically: (a) The great sea, as distinguished from an arm, bay, etc. ; the high sea; the ocean. “Struggling in the main.” Dryden. (b) The continent, as distinguished from an island; the mainland. “Invaded the main of Spain.” Bacon. (c) principal duct or pipe, as distinguished from lesser ones; esp. (Engin.), a principal pipe leading to or from a reservoir; as, a fire main.
Forcing main, the delivery pipe of a pump. — For the main, or In the main, for the most part; in the greatest part. — With might and main, or With all one's might and main, with all one's strength; with violent effort. With might and main they chased the murderous fox. Dryden.