The abacus is one of the earliest arithmetic calculators. / Don’t confuse an abacus with the very similar Japanese soroban that has rows of beads split into fours and ones. >> abacus  (AB i kuhs) n. a frame with beads on wires in rows of fives and twos separated by a “reckoning bar,” of Chinese origin

Abandon all hope of seeing your family again./ We must abandon the boathouse until the storm is over. /[-ed -ing abandonment n.] [Syn. quit desert forsake (Each of these has a slightly differ- ent emotion attached to it.)] >> abandon  (uh BAN dn) vt. 1. to give up something forever; 2. to leave in a time of danger

We might abbreviate this word abbrev./ The student abbreviated most of the words in his or her class notes to keep up with the teacher’s lecture. /[-d abbreviating abbreviation n.] >> abbreviate  (uh BREE vee ayt) vt. to shorten something by leaving a part, or parts, out

Barbara’s taking the shortcut home was an aberration from her normal driv- ing pattern. / Jack was prone to mental aberrations that caused him to believe he was being persecuted. >> aberration  (ab oer AY shin) n. 1. a departure from the normal; 2. a deviation from what is right or correct

The rainstorm caused the baseball game to be held in abeyance. / The judge decided to hold sentencing in abeyance until the convicted per- son’s counsel could arrange for character witnesses. >> abeyance  (uh BAY ins) n. a temporary suspension or delay of a function or activity

You have the ability to succeed at what you attempt./ Einstein had exceptional mathematical ability./ An automobile lacks the ablility to pull a freight train. >> ability  (uh BIL etee) n. 1. being able; having power to do something; 2. skill, expertise, power

By his divorce agreement Ken abjured all rights to the family car. / On cross-examination Doris abjured her previous testimony about having seen the burglar. /[-d abjuring] [Syn. renounce] >> abjure  (ab JOOR) vt. 1. to give up rights, allegiance, and so on under oath; to renounce; 2. to recant

Sally used a pumice stone to abrade the dead skin off her right foot. / Sanding is a good way to abrade rough spots off a piece of furniture before applying the finish. / Grinding wheels are used to abrade metal objects. /[-d abrading] [Syn. scrape] >> abrade  (uh BRAYD) vt. scrape; wear out by rubbing; rub off

Condensed books abridge the original to appeal to a less than scholarly audience./ The 9-hour Lord of the Rings trilogy was abridged to 1 1/2 hours for its tele- vision broadcast. /[-d abridging] >> abridge  (uh BRIJ) vt. 1. to reduce in scope; 2. to shorten while maintaining the essence

Only a court has the right to abrogate a wedding. / You may not abrogate your obligation to support your children unless a court rules so. /[-d abrogating] [Syn. abolish] >> abrogate  (AB ruh GAYT) vt. to repeal or cancel (by authority); annul

Jesse James absconded just ahead of the sheriff./ To abscond often results in a false sense of security. /[-ed -ing absconder n.] >> abscond  (ab SKAHND) vi. to run away and hide; especially to avoid capture by law enforcers

The Lord absolved the sinner and forgave him./ The jury absolved the accused of any wrongdoing./ Dad absolved Junior of his promise to wash the car. /[-d absolving absolver n.] [Syn. pardon forgive acquit] >> absolve  (ab ZAHLV) vt. 1. to declare free from guilt; 2. to free from duty or a promise

The sponge absorbed the entire spill./ Learning fractions absorbed Hailee’s full attention./ If we fail to absorb the lessons of history we are doomed to repeat them./ I’ll absorb the charge for the window replacement. /[-ed -ing absorbant adj.] >> absorb  (ab ZAWRB) vt. 1. to suck up; 2. to take up the full energy or attention of; engross; 3. to take in and incorporate; 4. to assume the full cost

I shall abstain from smoking or drinking./ Three voted for the bill two against it and one abstained. /[-ed -ing abstention n.] >> abstain  (ab STAYN) vi. to hold back (from); refrain from

The story that his arms were tired because he had just flown in from Los Angeles was absurd./ The outfit that Gino wore with the red and white striped shirt and the green and yellow checked pants was absurd. /[absurdly adv. absurdity n.] >> absurd  (ab SOERD or ab ZOEHRD) adj. 1. so obviously untrue as to be laugh- able; 2. laughably different from what is reasonable

When you tell people about your vacation accentuate the high points and play down the low points./ Wear clothing that accentuates your youthful looks. /[-d accentuating accentuation n.] >> accentuate  (ak SEN choo ayt) vt. 1. to pronounce or mark with a stress or accent; 2. emphasize

Eating peas at a restaurant using only your knife is not considered accept- able manners./ Dressing in a toga is considered acceptable at certain fraternity parties. >> acceptable  (ak SEPT ibl) adj. adequate; tolerable; bearable; okay

Jack’s acceptance by Jill’s family made him very happy./ Ian’s acceptance of full responsibility for the telephone charges got Kira off the hook (so to speak). >> acceptance  (ak SEP tins) n. 1. being accepted; 2. an approval

The access to the house was through the side door./ Sebastian gained access to his car through the driver’s window. /[-ed -ing] >> access  (AK ses) n. 1. the act of coming near to; approach; 2. a way of approach- ing something; 3. the right to enter or use something —vt. to gain or have use of a database

An adapter is needed for your sink to accommodate the dishwasher hose./ Even though I don’t want to do it I’ll accommodate you./ The hotel accommodates its guests with room service./ The kitchen accommodates seating space for four. /[-d accommodating] >> accommodate  (uh KOM uh dayt) vt. 1. to make fit; to adapt; adjust; 2. to rec- oncile; 3. to do a service or favor for; 4. to have room for

Myles made an accommodation to staying up all night and annoying his parents by sleeping most of the day./ The employee and his former boss reached an accommodation over the mat- ter of severance pay./ Having coffeemakers in each room was an accommodation for motel guests./ The train’s compartment had sleeping accommodations for up to four passengers. >> accommodation  (uh kom uh DAY shun) n. 1. adjustment; adaptation to a cer- tain use; 2. reconciliation of differences; 3. a convenience; 4. living or traveling space

While Bob was robbing the bank his accomplice Louise was behind the wheel of the getaway car. /[Syn. associate] >> accomplice  (uh KOM plis) n. a person who knowingly assists in committing a crime; partner in crime

Rocio accomplished her task of bathing the dog./ The human fly never failed to accomplish its mission. /[-ed -ing accomplishment n.] [Syn. perform reach] >> accomplish  (uh KOM plish) vt. 1. to do or succeed in doing; 2. to perfect; to complete

Our objectives are in accord./ I intend to accord you every courtesy./ Jakob had his dad’s accord to use the family car. /[-ed -ing (in) accordance n.] >> accord  (uk AWRD) vt. 1. to make agree; to reconcile; 2. to grant or concede —vi. mutual agreement —n. 1. an informal agreement, as between two states or coun- tries; 2. consent; permission

I wouldn’t be so bold as to accost someone who did not greet me first./ I was walking along minding my own business when I was accosted by a street peddler. /[-ed -ing] >> accost  (uh KAWST) vt. to approach and greet first (often in an intrusive way)

The detective asked Jim to account for his time on Sunday./ The cashier had to account for her daily receipts./ The criminal must account for his or her evil action./ Karen accounts for her funds in her checkbook register./ There’s no accounting for people’s tastes./ Jason keeps track of what is due to him in his accounts receivable ledger. /[-ed -ing accountable n.] >> account  (uh KOWNT) vt. to tell, consider, or judge —vi. 1. to furnish a reckon- ing of money collected and/or payed out; 2. to make acceptable amends for; 3. to give acceptible reasons for —n. 1. a counting or calculation; 2. a record of monetary funds; 3. a bank account; 4. a record of transactions

The accretion of sand brought in by the ocean has caused certain beaches to grow in size. / Regular brushing is needed to remove the accretion of plaque on one’s teeth. /[(to) accrete vi. vt.] >> accretion  (uh KREE shin) n. 1. growth in size, especially by addition or accu- mulation of material; 2. accumulated matter

Over years of saving regularly wealth accumulates. / Dirty laundry accumulates on the floor of any boy’s room. / In the autumn leaves accumulate on the lawn in the temperate climate regions. /[-d accumulating] [Syn. heap] >> accumulate  (uh KYOOM yoo LAYT) vt. to pile up; gather; form a heap

Weather forecasts are not renowned for their accuracy./ Robin Hood could shoot an arrow with great accuracy. >> accuracy  (AK yur isee) n. the quality of being correct or exact; exactness, preciseness

Ian made an accurate drawing of his pet pug Willis./ Sarah had to be accurate in math to get a grade of 100%./ Making candy requires a very accurate thermometer. /[accurately adv.] [Syn. precise] >> accurate  (AK yur it) adj. 1. careful and precise; 2. free from errors; 3. sticking closely to a standard (like a scale)

Franklin Roosevelt achieved election to the U.S. presidency four separate times./ It is difficult to achieve the lead in the Tour de France bicycle race./ When Hillary tried to climb Everest the goal was his to achieve. /[-d achieving achievement n.] [Syn. reach perform] >> achieve  (uh CHEEV) vt. 1. to succeed in doing; 2. to get somewhere; to attain; to gain —vi. to succeed

Roxane acknowledged the charges against her./ The insuror acknowledged the claims of the victim./ The chair acknowledges the senator from Neverland./ I’d like to acknowledge both my parents for the gift of life. /[-d acknowledging acknowledgment n.] >> acknowledge  (ak NAH lidzh) vt. 1. to admit to be true; confess; 2. to recognize the claims or authority of; 3. to answer a greeter, respond to an introduction, etc.; 4. to express thanks for; 5. to affirm the reception of something

You would do well to acquire a good education./ We all acquire some of our parents’ traits by heredity./ The United States acquired the Louisiana Territory by purchasing it from France./ An appreciation for caviar is an acquired taste unlike a love for creamed corn which is of course innate. /[-d acquiring] >> acquire  (ak WYR) vt. 1. to gain or get something; 2. to take possession of; obtain

A developer’s acquisition of the old Bethlehem Corp.’s property is seen as a good thing for Easton./ Tania’s acquisition of a new PDA made her very happy./ Ali’s acquisition of a new chauffeur pleased her to no end. /[acquisitive adj. acquisitively adv. acquisitiveness n.] >> acquisition  (AK wuh zi shuhn) n. something or someone obtained

The acrimony of the temper of a scorned woman is legendary both in litera- ture and in life./ Dylan greeted the news that his new DVD player did not work at all with considerable acrimony in his oaths. /[acrimonious adj. acrimoniously adv.] [Syn. asperity] >> acrimony  (AK ruh moh nee) n. bitterness, sharpness, or harshness of speech, manner, or temper

An acute angle forms a sharp point./ Geoffrey’s acute mind made short work of the crossword./ The eagle’s acute eyesight can pick up a mouse on the ground from hun- dreds of meters in the air./ Certain pains like John are acute but of short duration./ There is an acute shortage of labor in some job categories. /[-ly adv. acuity n.] [Syn. sharp keen critical] >> acute  (uh KYOOT) adj. 1. sharply pointed; 2. shrewd; quick of mind; 3. sensitive to something (like acute hearing); 4. severe and sharp (like acute pain); 5. serious; severe

Jim thought it perfectly sensible to adapt his gas stove’s IN line to connect to the hot water line from his sink./ When Mary travels between Miami and Juneau she adapts her wardrobe— especially outerwear—accordingly. /[-ed -ing -able adj. -ation -er adaptability n.] >> adapt  (uh DAPT) vt. 1. to make suitable or to make fit by changing; 2. to change oneself to fit new or changed conditions

George Jetson will be a very adept widget maker./ When it comes to guarding those Academy Award winners the accounting firm of Price Waterhouse has shown itself to be adept. /[adeptly adv. adeptness n.] [Syn. expert] >> adept  (uh DEPT) adj. very skilled, expert —n. a person who is very skilled in some field of endeavor or knowledge

Peanut butter will adhere to one’s teeth almost every time./ The candidate adhered to her promise to support the health plan even after she was elected./ The secretary adhered to his boss’s story even after the latter had changed it. /[-d adhering adherer adherence n.] [Syn. stick] >> adhere  (ad HEER) vi. 1. to stick to something; stick to a plan; 2. to stay firm in support of a leader or a plan

Judge Judy adjudicates cases on television five days a week./ Melissa agreed to adjudicate a dispute between two of her neighbors on how high to construct a fence between their backyards. /[-d adjudicating] >> adjudicate  (uh JOO dik ayt) vt. to hear and decide a court case —vi. to serve as a judge to decide some dispute or problem

A police officer usually carries a second gun as an adjunct to his service weapon. / A pointer can be a useful adjunct at most slide shows. / An adjunct teacher is often found in a primary school classroom in addi- tion to the classroom teacher. >> adjunct  (AD junkt) n. 1. an addition; something secondary in importance; 2. a person who is a helper of another —adj. an assistant, such as an adjunct teacher, counselor, and so on

Melissa’s success in totally renovating the house with limited available resources is admirable./ The varsity hockey team did an admirable job defending against their opponent’s star shooter./ The orchestra performed admirably at last night’s concert. /[admirably adv.] >> admirable  (AD muh ruh bl) adj. inspiring or deserving admiration or praise; excellent; splendid

Any basketball fan has to admire the effortlessness with which Jason Kidd dishes the rock to his teammates./ Students of the Korean police action of the 1950s admire General MacArthur’s daring in landing his troops and equipment behind the enemy lines at Inchon. /[-d admiring admiration n.] >> admire  (ad MYR) vt. 1. to look upon with approval, wonder, and delight; 2. to have a high regard for

Many ornaments are hung on a Christmas tree to adorn it./ Jewelry often adorns a woman’s arms and neck./ In summer a house’s lawn is often adorned by colorful flowers. /[-ed -ing adornment n.] [Syn. beautify decorate bedeck] >> adorn  (uh DAWRN) vt. 1. to be ornamental to; add beauty or distinction to; 2. put decorations on; ornament

Adrenaline causes the body’s functions to temporarily speed up. / The body is stimulated to produce adrenaline in response to perceived emergency situations. >> adrenaline  (uh DREN uh lin) n. first appeared as a trademarked name coined by chemist J. Takamine, who isolated it in 1901; now the nontechnical name for epinephrine, a hormone produced by the inner cortex of the adrenal glands

Andy had become quite an adroit chess player by the time he was 17. / Gino was extremely adroit with a wheelbarrow full of wet concrete. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. dextrous] >> adroit  (uh DROYT) adj. skillful either mentally or physically; clever; expert at

In the king’s presence his subjects often adulate him./ Ali always adulates her husband Joe when she’s looking to get him to do something for her. /[-d adulating adulation adulator n. adulatory adj.] >> adulate  (AD joo let) vt. 1. to praise too highly or flatter in a servile manner; 2. to admire to an excessive degree

Cream is adulterated with milk to make half-and-half. / Teachers often adulterate their criticism of pupils’ work so as not to over- whelm them. / Legislation can be so adulterated by amendments that it does not do what it was originally intended to accomplish. /[-d adulterating] [Syn. dilute] >> adulterate  (uh DUHL toer AYT) vt. to make impure; water down; to make inferior

The outbreak of war in Europe was quite advantageous for American industry./ Because they get to bat last the home team in a baseball game is in an advantageous position. >> advantageous  (AD van TAY juhss) adj. resulting in having an advantage; prof- itable; favorable

A prosecutor and a defense attorney have an adversarial relationship—at least while they are in court./ During the U.S. Civil War the Union and the Confederacy were adversarial. >> adversarial  (AD voer SER ee uhl) adj. of or characterized by disagreement, opposition, hostility, etc. (as would be the case between adversaries)

Muhammad Ali was Joe Frasier’s adversary in the boxing ring on three sepa- rate occasions./ The New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox are legendary adversaries in baseball’s American League./ In World War II the U.S.’s Pacific adversary was Japan. /[Syn. enemy opponent] >> adversary  (AD vuhr SER ee) n. a person who fights against another; one who is in opposition to something

Those who lived through the Great Depression of the early 1930s learned how to triumph over adversity./ The only solution to the adversity of those living in the Dust Bowl of Oklahoma in the 1930s was to move away./ The Japanese automobile and electronics industries helped the country to recover from the adversity of defeat. >> adversity  (ad VER si tee) n. a state of poverty and trouble; a condition of mis- fortune or wretchedness; an instance of calamity

Fred wrote to advocate tax reform for the state. / Marsha advocates freedom for all to enjoy ice cream without increasing in size or weight. / Alice is Jose’s advocate in his suit against the city for overassessing the value of his property. / Noreen is an advocate for the rights of homeless people. /[-d advocating] [Syn. support] >> advocate  (AD vuh KAYT for vt., AD vuh kit for n.) vt. to speak or write in favor of something —n. a person who pleads the case of another (for example, a lawyer) or who supports a specific action

To improve the taste of drinking water huge plants aerate it before it is sent to your home./ Your lungs aerate the blood that is brought there from your heart as part of your pulmonary circulation./ Soft drink makers aerate their drinks by forcing carbon dioxide to dissolve under pressure. /[-d aerating aeration n.] >> aerate  (AER ayt) vt. 1. to open to air or to cause air to circulate through; 2. to get oxygen to the blood (as in respiration); 3. to charge a liquid with gas (such as making soda pop)

Van Gogh’s Starry Night has an aesthetic quality that defies being expressed in words./ Aaron was touched by the aesthetic arrangement of the flowers blooming in the garden. /[aesthetically adv. aesthetical aesthete n.] >> aesthetic  (es the tik) adj. 1. of beauty; 2. sensitive to art and beauty; demon- strating good taste; being artistic

Both crosswind and current affect our ability to row straight across to the other side of the river./ Seeing the photos of the liberated concentration camp inmates affects many people./ As the voice of Shrek Mike Meyers affects the role of a lovable green ogre. /[-ed -ing affectable adj.] [Syn. assume (sense 3)] >> affect  (uh FEKT) vt. 1. to influence; to produce a change; 2. to move or cause an emotional response; 3. to pretend to be, have, feel, or like —n. an emotional response; an emotion or feeling attached to an idea

Helen always felt a great affinity for Al. / Tuna and mayonnaise have a close affinity to one another. / Though they are all Romance languages Italian has a greater affinity to Spanish than to French. >> affinity  (uh FIN i tee) n. 1. close relationship; connection; 2. similarity of struc- ture; 3. affection; liking for

Jerry came to Ann to affirm the validity of Laura’s tale. / The Senate affirmed the nomination of the secretary of state. /[-ed -ing -ation n.] [Syn. assert] >> affirm  (uh FOERM) vt. 1. to declare to be true; assert the truth of; 2. to confirm; uphold; ratify

Don’t affront Bill’s mother by telling her the chicken she prepared tasted like the take-out chicken’s bucket./ When you tell your parents you’ll do anything you want regardless of what they think you affront them./ Debbie’s not inviting Sally to her birthday party was a deliberate affront. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. offend] >> affront  (uhf RUHNT) vt. 1. to openly or purposefully insult; offend; slight; 2. to confront in a defiant manner —n. an open or deliberate insult

Jason wanted to settle down and have children but his brother Dylan had a totally different agenda./ “Old Business” was the second thing on the agenda for the meeting just after the reading of the minutes from the last meeting. >> agenda  (uh JEN duh) n. a list of things to be done; especially, a program of things to be done at a meeting

By certifying the landfill as a suitable building site the county helped to further aggrandize its owner. / Although not earning a dollar from the transaction its very happening aggrandized Otto’s reputation. /[-d aggrandizing] [Syn. enrich] >> aggrandize  (uh GRAN dyz) vt. 1. to make greater, richer, more powerful; 2. to make seem richer

The ballerina showed how agile she was as she effortlessly danced and frol- icked about the stage./ The comedian was agile of mind as he moved from one quip seamlessly to the next. /[agilely adv. agility n.] >> agile  (A juhl) adj. 1. able to move quickly and easily; deft and active of body or mind; 2. keen and lively (of mind)

The agrarian laws of the late twentieth century had the government paying farmers to not grow certain crops./ Agrarian schools teach farmers about crop rotation and how alternating certain crops replenishes soil nutrients. >> agrarian  (uhg RAR ee uhn) adj. 1. relating to land in general; 2. relating to farms, farmers, and agriculture

Tania and Ali came to an agreement on who’d bring what to the Cinco de Mayo party./ Canada and the U.S. have an agreement concerning the openness of their shared border./ Calling a strike would violate the union’s agreement with the automaker. >> agreement  (uh GREE mnt) n. 1. being in harmony or accord; 2. an understand- ing between two parties; 3. a contract

For a farmer to get the most from his land he needs to have some under- standing of agronomy. / Agronomy teaches that rotating crops allows the land to replenish its essen- tial nutrients after they’ve been used. >> agronomy  (uh GRAHN uh mee) n. management of farmland; the science of producing crops

Marley walked with a limp as a result of a bout with rickets an ailment that had affected him as a puppy./ Delusions of grandeur describes an ailment that afflicts many teenaged boys. >> ailment  (AYL mnt) n. disease; illness; any mental or physical disorder, especial- ly a mild but persistent one

Consuela ate her dinner with alacrity eager to leave to go to the movie theater./ Willis wagged his tail rapidly indicating his alacrity to go for a walk when he heard Jim getting his leash. >> alacrity  (uh LAK ri tee) n. eager readiness or willingness, usually demonstrated by quick and lively action

Four-year-old Francesco was positive that his grandfather could practice alchemy to change his pennies into quarters./ Anyone who believes that a cottage sitting on a quarter acre of land can be turned into a mansion believes in the teachings of alchemy. /[alchemical adj. alchemically adv. alchemist n.] >> alchemy  (AL ku mee) n. 1. an early combination of magic, chemistry, and philosophy from the Middle Ages, the main purposes of which were to turn base metals into gold and to find the elixir for eternal youth; 2. a process or power for turning one thing into a better thing as if by miraculous means

That to sell a piece of property to another is to alienate it is a rarely used meaning of the word in the U.S./ When you ask a friend’s former girlfriend for a date you’re likely to alien- ate that friend. Ask a friend’s current boyfriend for a date and you’re cer- tain to alienate her./ Snatching a dog’s food from his mouth is likely to alienate the dog—espe- cially if it’s not your own pet./ Sally told Suzie stories about Cheryl’s past dealings with her friends that were sure to alienate Suzie from Cheryl and she hoped gain Suzie’s friend- ship for herself. /[-d alienation n.] >> alienate  (AY lee en ayt) vt. 1. to transfer land ownership to another; 2. to estrange; make unfriendly; 3. to cause to be detached or withdrawn; 4. to cause a change of affection

Aesop’s fables are probably the best-known allegories in all literature. / An allegory always has a message apart from its obvious one which in Aesop’s case is provided in the moral at the end. /[allegories pl.] >> allegory  (AL ig AWR ee) n. a story in which people, things, and ideas have hid- den meanings, often used as a way of teaching values

Lloyd took one of the boxes of books from Arlene to alleviate the load that she was carrying. / Tears often alleviate the burden of emotional stress. /[-d alleviating] [Syn. reduce] >> alleviate  (uh LEEV ee AYT) vt. 1. to lighten; make less hard to bear; 2. to reduce or lessen pain

The city allocated $200 million to improve mass-transit facilities. / Having collected hundreds of donated winter coats it was now up to the lodge to allocate them among the less fortunate. /[-d allocating] [Syn. allot] >> allocate  (AL uh KAYT) vt. 1. to earmark or set aside for a specific purpose; 2. to distribute; mete out

Wrapping a strip of copper arround tin does not make an alloy/ the tin and copper must be smelted at high heat to form the new metal bronze. / Iron is alloyed with carbon and several other metals to produce steel. / Fourteen-karat gold is produced by alloying 24-karat pure gold with other metals. /[-ed -ing] >> alloy  (uh LOY for vt., A loy for n.) vt. 1. to fuse two or more metals to form one that possesses new properties; 2. to reduce the pureness of a rare metal by fusing it with a less precious one —n. a metallic substance derived from the chemical fusion of two or more metals

A marriage was often used to ally two royal European families during the Middle Ages and beyond./ The U.K. was our ally in both wars with Iraq./ The lilly and the onion are two closely allied bulbs. /[allied allying allies pl. alliance n.] [Syn. associate] >> ally  (uh LY for vt., A ly for n.) vt. 1. to unite or join with for a certain purpose; 2. to relate by similarity of purpose, structure, or other character —n. 1. a country, group, or individual joined with others for a common end; 2. plants or animals closely related by some characteristic

Mike and Alice altered their plans for the evening./ The tailor had to alter the gown to make it fit Jan better./ Alter your pet to keep down an overpopulation of strays./ The Fab Five altered Al’s style of dress and his lifestyle. /[-ed -ing alteration n.] [Syn. change vary] >> alter  (AWL ter) vt. 1. to cause to change in detail but not in substance; modify; 2. to take parts of a garment and resew them for a better fit; 3. to neuter (an animal) —vi. to change; become different

Mike sat down to dinner although he had eaten less than a half hour before./ Although Mary claimed to not care for opera she had to admit that the music from Il Trovatore was exceptional. >> although  (awl THOH) conj. despite the fact that; granting that; though

It had to be altruism as well as bravery that caused Maria to run into the burning house to rescue the crying child./ It is uncommon to see a case of pure altruism where there is no thought of personal gain. /[altruist n.] [Syn. selflessness] >> altruism  (AL troo i zm) n. unselfish concern for others’ well-being

Many smaller companies were amalgamated to form some of today’s corpo- rate giants such as General Electric and U.S. Steel. / Mercury and silver are amalgamated to form the amalgam that is losing popularity with dentists as a filling material. /[-d amalgamating] >> amalgamate  (uh MAL guh MAYT) vt. 1. to join together into one; to unite; to combine; 2. to alloy into an amalgam (an alloy of mercury and another metal, used by dentists in fillings)

The third base coach’s ambiguous signals left the batter not knowing whether to swing away or bunt./ Roxane was ambiguous in her instructions for feeding the cat while she was away. /[-ly adv. -ness ambiguity n. ambiguities pl.] [Syn. obscure] >> ambiguous  (am BIG yoo uhs) adj. 1. having more than one possible meaning; 2. unclear; vague; indefinite

Karen had a real ambivalence about being invited to Uncle Bob’s cabin/ she loved visiting but hated the four-hour trip./ David showed ambivalence about serving artichokes because while they are delicious they’re a pain to prepare. >> ambivalence  (am BIV uh lens) n. having conflicting feelings about a person or thing at the same time, such as love and hate

A visit by a professional cleaning service should ameliorate the mess in our living room. / The automobile company recalled all 2004 model cars to ameliorate the problem with the steering pump. /[-d ameliorating] [Syn. improve] >> ameliorate  (uh MEEL ee uh RAYT) vt. to make or become better; to improve

Would you be amenable to someone’s making you an offer for your car? / Pneumonia is amenable to treatment with antibiotics. /[amenably adv.] [Syn. obedient] >> amenable  (uh MEN i bl or uh MEEN i bl) adj. 1. responsive; answerable to; 2. controllable; submissive

The tropical scenery is only one amenity of Hawaii./ Hawaii’s climate is an additional amenity of the place./ The restaurant’s servers and hostesses demonstrated all the amenities one would expect at those prices. /[amenities pl.] >> amenity  (uh MEN i tee) n. 1. pleasing quality; attractiveness; 2. a pleasant or desirable feature; something that adds to one’s comfort —pl. the courteous manners and pleasant acts of polite social behavior

Alice and her husband Ted had an amicable discussion about putting in a flower garden in the spring./ Bob and Carol separated on amicable terms. /[amicably adv. amicability n.] >> amicable  (AM i kuh bl) adj. feeling friendly; demonstrating goodwill; peaceable

You are among friends./ He passed among the crowd./ Ralph is included among the supporters of the president./ Machiavelli’s work is popular among business executives. >> among  (uh MUHNG)prep. 1. In the midst of; surrounded by; included in a group of; 2. from place to place in; 3. in the number or group of; 4. by or with a lot of

Sulfur is a yellow nonmetallic element that is found in crystal and amor- phous forms./ To one unfamiliar with the game of rugby the game appears to be gov- erned by amorphous rules./ When Gino tried to pin Hailee down to a specific time all he could get from her was an amorphous response. /[amorphously adv.] >> amorphous  (uh MAWR fuhs) adj. 1. lacking definite form; shapeless; 2. of no specific type; anomolous; 3. indefinite; vague

A mortgage is usually amortized over a period of 5 to 30 years with 30 being the most common term. / An automobile purchased for business use must be amortized over 5 to 7 years rather than taken as a single deduction all at once. /[-d -zing] >> amortize  (uh MAWR tyz) vt. 1. to put money aside at intervals to pay off a debt either prior to or at maturity; 2. to prorate an expense over an interval (for tax purposes)

It is not unusual to find amphibians in and around a pond./ The early Pan American Airways Clippers were amphibians that loaded and unloaded their passengers on land but took off from and landed on water. /[amphibious adj.] >> amphibian  (am FIB ee en) n. 1. any one of a class of cold-blooded vertebrates without scales (including frogs, newts, salamanders, and toads) that starts life with gills, living in the water, and later develops lungs; 2. any plant or animal that is at home both on land and in water; 3. any aircraft or vehicle that can operate on land and in water

Caesar Augustus amplified the reach of the Roman Empire./ The robbery victim amplified his story by providing the license plate num- ber of the felon’s car and a thorough description of his height build and clothing./ The sound of the lead singer’s voice is almost inaudible but the sound engineer will amplify it to make it stand out. /[amplified amplifying amplification amplifier n.] >> amplify  (AMP li fy) vt. 1. to make bigger and stronger; increase or extend (power, authority, etc.); 2. to strengthen by adding details, examples, etc.; 3. (electronics) to strengthen an audio signal or electrical current

Randy’s amusement was Claire’s main occupation./ Marcia played solitaire for her own amusement./ The antics of the dancing bears was a source of great amusement for the audience. >> amusement  (uh MYOOZ mnt) n. 1. the condition of being entertained; 2. a thing or activity that amuses or entertains; entertainment

The comedian’s stand-up routine was very amusing./ An amusing incident takes one’s mind off his or her woes./ Jose’s amusing facial contortions made everyone laugh. /[Syn. funny] >> amusing  (uh MYOOZ eeng) adj. 1. entertaining; diverting; 2. causing laughter or merriment

The depiction in some movies of people interacting with dinosaurs is an often-portrayed anachronism./ Anachronism is a frequently used tool of literature because it allows all sorts of interactions that would be otherwise impossible./ Having a conversation with the founding fathers or interviewing Abe Lincoln or Marie Curie are but three literary uses for anachronism. /[anachronistic adj. anachronistically adv.] >> anachronism  (un AK ron i zm) n. 1. the putting forth of something as having happened outside its appropriate time, especially earlier; 2. anything that seems to be out of its proper time frame in history

There is an analogy between polar bears and humans in that both are mammals and both live on earth./ Mork’s analogy convinced Mindy that her problem closely resembled the one Curtis had last month/ the circumstances were the same although the names and locations differed. /[analogous adj. analogously adv.] [Syn. likeness] >> analogy  (uh NAL uh gee) n. 1. a likeness in some ways between things that are otherwise not alike; 2. the likening of one thing to another based on some shared similarity

The statement is undergoing detailed analysis to determine its true meaning./ The specimen was sent to the laboratory for analysis./ The historian’s analysis of the spaghetti company’s battle for supremacy is available in his latest book Pasta for You. >> analysis  (uh NA lis is) n. 1. breaking up or separating a whole into its parts so that they can be inspected to determine their nature, proportions, functions, etc.; any detailed inspection; 2. a statement of the results of this process

Greg’s analytical mind breaks each problem into tiny parts and carefully examines each and every one./ The more one practices analytical procedures the more skilled at them he or she is likely to become. /[analytic analytically adv.] [Antonym: synthetic] >> analytical  (an uh LIT ik uhl) adj. 1. something that separates into constituent parts; 2. skilled at using analysis

Heat is often very handy as a tool to help analyze the composition of sub- stances because once vaporized the substances’ unique light spectra can be recorded./ A microscope is a useful tool to analyze things that are invisible to the naked eye./ Some people need analyzing by a shrink. /[-d analyzing analyzer n.] >> analyze  (AN i LYZ) vt. 1. to separate into constituent parts so as to determine their nature, proportion, interrelationship, etc.; 2. to examine in detail to find out the nature, tendencies, etc. of something; 3. to psychoanalyze

With no government in power anarchy reigned supreme./ In the current state of anarchy looting and violence were the everyday state of affairs./ With no proven theory as to the mechanism of the Copelia virus anarchy prevailed in the field of viral research. /[anarchic anarchical adj. anarchist n. anarchically adv.] >> anarchy  (AN er kee) n. 1. a complete lack of government; 2. characterized by political disorder and violence; lawlessness; 3. disorder in any area of activity or endeavor

My neighbor Bryan claims that Davey Crockett was his ancestor./ The sabertooth tiger is thought to be an ancestor of today’s big cats as well as domesticated cats./ The British Morris Mini is considered the ancestor of all modern compact cars with sideways-mounted engines. /[ancestral adj.] >> ancestor  (AN ses toer) n. 1. someone from whom one is descended, especially one earlier than a grandparent; forefather; forebear; 2. an earlier kind of animal from which later types have evolved; 3. anything regarded as a forerunner of a thing that developed later

In ancient days Athens and Sparta were great city-states./ Baltimore’s Fort McHenry is an ancient structure./ Barbara thinks her mom’s notions of proper behavior are totally ancient dude./ Julius Caesar was an ancient/ so is my grandfather. /[Syn. old] >> ancient  (AYN shent) adj. 1. belonging to the distant past, especially prior to the end of the Western Roman Empire (476 A.D.); 2. having been in existence a long time; very, very old; 3. antiquated; old-fashioned —n. 1. a person who lived in ancient times; 2. a very old person

On the Minnow Gilligan was ancillary to the Skipper./ While the main body of a news article imparts primary information side- bars usually contain ancillary or related facts. anecdote (AN ik doht) n. 1. a short entertaining account of something that happened usually personal or biographical/ 2. (obsolete) a little-known amusing fact / Jonah related the anecdote about himself and the whale./ Many are unaware of the fact that some social studies books once con- tained the anecdote that Abraham Lincoln was born in a log cabin that he’d built with his own hands. /[anecdotal adj. anecdotally adv.] [Syn. story] >> ancillary  (AN sil er ee) adj. 1. underling or subordinate, often used with to; 2. that serves as an aid; auxiliary

Skillful puppeteers are able to convincingly animate lifeless wooden marionettes./ You can rely on Harold to join in a dull discussion and by so doing to immediately animate it./ The group of soldiers sat around acting glum until Sergeant Jones animated them to take action. /[-d animating animation n.] >> animate  (AN i mayt) vt. 1. to bring to life; to give life to; 2. to cause to be ener- getic or spirited; 3. to move to action; inspire

There is a great deal of animosity between Boston Red Sox fans and New York Yankee fans. / Veterans from Germany and America have met each other in the cemeter- ies of France to show that they have no animosity for each other left over from World War II. /[Syn. enmity] >> animosity  (an i MAH sit ee) n. hostility; a feeling of strong ill will; dislike

Only one amendment to the U.S. Constitution stands out as unique in that it annuls another. / Most contracts contain a paragraph listing the conditions under which it may be annulled. /[annulled annulling] [Syn. abolish] >> annul  (uh NUHL) vt. to nullify; void; cancel; put an end to; invalidate under the law

It was the anomalous behavior of the planets Neptune and Uranus that led to astronomers discovering Pluto in 1930. / Observations of anomalous behavior of certain objects in the sky have led to reportings of UFO sightings. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. irregular] >> anomalous  (uh NAM uh lis) adj. 1. deviating from the regular rule; strange; abnormal; 2. being or seeming irregular; contradictory

The Boston Red Sox baseball team is the chief antagonist of the New York Yankees baseball team./ For every muscle in your body that causes a body part to move in a certain direction an antagonist muscle exists to return the part to its original position. /[-ic adj. -ically adv. antagonism n.] [Syn. opponent] >> antagonist  (an TAG uh nisst) n. 1. a person who competes against or opposes another; adversary; opponent; 2. a muscle, drug, etc. that acts to opppose another

Every poetry collection is an anthology if more than a single poet’s works are included./ Almost every CD of popular music is an anthology of songs. /[-logies pl. -logize vt. -logizer -logist n. -logistic adj.] >> anthology  (an THOL i jee) n. a collection of short stories, songs, poems, excerpts, etc. compiled into a single book

Before the Salk vaccine stimulated the production of antibodies against it polio was the most dreaded disease in the United States. / Each antibody produced by white blood cells is specific to a particular disease. /[antibodies pl.] >> antibody  (AN ti BAH dee) n. a special protein produced by certain white blood cells to form immunity to certain antigens

It is rumored that dogs have a great antipathy for cats yet Lois’s two dogs and three cats get along famously. / Jan’s new hairdo was the object of Kaj’s antipathy. /[Syn. aversion] >> antipathy  (an TIP ith ee) n. 1. a strong or deeply felt dislike; 2. the object of that dislike

A very small part of this book was typed on an antiquated IBM Selectric typewriter—a very small part./ I usually drive an antiquated Toyota from the mid-1980s. /[antiquate vt.] [Syn. old] >> antiquated  (an tik WAY tid) adj. 1. no longer useful or used; obsolete; out of date; old fashioned; 2. very aged

When you get a cut it’s a good idea to use an antiseptic cream to prevent its becoming infected./ An operating room should be in antiseptic condition./ You need not keep your room antiseptic/ just neat will do./ The hermit led an antiseptic life locked away in his penthouse apartment with no contact with the outside. /[-ally adv.] >> antiseptic  (AN ti SEP tik) adj. 1. disallowing infection, decay, etc. by slowing the growth of microbes; 2. free from infectious agents or infection; 3. very clean; sterile; 4. untouched by life’s problems, emotions, etc. —n. a cleaning agent meant to prevent the growth of bacteria and viruses

Karen always felt anxiety about her investments in the stock market and was nervous about losing money./ Lou’s biggest anxiety concerned earthquakes which was especially unusual because he lived in New York City./ Anxiety hung heavily in the air of the SAT exam room. /[anxieties pl.] [Syn. care] >> anxiety  (ang ZY i tee) n. 1. a state of uneasiness, apprehension, or worriedness about what the future might hold; 2. feeling powerless and unprepared to deal with threatening (usually imaginary) events; 3. an eager but often uneasy concern (to do well)

That most Americans were apathetic to the election was evidenced by the very low turnout./ Football fans are rarely apathetic to the fortunes of their home teams/ they yell and cheer for them even on TV. /[-ally adv. apathy n.] [Syn. impassive] >> apathetic  (AP uh THET ik) adj. 1. feeling emotionless; unmoved; 2. disinterested; listless

The children’s lack of attention while crossing the busy street was absolute- ly appalling./ An appallingly large number of the general public have no notion of what March Madness means. /[-ly adv. appall vt. (appalled)] [Syn. dismaying] >> appalling  (uh PAWL ing) adj. creating horror, shock, or dismay

Your coat’s location is apparent/ I can see it on the rack./ It was clearly apparent that when the judge decided the case she did not have all the information./ Ian has an apparent knowledge of the stock but I don’t think you should buy it until the research has been completed. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. evident] >> apparent  (uh PAR int) adj. 1. easily seen; visible; 2. readily understood or per- ceived; obvious; evident; 3. seeming (but not necessarily) true

She made an appearance at the Oscar presentations./ Gina’s appearance was one of calm and stateliness./ The groundhog’s appearance was ever so brief and it soon disappeared back into its burrow./ Though only of middling means Genghis and Sylvia Kahn liked to keep up an appearance of being well off./ From all appearances he’s innocent. >> appearance  (uh PEER enss) n. 1. a coming forth or becoming visible; 2. the outward look or aspect of a person or thing; 3. any thing or person seen; 4. an out- ward pretense; 5. how things seem to be (but are not necessarily)

We all appreciate how well mannered Shewana is./ Many of her students appreciate the educational experience Mrs. Sheridan provides in her applied physics class./ The connoisseur appreciated the fineness of the woodwork./ The college entrance committee fully appreciates all the applicants’ concern for its ethnic and racial blindness./ The price of fine art continues to appreciate even as you are reading this sentence. /[-d appreciating appreciation n.] [Syn. treasure cherish pride] >> appreciate  (uh PREE shee AYT) vt. 1. to think well of; to understand or enjoy; esteem; 2. to recognize and be thankful for; 3. to estimate the quality or value of (especially favorably); 4. to be sensitively aware of; 5. to increase the price or value of

The bank robber’s apprehension was the number one priority of the Boston police. / Carl had no apprehension of the effort that had been put into writing the computer program. / Harvey looked forward to his day in court with considerable apprehension. / Apprehension is a very strange word in my apprehension. >> apprehension  (AP ri HEN shin) n. 1. arrest or capture; 2. mental grasp (of); 3. anxiety; dread; 4. judgment; opinion

You may approach the rim of the Grand Canyon but don’t approach it too closely—for obvious reasons./ Digital audiotape approaches the quality of CD sound./ Do you have the nerve to approach your boss for a raise?/ It’s time to approach the matter of clearing the flood waters’ debris out of the basement. /[-es pl. -ed -ing -able adj. -ability n. (also approach n.)] >> approach  (uh PROHch) vt. 1. to come close or closer to; 2. to be similar to; to approximate; 3. a proposal or request to; to make advances; 4. to start dealing with

The Duchess has been known to appropriate the entire seating area of a town’s only restaurant when she desires to have tea./ Jane’s mother overruled Jane’s attempt to appropriate her neighbor’s lawn chair./ Farmer Jack had to appropriate the horse to draw the sleigh—at least until the snowmobile was fixed./ A bathing suit is appropriate for the swimming pool but not at all appropri- ate for the igloo. /[-d appropriating -ness appropriation n.] [Syn. fit] >> appropriate  (uh PROH pree AYT for v., uh PROH pree it for adj.) vt. 1. to take for one’s exclusive use; 2. to take without permission or improperly; 3. to set aside for a certain use or particular person —adj. right for the purpose; suitable; fit; proper

Margie had tropical fish in the 20-gallon aquarium that she kept against a wall of the living room./ The National Aquarium in Baltimore Maryland is a major tourist attrac- tion in that city’s inner harbor. >> aquarium  (uh KWAER ee uhm) n. 1. a tank, usually having glass sides, or a pool, bowl, etc. for keeping live water plants, fish, and/or aquatic mammals; 2. a building used to put such collections on exhibit

Moorish architecture is distinguished by its arabesques which might be carved into the stonework or might be in relief. / A ballet dancer’s arabesque is a pose that I would not have attempted even when I was 17 years old. / Pianists are likely to have encountered the arabesques of Robert Schumann. >> arabesque  (a ruh BESK) n. 1. a complex decorative design found in Moorish architecture, with intertwined lines suggesting foliage, flowers, and so on; 2. a bal- let position in which one leg is extended straight back, one arm is stretched for- ward, and the other arm is stretched backward; 3. a light musical composition

A farm is only as useful as its arable land./ Thomas bought the field on the basis of its arability. /[arability n.] >> arable  (AR i bl) adj. appropriate for plowing and, therefore, for growing crops -n. cultivatable land

Jackie’s dispute with the cable company was settled by binding arbitration meaning that the arbitrator’s decision was final and had to be abided by./ Nonbinding arbitration is more like advice after a fair hearing because nei- ther party has to follow that advice. >> arbitration  (AHR bit RA shn) n. the act of settling a dispute by a person or group picked to hear both sides and make a decision [arbitrator n. the person(s) who so decide(s)]

A tropical rain forest is an arboreal habitat—full of trees./ Certain monkeys and sloths are arboreal and spend their entire lives in the trees while squirrels are equally at home on the ground and out on a limb. >> arboreal  (ahr BAWR ee uhl) adj. 1. having to do with trees; 2. living in trees or adapted to living in trees

Most botanical gardens have their arboreal sections. / Tree sloths are among the arboreal creatures that like to just hang out. /[-ly adv.] >> arboreal  (ahr BAW re uhl) adj. having to do with trees; living in trees or designed for trees

Archaeology is responsible for most of what we know about the pharoahs of Egypt. / Archaeology is relatively new in America and yet it is amazing what it can tell us about the early inhabitants of the western United States. /[archaeological adj.] >> archaeology  (ahr kee AHL ij ee) n. the scientific study of the past (especially of past civilizations and cultures through excavation of their cities, their artifacts, and so on)

Oar-powered galleys were in fashion in ancient times but today would be thought of as archaic. / Some would say that wearing a tie and jacket in the workplace is an archaic custom. / The use of Latin in Catholic Church services has been ruled by Vatican II to be archaic. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. old] >> archaic  (ahr KAY ik) adj. 1. belonging to an earlier period; antiquated; 2. old fashioned; 3. no longer in use, except for special occasions

Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture is impressively displayed in New York City’s Guggenheim Museum of Art where visitors begin at the top and walk continuously downhill./ Perhaps our most celebrated naval architect was Admiral Hyman Rickover the father of the nuclear submarine./ The men who wrote the U.S. Constitution were the architects of American democracy. >> architect  (AHRK i tekt) n. 1. a person whose job is to design and draw up plans for buildings, bridges, etc.; 2. any similar designer in a specific field; 3. a planner or creator

Zelda embraced her new job as editor in chief with ardor. / The old-timer spoke with ardor as he recounted tales of the good old days in the 1970s. /[Syn. passion] >> ardor  (AHR doer) n. 1. eagerness; enthusiasm; zeal; 2. warm passion; fire

In the arenas of Rome gladiators’ swords often clashed./ Basketball is the most frequent conflict in today’s sports arenas like the Staples Center or Madison Square Garden./ Both candidates rolled up their sleeves and joined combat in the political arena just two weeks before election day. >> arena  (uh REE nuh) n. 1. The central part of an ancient Roman amphitheater, where gladators fought and shows were put on; 2. an area used for sporting and other events, usually surrounded by rows of seats; the building containing same; 3. any area of struggle or conflict

The argument for preserving our natural resources is that they are irreplace- able and in many cases unrenewable./ Randi might make the argument that iced drinks drunk too fast make you feel like they’re freezing your brain./ The candidates had an argument about the pros and cons of trying to eat French toast through a straw. >> argument  (AHR gyoo mint) n. 1. a reason or reasons offered for doing or not doing something; 2. the putting forth of such reasons; 3. a discussion containing disagreement; debate; dispute

Most of Nevada is arid desert despite the Colorado River./ Moesha’s social life is as arid as a mouthful of unsalted fat-free tortilla chips. /[-ness -ity n. -ly adv.] [Syn. dry] >> arid  (AR id) adj. 1. absent enough water for things to grow; dry; barren; 2. dull; lifeless; of no interest

During the French Revolution aristocratic government was rejected by the revolutionaries but it wasn’t long until Napoleon changed all that./ The aristocratic class in England sits in the House of Lords./ William was much admired for his aristocratic demeanor./ Elaine’s aristocratic manner was loathed by most who felt she was looking down her blue-blooded nose at them. /[aristocratically adv.] >> aristocratic  (uh RIS tuh KRAT ik) adj. 1. of, characteristic of, or favoring rule by an elite group as a form of government; 2. of the upper class or nobility; 3. like a member of the upper class or nobility in manner and/or taste or carrying oneself (used favorably, as proud, distinguished, etc. or unfavorably as snobbish, haughty, etc.)

The entertainer in the lounge seemed very arrogant for one who was not even close to being a headliner./ The arrogant bearing of the heavyweight champion was justly rewarded when he was knocked out in round one. /[-ly adv. arrogance n.] [Syn. proud] >> arrogant  (AR uh gnt) adj. full of or due to undeserved pride and self- importance; overbearing; haughty

It fell to Abraham Lincoln to articulate the needs and wishes of his constituents. / Many new automobiles have windshield-wiper arms that articulate to clean more of the windshield than the older ones. / Bones of human legs are articulated at the knees and at the ankles. / It is a plus in the business world if you are articulate. / Katherine’s presentation to the school board was very articulate. /[-d articulating -ness n.] >> articulate  (ahr TIK yoo LAYT for verb, ar TIK yi lit for adj.) vt. 1. to annunciate; to speak; to put into spoken or written words; to express clearly; 2. to arrange in connected sequence —adj. 1. having parts connected by joints; 2. well spoken; able to speak; 3. clearly presented

Artifacts from the wreck of the Titanic are making their rounds of American and British museums. / The earliest artifacts to have survived to the present time are from the Old Stone Age. >> artifact  (AHR ti FAKT) n. anything man-made (especially a primitive tool, vessel, or weapon)

When asked how he’d managed to sculpt Muhammad Ali so realistically the artist replied “I used Cassius clay.”/ Mark Twain was an artist with the spoken and written word./ The Beatles were the most prolific recording artists of their day. >> artist  (AHRT ist) n. 1. a person who is skilled in or works in the techniques of fine arts, especially in drawing, painting, sculpture, etc.; 2. someone who does any- thing very well, imaginatively, and with a feeling for form, effect, etc.; 3. one in any of the performing arts (dance, theater, etc.)

Life in Tahiti was romanticized by the artistic touch of Paul Gaugin’s paint- ings of the islanders’ customs./ Van Gogh’s Sunflowers is very artistic with a balanced composition that is very pleasing to the eye./ Picasso’s revulsion by the Spanish Civil War comes through in his artistic antiwar statement Guernica. /[-ally adv.] >> artistic  (ahr TIS tik) adj. 1. of or by art or artist(s); 2. skillful and tasteful; aes- thetically satisfying; 3. sensitive to artistic values

Leonardo daVinci’s Mona Lisa is an artwork that has withstood the test of time./ If you get to Paris don’t miss the opportunity to check out the magnifi- cent artwork that’s housed in the Louvre. >> artwork  (AHRT woerk) n. a single work of art, or works of art, collectively

Gandhi led an ascetic life permitting himself few comforts./ The ascetic refused to buy chairs with any kind of cushions or padding lest he be thought of as pampering himself. /[-ally adv. -ism n.] [Syn. severe] >> ascetic  (uh SET ik) adj. self-denying; austere —n. 1. a person who lives a life of rigorous self-denial for whatever purpose; 2. anyone living with strict self-discipline and renouncing the usual comforts and pleasures

The falling of nuclear power plants into mistrust and disrepute is ascribed to events at Chernobyl in the USSR./ The Iliad and The Odyssey are epics that were passed down over the cen- turies as part of oral tradition until they were finally written down and ascribed to Homer. /[-d ascribing] >> ascribe  (uhs KRYB) vt. 1. to credit to or blame something on a specific cause, event, person, etc.; 2. to regard something as being the work of or belonging to someone

Linda’s aspect is bright cheery and happy-go-lucky./ As viewed from my aspect the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer are rather old- fashioned and stilted./ In deciding whether to build a new water main the problem must be viewed from the aspect of the contractor as well as that of the eventual consumer./ How well a chess player uses his or her knights is just one aspect of the game./ The northern aspect of Glenn’s house never got sunlight. >> aspect  (AS pekt) ) n. 1. how a person appears or looks; 2. how something looks from a specific point of view; 3. any of the numerous ways in which a problem, idea, etc. can be looked at; 4. a certain part or quality; element; 5. a side facing in a certain direction

The asperity of the moon’s surface is approximated in Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument. / The area of the United States known as tornado alley is infamous for the asperity of its summer weather. /[asperities pl.] >> asperity  (uhs PER it ee) n. roughness or harshness of surface, weather, sound, or temperament

It was always Henry’s aspiration to become a doctor. / It is essential to wear a mask when sanding to lessen the risk of dust aspiration. >> aspiration  (AS pir AY shin) n. 1. a strong desire or ambition; 2. breathing in, as of dust or pollen into the lungs

Joshua assailed the walls of Jericho with trumpets—or so the story goes. / The opposing party assailed the ruling party’s budget bill with alacrity. / Jason assailed the job of drywalling the bathroom with an energy his father lacked. / The sound from the boom box assailed Sally’s ears. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. attack] >> assail  (uh SAYL) vt. 1. to attack physically, or with arguments; assault; 2. to begin working (on a task) with vigor

Harold had to assert that he was actually himself rather than the culprit who had stolen his identity./ You must assert your right to vote by registering and then by showing up to cast your vote on election day./ When summoned to court Dolores asserted her right to be represented by counsel./ Rodrigo asserted his innocence. /[-ed -ing -ion n.] >> assert  (uh SOERT) vt. 1. to declare; affirm; to state positively; 2. to defend or maintain (rights, claims, etc.); 3. to insist

The city assesses each lot and its improvements to determine what the property owner must pay to city hall./ For being late in paying her parking ticket the judge assessed Eleanor a penalty of $40./ The town decided to assess a 1% sales tax on top of the 6% already charged by the state./ For purposes of insurance the appraiser assessed the painting’s value at $1200 to $1500. /[-ed -ing -ment n.] >> assess  (uh SES) vt. 1. to estimate the value of something (for example, property) for the purpose of taxing it; 2. to set the amount of (a tax, a fine, damages, etc.); 3. to impose a fine, tax, etc.; 4. to estimate or determine the significance, importance, or worth of something; to evaluate

Nuclear submarines must be built by assiduous workers./ To learn algebra well you must be assiduous in doing your homework assignments./ The difference between a mediocre potter and an exceptional craftsman is that the latter is assiduous. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. busy] >> assiduous  (uh SID yoo uhss) adj. 1. gone about with constant and careful atten- tion; 2. industrious; persevering

It is up to our digestive tracts to perform assimilation of the nutrients from the food that we ingest. / Assimilation of diverse cultures is what has made the United States the melting pot of modern civilization. /[(to) assimilate vt.] >> assimilation  (uh SIM il AY shin) n. the absorption and incorporation of one thing into another

Dawn likes to assist her parents with the laundry/ she dirties it./ Freddie assists at the school library by reshelving returns./ May I give you an assist with starting your car? /[-ed -ing] [Syn. help] >> assist  (uh SIST) vt. 1. to aid; give help to; 2. to work as a helper —n. helping someone to do something

Barry and Bob have chosen to associate and form The Killer Bees—a com- pany that will make buzzers./ For their advertising needs The Killer Bees have decided to associate with Bell Star and Associates./ I often associate peanut butter with jelly/ don’t you?/ The non–chief justices of the U.S. Supreme Court are associate justices./ Betty and Veronica are associates in a certain comic book./ Jim earned an associate degree from County College./ Barry is a sales associate at a major appliance store. /[-d -ciating] >> associate  (uh SOH shee ayt for vt., uh soh SHEE it for n. and adj.) vt. 1. to con- nect; combine; join together; 2. to bring a person into a relationship (friendship, partnership, etc.); 3. to connect mentally —n. 1. somebody with whom one is con- nected, such as a partner, friend, fellow worker, etc.; 2. a member of some group, firm, society, etc. with less than full status; 3. anything joined to some other thing -adj. 1. joined with others in some kind of work; 2. of less than full status; 3. con- nected; accompanying

Take two aspirin or acetominophen if you are an adult and are seeking to assuage the pain of a headache. / Checks arriving on time might help to assuage the dissatisfaction of the company’s laborers. / Take a canteen full of water with you on a hike to assuage the thirst that is bound to come. /[-d assuaging] [Syn. relieve] >> assuage  (uh SWAYJ) vt. 1. to lessen; allay (for example, pain); 2. to calm; pacify (for example, anger); 3. to relieve hunger or thirst

When Jodi put on the costume she assumed the appearance of a human- sized mouse./ After a coup Napoleon assumed the power to rule France./ Marty will assume the task of providing refreshments./ I assumed that Geri had bought tickets and I was wrong./ You may assume the role of the nuclear scientist even though you failed to pass arithmetic. /[-d assuming] >> assume  (uh SOOM or uh SYOOM) vt. 1. to put on or take on the appearance, job, form, etc. of; 2. to grab; usurp; 3. to personally undertake; 4. to take for granted; 5. to feign; pretend to have

The Feast of the Assumption is a Roman Catholic holiday./ The First Bank just completed the assumption of Harry and Peter’s mortgage loan so from now on the monthly checks should be made out to First Bank./ Napoleon’s assumption of the title of emperor gave the rest of Europe some- thing to be concerned about./ The assumption that you were going to get a B or better in chemistry does not appear to have been well founded. >> assumption  (uh SUHMP shn) n. 1. (religious) the taking up of a person into heaven; a Roman Catholic holiday celebrating the Virgin Mary’s being taken up; 2. a taking upon one’s self, taking over, or taking up; an assuming; 3. anything taken for granted; a supposing

Getting out of the dot.com stocks just before they crashed was an astute move on Jerry’s part./ A fox is a very astute animal often referred to as cunning./ If Hal were astute he’d pick up on Lynn’s hint to call her. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. shrewd] >> astute  (ast OOT, ast YOOT) adj. being clever or shrewd of mind; cunning; crafty; wily

It takes a trained athlete to perform on the parallel bars./ Tammy proved her ability as an athlete when she ran the 100-meter sprint in less than 11 seconds. /[athletic adj. athletically adv.] >> athlete  (ATH leet) n. someone trained in exercises, games, or contests requiring physical strength, speed, skill, stamina, etc.

Sherry worked very hard to attain a B+ average./ It took Lillian and Bob the better part of two days’ worth of climbing to attain the peak of Mount Hood. /[-ed -ing -able adj. -ability n.] [Syn. reach] >> attain  (uh TAYN) vt. 1. to gain; accomplish; achieve; 2. to reach or come to; arrive at

Debbie had to pay attention to navigate the treacherous winding road./ Mike’s attention wasn’t always on his work./ Farah’s smile caught Todd’s attention./ This matter will receive our immediate attention./ Smart congressmen always pay careful attention to the needs of their constituents./ The sergeant barked the order to come to attention. >> attention  (uh TEN shn) n. 1. the act of keeping one’s mind on something or the ability to do that; concentration; mental readiness for such concentration; 2. observation or notice; 3. care or consideration; 4. thoughtfulness for the needs of others; courtesy; 5. the military command to come to erect posture

Victor assumed a humble attitude as he prayed./ Phyllis made it clear that she was not impressed by Wilma’s haughty atti- tude of self-righteousness./ The coach was impressed by Joe’s positive attitude./ The plane’s attitude changed as it banked 45° to port. /[attitudinal adj.] [Syn. posture] >> attitude  (AT i tood) n. 1. the position or posture assumed by the body in con- nection with an action, feeling, mood, etc.; 2. a manner of acting, thinking, or feel- ing that shows one’s disposition, opinion, etc.; 3. one’s disposition, opinion, men- tal set, etc.; 4. the position of an air- or spacecraft with respect to a given line or plane, such as the horizon

Scholars attribute many sonnets to Shakespeare without having any real evidence that he wrote them./ The motion picture Gentle Ben attributes the quality of gentleness to a bear./ The attribute of winged sandals is often used to represent the Greek god Hermes or Roman Mercury. /[-d attributing attributable adj. attribution n.] [Syn. ascribe quality] >> attribute  (at TRIB yoot for vt., AT rib YOOT for n.) vt. 1. to think of as belong- ing to, produced by, resulting from, or originating in; assign; ascribe to; 2. assign as a characteristic or quality —n. 1. a characteristic or quality of a person or thing; 2. a thing in art or literature used as a symbol for a person, office, etc.

Failing to run away when people came near was atypical behavior on the part of the raccoon./ It was atypical for Ryan to display poor manners. /[(also atypic) -ly adv.] >> atypical  (ay TIP i kl) adj. not usual; not characteristic; abnormal

Severely outnumbered the platoon’s audacious attack caught the enemy by surprise./ After Sonya had had one drink too many her audacious behavior toward the host got her ejected from the party. /[-ness n. -ly adv.] [Syn. bold] >> audacious  (aw DAY shuhs) adj. 1. bold or daring; fearless; 2. not restrained by a feeling of shame or impropriety; rudely bold; brazen

The audience completely filled the theater to see Aida./ The Superbowl always draws a large TV audience./ Stephen King has a ready audience for whatever he writes./ The TV networks all gave the candidates an audience so that the public might hear their positions./ Very few are fortunate enough to get an audience with the president of the United States. >> audience  (AW dee ens) n. 1. a group of people assembled to see and hear a speaker, play, concert, etc.; 2. everybody who is tuned in to a particular TV or radio show; 3. everybody who hears what one says or who reads what one writes; one’s public; 4. a chance to have one’s ideas heard; 5. a formal interview with a person in a high position

Sam worked nights to augment his income./ The chili’s heat was augmented by adding canned jalapenos. /[-ed -ing -ation n.] >> augment  (awg MENT) vt. to increase in quantity, strength, size, etc.; enlarge -vi. to become larger; increase

The news report from the Middle East seemed authentic./ That is an authentic diamond ring that Jill is wearing./ The raised seal on the document proves that it’s authentic. /[-ally adv.] >> authentic  (awth EN tik) adj. 1. trustworthy; believable; reliable; 2. real; in fact; genuine; 3. legally executed, as a deed

The immigration agent authenticated the passport with a raised seal./ The painting was authenticated by the art expert to be an actual work of Lambrou Mourioti./ The maker’s hallmark on the silver vase was used to authenticate it as hav- ing been made around 1870. /[-d authenticating authentication n.] [Syn. confirm] >> authenticate  (awth EN tik AYT) vt. 1. to valididate or make authentic; 2. to verify; establish the truth of; 3. to prove to be real, genuine, or as represented or advertised

Many pirates were driven by avarice./ Avarice drives certain CEOs to cheat their stockholders. /[avaricious adj. avariciously adv. avariciousness n.] >> avarice  (A voer is) n. greed; too great a desire for wealth

A witness at a trial must aver that everything he or she will say will be true. / Don’t aver that Bob was where he says he was unless you witnessed it yourself. / I aver that I am getting a headache. /[averred averring] [Syn. assert] >> aver  (uh VOER) vt. to declare to be true; affirm; state positively

Many children have an aversion to seeing a doctor for shots./ Barry who had a fear of heights was made to go to high places as a form of aversion therapy. >> aversion  (uh VER zhin) n. 1. an intense or decided dislike; repugnance; 2. what- ever is causing that dislike

As part of her weight-loss diet Maria tries to avoid people who are eating as well as commercials for food./ Driving carefully helps to avoid accidents./ Being shy Vance tries to avoid the eyes of others. /[-able adj. -ably adv.] [Syn. escape] >> avoid  (uh VOYD) vt. 1. to stay away from; evade; shun; 2. to not let happen; 3. to turn away from

Fran was well aware of the No Parking sign./ Bill was not aware that he kept clicking his teeth together./ Maribel was made aware of the restriction on eating peas by picking them up with one’s knife. /[-ness n.] >> aware  (uh WAER) adj. realizing or knowing; informed; conscious

The first time Ron saw Mt. Kilamanjaro he was filled with awe./ Ruth stood in awe of her older brother David the rocket scientist. >> awe  (AW) n. a mixed feeling of fear, respect, and wonder brought on by some- thing majestic, sacred, sublime, etc.

Police put up barricades to keep the crowd off the parade route./ Barricades consisting of piled-up rubble were used for defense by soldiers in the cities of post–D-day Europe during World War II./ The people of Stalingrad barricaded the streets to keep out the invading Germans. /[-d barricading] >> barricade  (BAR I kayd) n. 1. a defense barrier hastily thrown up, as in street fight- ing; 2. any obstacle or barrier —vt. to keep out or in by use of a barrier; to obstruct

In colonial days it was common for settlers to barter knives and hatchets to Native Americans for beaver pelts./ Barter that hat for two pairs of socks and a Hershey bar./ Al and Frank often do business by barter./ This hat cost me nothing/ I got it from Alice by barter. /[-ed -ing -er n.] >> barter  (BAHR toer) vi. to trade goods or services without the use of money —vt. to swap goods or services in return for other goods and services; trade —n. 1. the act of swapping; 2. anything swapped

A basic course in weaving might be helpful to rug makers./ A knowledge of mathematics is basic to learning physics./ Honesty is a basic principle to live by. >> basic  (BAY sik) adj. 1. of or at the beginning; fundamental; essential; 2. making or being a support or introduction; elementary

“What is the basis for your accusing me of eating on the job?” Gail asked quickly swallowing what was in her mouth./ That all men are created equal is the basis of the U.S. Constitution./ We pay for cable TV on a monthly basis./ Mark and Louise are on a friendly basis these days. >> basis  (BAY sis) n. 1. the start, foundation, or main support of anything; 2. the main ingredient of anything; 3. the underlying philosophy; 4. a timed plan or pro- cedure; 5. a certain attitude

Tailors baste a garment together to line everything up before they do the actual stitching of the finished item. / When cooking a turkey it is customary to baste it every 20 minutes or so to keep it moist. /[-d basting] >> baste  (BAYST) vt. 1 to sew with long, loose stitches to keep a garment together prior to the actual final stitching; to tack; 2. to moisten meat while roasting with drippings, melted butter, and so on

One of the most intense battles in the Pacific during WWII was for the island of Iwo Jima./ There was a street battle between two rival gangs./ The landlord and tenant had an ongoing battle over upkeep./ Nemo’s father battled the move to expel him from school./ Geoffrey was in the battle for human rights in El Salvador./ Oscar de la Hoya and Ray Mancini were in a real ring battle. /[-d battling] >> battle  (BA tl) n. 1. a fight—as that between armed units on the sea, land, or in the air; 2. war or armed combat; fighting; 3. any conflict or fight —vt. to oppose; fight —vi. 1. to participate in a fight or struggle; 2. to fight

Harriet spoke in behalf of the truth’s being known./ The lawyer appeared on behalf of his client Mr. Jones. >> behalf  (be HAF) n. on (or in) behalf of; in the interest of; speaking for; representing

Nora’s behavior seemed perfectly normal to Dennis./ Juanita thought Ted’s behavior to be rather strange when she saw him hit his finger with a hammer and laugh./ Amy was disturbed by her car engine’s rough behavior. >> behavior  (be HAYV yoer) n. 1. how anybody acts; conduct; deportment; 2. any organism’s reaction to stimulus—especially a recordable response; 3. noticeable actions or responses of any person, animal, or machine

Any living thing is in a state of being./ Any plant or animal can be thought of as a being./ Very few people acknowedge a fly as a being but it is one./ Most religions believe in the existence of a Higher Being. >> being  (BEE eeng) n. 1. existing or living; life; existence; 2. basic or essential nature; 3. someone or thing that is alive or exists; 4. all the qualities, physical and mental, that make up a person; personality

Al’s good-natured smile belies his evil intentions./ Sally hated to belie her customer by telling her the cake she had ordered was not yet ready./ It is a debunker’s job to belie the tricks of charlatans. /[-d belying] >> belie  (bee LY) vt. 1. to disguise; misrepresent; 2. to disappoint or leave unful- filled; 3. to prove false or show to be untrue

Geoffrey’s belief that there is a tooth fairy is based on a chapter from his book of bedtime stories./ Maribel’s beliefs are between her and her pastor—and are none of our business./ Valerie had complete belief in Harper’s honesty./ It was her belief that Santa would show up later./ Your accomplishments are totally beyond belief. >> belief  (bee LEEF) n. 1. a conviction that some things are true or real; 2. faith, especially in a religious sense; 3. confidence in; trust in; 4. something accepted as true; 5. an opinion; an expectation; a judgment

During World War I the belligerents engaged in four years of unmoving trench warfare./ The belligerent adversaries duked it out in the ring./ Veronica’s attitude was always belligerent as if she were seeking to get into an argument. /[belligerently adv.] [Syn. bellicose] >> belligerent  (bel IDG oer ent) adj. 1. at war; 2. relating to war; of fighting; 3. showing an eagerness to fight; spoiling for a fight

Mary’s friendship turned out to be beneficial to Evelyn around holiday time./ Having auto insurance proved quite beneficial for Tania when a reckless driver ignored the stop sign and hit her car./ It is beneficial for you to have an individual retirement plan. /[-ly adv.] >> beneficial  (BEN e FISH uhl) adj. 1. to the advantage of; helpful; 2. getting bene- fit; 3. in one’s best interest

The singer sang at a benefit to raise money for the group./ The cab waited an additional 10 minutes for Bob’s benefit./ My singing publicly benefited the business of all ear doctors in the neighborhood./ A playwright benefits from each performance of her play. /[-ed -ing] >> benefit  (BEN e fit) n. 1. a helpful, charitable act; 2. an advantage; a gain —vt. to help; aid —vi. to gain; to profit from

John’s family had a history of being benevolent toward charities. / The March of Dimes counts on its reputation for contributions from benevolent organizations and individuals. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. kind] >> benevolent  (bin EV il int) adj. inclined to do good or doing good; kindly; charitable

Beatrice gave Roger a benign smile as she passed. / Vera was relieved to learn from her oncologist that the tumor was benign. >> benign  (bi NYN) adj. 1. good natured; favorable; beneficial; 2. noncancerous; nonmalignant

Don’t berate me for acting the way you act./ Audrey berated Robert for driving after having had a drink. /[-d berating] [Syn. scold] >> berate  (be RAYT) vt. to scold or strongly rebuke (with wagging finger)

For his crime the criminal was bereft of his freedom./ The crime victim was bereft of her feeling of security./ The bereft twins mourned the death of their uncle. >> bereft  (bi REFT) adj. 1. without; devoid (of); deprived; 2. bereaved

Benedict Arnold betrayed his defenses to the British./ Bill went to the broker so as not to betray Anne’s faith in his ability to get tickets for Cats./ Nan got Sue to join the team convincing her that they’d have fun togeth- er/ then she betrayed her by quitting./ During the game Sue betrayed Hal’s hiding place to Jim. /[-d -ing -al -er n.] [Syn. deceive reveal] >> betray  (bit RAY) vt. 1. to aid the enemy, or make vulnerable to the enemy in a traitorous way; 2. to break faith with; to not act up to expectations; 3. to deceive; 4. to give away secret information

The gate is between the third and fourth fence posts./ Lunchtime comes between breakfast and dinner times./ That color is between blue and green./ Second gear is between first and third gears./ In between jobs Hannah and her sisters took a vacation./ Let’s keep this between you and me. >> between  (bit WEEN) prep. 1. in or through the area separating two things; 2. in the time separating two things; 3. along a path that connects two things —adv. 1. in a middle location, time, space, or function; 2. in the midst of; 3. in confidence

Jose was bewildered by the Times’ crossword puzzle./ Alice’s disappearing coin trick served to bewilder Francine./ On Ian’s visit to the art supply store he was faced with a bewildering selec- tion of brushes and palette knives. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. puzzle] >> bewilder  (bee WIL der) vt. to thoroughly confuse, as by something very involved and complicated; befuddle; puzzle

The seamstress sewed the hem on a bias./ As Jason aged his childhood bias in favor of dark-meat chicken had changed to one for white meat/ go figure./ The attorney feared that the judge might be unduly biased by his client’s unsavory reputation./ Kira’s wallpaper choice is biased by her love of earth tones. /[-ed -ing] >> bias  (BY uhs) n. 1. a line cut or sewn on the diagonal to the weave of a cloth; 2. a mental partiality or slant; bent; partiality; inclination —vt. to have a prejudice; to influence

Carl and Violet bicker all the time about everything./ The brook bickers in the breeze./ Carl and Violet just had another minor bicker./ One can barely hear the bicker of a snake coming down the path. /[-ed -ing] >> bicker  (BI kuhr) vi. 1. to quarrel in a petty manner; to squabble; 2. (rare) to move with quick, rippling noises —n. 1. a little quarrel; 2. a rippling or a pattering sound

Miguel demonstrated his bigotry by refusing to sit at a table with anyone who was not from Uruguay. / Belief in racial stereotypes is characteristic of bigotry. /[bigotries pl. bigot n.] >> bigotry  (BIG uh tree) adj. the behavior, attitudes, and beliefs of a prejudiced, intolerant person

The raccoon bilked all attempts to catch him./ The investors were bilked out of millions by crooked management./ Nate bilked the bank by his failure to make payments./ The crook bilked the police. /[-ed -ing] >> bilk  (BILK) vt. 1 to thwart; 2. to swindle; cheat; defraud; 3. to escape or flee leaving unpaid debts; 4. to elude

A botanist is only interested in the plant part of the biological sciences./ Mark’s scientific interests are purely biological./ Your biological parents are your real mother and father. /[-ly adv. (also biologic)] >> biological  (BY uh LAH gzhi kl) adj. 1. of or connected to living things; 2. relat- ed genetically, in contrast to by adoption

Milk is a very bland drink when compared to orange or grapefruit juice. / Tex-Mex food is noted for the piquantness of its flavor and is anything but bland. /[-ness n.] [Syn. smooth tasteless] >> bland  (BLAND) adj. 1 mild and soothing rather than harsh and grating; 2. without taste; flavorless; insipid; dull

The contractor checked the blueprint of the house to see what materials he would need to order./ With its adoption in 1789 the U.S. Constitution became the blueprint for American democracy. >> blueprint  (BLOO print) n. 1. a plan drawn in white on a blue background and used by architects or engineers; 2. any exact or detailed plan

For organic matter Martha used peat from the nearby bog to enrich her garden soil./ The Medicare revisions got bogged down in committee. /[-ged -ging] >> bog  (BAHG) n. wet, spongy area of ground, noted for smelly decaying mosses that form peat —vi., vt. to get stuck in; mired (usually with down)

Janice was boggled by the huge pile of papers that needed correcting. / Crossword puzzles often boggle the mind. / Eddie boggled at the idea of robbing a grocery store. /[-d boggling] >> boggle  (BAHG il) vt. 1. to confuse or overwhelm; 2. to hesitate at (because of scruples)

Bogus Rolex watches are available on every street corner around Times Square for $50 or less. / If someone offers you a diamond solitaire for about $100 there’s a good chance that it’s bogus. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. false] >> bogus  (BOH gis) adj. not real or genuine; spurious

Football crowds can get somewhat boisterous especially when beer is being consumed. / Try to keep from being too boisterous when you play with your friends. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. vociferous] >> boisterous  (BOY stris) adj. 1. noisy and unruly; rowdy; 2. rough and stormy

Diane’s family came to bolster her during her testimony. / Please put the bolsters back on the sofa. / Bolsters are used to cap the bearing part of a beam and extend its support outward. /[-ed -ing] >> bolster  (BOHL stir) vt. to prop up or support; reinforce —n. 1. a long, narrow cushion; 2. any bolsterlike cushion or support

“You make your bed right now or I’m not going to feed you for the next week” is either an example of bombast or an indication of child abuse. / Nikita Khrushchev’s “We shall bury you!” speech is a better-known exam- ple of bombast. /[-ic adj. -ically adv.] >> bombast  (BAHM bast) n. talk or writing that sounds very important but has no meaning; pompous language

Stop acting like a boor. / When Cindy turned her back on Rita and refused to acknowledge her greeting she behaved boorishly. /[-ish adj. -ishly adv.]  >> boor  (BOR) n. a rude, ill-mannered, or awkward person

Before hanging the door I must bore holes for the hinges./ Gino bored holes for the deck’s concrete footings./ Gracie bored through the rush-hour crowd./ Go away/ you bore me./ The plot was very predictable and therefore very boring./ The hole in the wall was a very shallow bore./ Shotgun barrels come in various bores. /[-d boring -dom n.] >> bore  (BAWR) vt. 1 to make a hole with a drill; 2. to dig a well, tunnel, etc. with a turning helical tool; 3. to push one’s way (through) —vi. to tire of or lose interest in —n. 1. a hole made by a drill; 2. the interior of a hollow tube

It is often considered an insult to call one’s beliefs bourgeois. / The bourgeois class before the French Revolution of 1789 was the group of shopkeepers and self-employed persons between the aristocracy and the workers (or proletariat). /[-e fem. -ie n.] >> bourgeois  (BUR zhwah or bur ZHWAH) adj. conventional; middle class; ordinary —n. 1. a shopkeeper or a businessman; 2. a member of the middle class

No computer can yet equal the human brain./ A flea’s brain is not very complex./ You don’t need instructions/ just use your brains./ When it comes to planning Kevin’s the brains of this outfit./ Roger got brained by the baseball bat. /[-ed -ing] >> brain  (BRAYN) n. 1 the mass of tissue inside the skull of vertebrates; the organ that is the destination for the spinal cord, the main center of reasoning and inter- preter of senses, as well as the director of motor functions; 2. a comparable organ in an invertebrate; 3. (often pl.) mental capacity; intelligence; 4. (usually pl.) the chief organizer or planner of a group event; head director —vt. to hit hard on the head

When you brandish that saber everyone ducks for cover./ Helen brandished the fireplace poker as if she wanted to strike someone with it. /[-ed -ing] >> brandish  (BRAEN dish) vt. to wave about or shake, in a threatening or chal- lenging way; flourish

Custer’s attack at the Little Bighorn was brazen if not very smart. / Trumpets have a very piercing brazen sound. /[-ly adv.]  >> brazen  (BRAY zin) adj. 1. showing no shame; bold; impudent; 2. of brass; the color of brass

Peggy broached the subject of going to the movies tomorrow evening. / Given how hot it had been all day someone was bound to broach the idea of going swimming. / Tom broached the cask of root beer using a tool known (appropriately enough) as a broach. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. utter] >> broach  (BROHCH) vt. 1. to start a discussion of; bring up; introduce; 2. to drill a hole (in a cask); to tap (a keg) —n. a tool for drilling

A life vest makes one buoyant so that should you accidentally fall from a boat you would float. / Spiritual songs are often buoyant lifting one’s spirits. /[-ly adv. buoyancy n.] >> buoyant  (BOY int) adj. 1. having or showing the ability to float; 2. having the ability to lift one’s spirits

The drywall was a heavy burden for the roof of the car./ When Jill sat on the jury she had the burden of deciding the guilt or inno- cence of the defendant./ Certain trucks are classified by the burden they can carry./ I hate to burden you with the job of deciding what to wear. /[-ed -ing] >> burden  (BOER din) n. 1. a load; anything carried; 2. something one has to put up with; a heavy load; hard work; sorrow or responsibility —vt. to weigh down; to oppress

Verna burnished the silverware in preparation for the big dinner. / After being polished the mirror had a nice burnish. /[-ed -ing] >> burnish  (BOER nish) vt. to make or become shiny by rubbing; polish —n. a gloss or a polished finish

Groundhogs live in burrows of their own making./ Some animals often find shelter in burrows dug by others./ Burrowing through old files led to finding the real murderer./ Construction crews burrowed beneath the English Channel to build the Chunnel connecting the U.K. and France. /[-ed -ing] >> burrow  (BOER o) n. 1. a hole dug by an animal or a tunnel in the ground; 2. any hole or passage serving as a shelter, refuge, etc. —vi. 1. to dig (into, under, etc.); 2. search as if by digging —vt. to make burrows in the ground

Many Gothic buildings sport buttresses to reinforce them./ Flash cards can be thought of as buttresses for rote learning of facts./ Buttress your argument against the tax hike by having the documentation concerning the results of previous hikes. /[-ed -ing] >> buttress  (BUH tris) n. a brace, usually of brick or stone, built against a wall to support or reinforce it; a prop —vt. 1. to support or reinforce with such a structure; 2. to prop up; bolster

A cacophony of automobile and truck horns greeted the ears of pedestrians walking by the traffic jam. / When the 35 members of the second-grade band began to play their instruments the audience was greeted with a cacophony of screeches. /[cacophonous adj. cacophonously adv. cacophonies pl.] >> cacophony  (kuh KA fin ee) n. harsh, jarring sound; noise

Most children learn to cadge (or not to) at an early age. / Jason never cadged/ he just asked for two of anything he wanted figuring that his parents would compromise and get him one. /[-d cadging] >> cadge  (KADZH) vt. to beg or to acquire as a result of begging; to sponge

Maxine tried to cajole her husband into going to the movies./ Barney cajoled Lois to accompany him to the book sale. /[-d cajoling -ry n. cajolingly adv.] [Syn. coax] >> cajole  (kuh JOHL) vt. to coax with insincere talk; to flatter in hopes of getting one’s way; to wheedle

The loss of a loved one is always a calamity./ The attack on the World Trade Center ranks with Pearl Harbor among the U.S.A.’s greatest calamities. /[calamitous adj. calamitously adv.] [Syn. disaster] >> calamity  (kuh LAM i tee) n. 1. deep trouble; misery; 2. any great misfortune entailing sorrow and loss; disaster

Most bathroom scales need to be calibrated by means of a knurled knob. / Instant-read meat thermometers can be calibrated by turning their dials. /[-d calibrating] >> calibrate  (CAL ib RAYT) vt. to fix, check, or adjust the graduations of an instru- ment of measurement, such as a meter or scale

By swinging the legs of a caliper apart and then bringing both tips to the opposite sides of a glass the glass’s outside diameter can be measured. / Disk brakes bring a car to a stop by the calipers pressing their pads against the captive rotors. >> caliper  (KAL ip oer) n. 1. an instrument with two curved legs joined at one end by a rivet and used to measure thicknesses and diameters; 2. the part that presses against the spinning wheel in a bicycle brake or on a car’s disc brakes

Camaraderie is most likely to develop among military comrades who have been through some combat together./ A general feeling of camaraderie pervaded the air as the business associates gathered in the tavern to relax and share their tales on a Friday afternoon. >> camaraderie  (kam uh RAD oer ee) n. warm, friendly feelings of loyalty among comrades; comradeship

It is customary to camouflage soldiers and weapons to keep them hidden from the enemy. / Camouflage is worn by all U.S. soldiers and Marines under battlefield conditions. /[-d camouflaging] >> camouflage  (KAM uh FLAHZH) vt. to disguise a person or thing to conceal it (from an enemy) —n. any such disguise or disguising

The Second World War’s European campaign was fought to liberate the cap- tive nations and to defeat Germany./ Andrea was involved in the presidential election campaign./ She campaigned enthusiastically for (then) Senator Kerry. /[-ed -ing -er n.] [Syn. battle] >> campaign  (kam PAYN) n. 1. a sequence of military operations aimed at a cer- tain objective; 2. a series of organized actions for some specific purpose —vi. to be involved in a campaign

Charlie canvassed the canvas with the art appraiser to determine the insur- ance value of the painting./ Samantha canvassed the mothers at the soccer game trying to get some orders for Daryl’s school fund-raiser./ Canvassing potential voters was how the paper was able to predict the out- come of the election. /[**Alert** Do not confuse with canvas the cloth.] [-ed -ing -er n.] >> canvass  (KAV vuhs) vt. 1. to look over carefully; 2. to go to or among (people) to seek votes, orders, etc. —vi. to try to get votes, orders, etc.; solicit —n. the act of asking a targeted group of people questions such as who they voted for, what brands they use, etc., especially in an attempt to estimate the outcome of an elec- tion, sales campaign, etc.

The captive was behind bars./ The first time Iris saw San Francisco she became captive to its charm./ A babysitter is captive to his or her charge./ For many years Poland was a captive nation of the USSR./ Ian loves to play his guitar before a captive audience. >> captive  (KAP tiv) n. 1. one captured and held prisoner; 2. a person enthralled, as by love or beauty —adj. 1. taken or held prisoner; 2. unable to act independently; 3. made to watch/listen (as in a captive audience)

One’s career is not always the one prepared for./ Some veterinarians pursue that career deliberately while for others it is a booby prize for failing medical school./ Herbert decided to become a career soldier. >> career  (kuh RIR) n. 1. one’s way of earning a living; lifework; 2. a profession or occupation for which one trains and which one pursues for life —adj. adapting a normally temporary activity as a lifework

Unlike herbivores who eat plants and omnivores who eat both plants and animals a carnivore prefers a diet of meat./ The Venus flytrap is a plant that can be categorized a carnivore. /[carnivorous adj. carnivorously adv.] >> carnivore  (KAHR ni VAWR) n. 1. any of a number of fanged, flesh-eating mammals, like lions and tigers and bears; 2. an animal that eats other animals; 3. a plant that eats small animals—especially insects.

Wolves hunt mostly mammalian prey because they are carnivorous./ The sundew represents a class of carnivorous plants./ Having canine teeth or fangs is a carnivorous trait. >> carnivorous  (kahr NIV oer uhs) adj. 1. flesh eating (as opposed to herbivorous); 2. insect eating (applying to some plants); 3. of the carnivores

Mercator is the name of the man who is probably the best-known cartogra- pher who ever lived./ Robinson is another well-known cartographer. >> cartographer  (kahr TOG ruh fuhr) n. a person who designs and makes maps or charts

The police chief proceeded to castigate the officers for showing poor judgment dealing with the demonstrators./ The nine-year-old castigated the president for not being able to pronounce “nuclear.” /[-d castigating castigation castigator n. castigatory adj.] [Syn. punish] >> castigate  (KAS ti gayt) vt. to punish or bawl out, especially by using harsh public criticism

During the process of photosynthesis chlorophyll is the catalyst for plants combining water and carbon dioxide to manufacture sugar and oxygen in the presence of light./ The catalyst for Karen and David giving their realtor an immediate deposit on the house was another couple’s interest in it. >> catalyst  (KAT uh list) n. 1. an agent in a chemical reaction that causes the reaction to speed up, but does not itself undergo any permanent change; 2. a per- son or thing that speeds up a result

The watchman often takes two- or three-minute catnaps./ Karen often catnaps while watching TV at night. /[-ped -ping] >> catnap  (KAT nap) n. a doze; a short, light sleep —vi. to take a snooze

Some acids are more caustic than others and you don’t want to get them on your skin. / Sarcasm is caustic wit at its most virulent. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. corrosive sarcastic] >> caustic  (KAHS tik) adj. 1. able to eat away, burn, and destroy living tissue by chemical means; corrosive; 2. biting or sarcastic in wit; cutting type of humor or remark

The bomb-squad member was very cautious in his approach to the mysteri- ous package./ Cautious people regret less later. /[-ness n. -ly adv.] [Syn. careful] >> cautious  (KAW shus) adj. very careful; trying to avoid danger; wary; circumspect

Barry had a cavalier attitude about his manners and it would someday come back to haunt him. / Vaughn was so cavalier that most others felt he was looking down his nose at them. / Part of the outfit of a French cavalier was a wide-brimmed felt hat with an ostrich plume sticking out. / Cavaliers made a point of helping damsels in distress. /[-ly adv.] >> cavalier  (KAV uh LEAR) adj. 1. casual or unconcerned attitude; an indifference to matters of concern or importance; 2. arrogant and haughty —n. 1. a knight or armed horseman; 2. a courteous, gallant gentleman

Melissa and Gino invited 200 people to celebrate their wedding./ Let’s celebrate Arbor Day with a tree-planting ceremony./ We join with Timmy to celebrate Lassie’s heroics yet again./ Get out the noisemakers and funny hats so that we can celebrate the ring- ing in of the New Year. /[-d celebrating celebration n.] [Syn. commemorate observe] >> celebrate  (SEL eb RAYT) vt. 1. to perform some kind of public and formal ritual; 2. to mark an anniversary, a holiday, etc. with ceremony or festiveness; 3. to praise or honor publicly; 4. to perform cheerful activity to mark an occasion

Comic George Carlin made a living from parodying the TV censor with his routine about seven words you can’t say on TV./ During the Second World War people at home received mail from their relatives in the armed forces that had whole paragraphs blacked out by the censors./ In the Soviet Union every newspaper article was censored. /[-ed -ing -ship n.] >> censor  (SEN soer) n. 1. an official with the power to examine books, movies, TV programs, etc. and to remove anything objectionable; 2. an official in times of war who reads mail, news articles, etc. and removes anything he/she thinks might help the enemy —vt. to put a book, writer, etc. to such treatment as just described

A century passed between the beginnings of the American Civil War and our involvement in Vietnam./ Alexander the Great lived in the fourth century B.C./ Roman legions were divided into centuries each of which consisted of 100 men. >> century  (SEN che ree) n. 1. any span of 100 years; 2. a specific period of 100 years dating from the beginning of the Christian (or Common) Era; 3. a series, group, or subdivision of 100

A cerebral hemorrhage is not a pleasant prospect./ The cerebral cortex is where higher brain functions occur./ Tchaikovsky’s music is more emotional than cerebral. >> cerebral  (SIR ib ril or sir EEB ril) adj. 1. concerning the brain or the cerebrum; 2. appealing to the intellect—not the emotions; intellectual

We’ll get a certain trade-in allowance for the old car./ The sun is certain to rise tomorrow./ It is certain that Gary committed the robbery./ You can be certain of a fair hearing./ A certain number of people will believe anything. /[-ty n.] [Syn. sure] >> certain  (SOER tin) adj. 1. fixed, settled, or specific; 2. certain to occur; inevitable; 3. undoubtable; unquestionable; 4. reliable; dependable; 5. an amount, but not very much

The sentry gave the challenge to the incoming patrol./ It’s a challenge to explain Tom’s behaving so strangely./ The Count answered the Marquis’ challenge to a duel./ Getting the dog to behave properly is quite a challenge./ The committee member challenged the visitor’s right to take part in the group’s vote./ I was challenged to show my ticket at the theater door. /[-d challenging] >> challenge  (CHA linj) n. 1. a demand for identification; 2. questioning; a demand for proof or for an explanation; 3. a dare or an urge to participate; 4. any job that requires special effort; 5. a questioning of a vote or one’s right to vote —vt. to do any of the preceding things

The cabinetmaker marked the drawer bottom with his own character to identify it as having been made by him./ Omega is the final character of the Greek alphabet./ Arabic characters are used in our system of numerals./ Philip’s handwriting has a great deal of character./ A pyramid with an eye is a character on the Great Seal of the United States of America./ It is the character of the scorpion to sting indiscriminately./ I recommend Edith as having character of the highest sort./ Sheep have the character of flocking together./ The character of the presidency is one of great power./ Don’t always take the advice of an actor just because the character he plays is that of a doctor on TV. /[Syn. disposition quality] >> character  (KAR ik tir) n. 1. a special mark; 2. any symbol or letter that’s used in writing and printing; 3. style of printing or handwriting; 4. a magical symbol or mystic emblem; a code or cipher; 5. a distinctive quality or trait; an attribute; a characteristic; 6. essential quality; nature; 7. the personality of an individual or group; 8. status; position; 9. a part in a play, movie, etc.

Joan of Arc’s charisma is what made her soldiers follow her leadership. / A rock star or a movie star who has charisma attracts a large band of devotees. /[-tic adj. -tically adv.] >> charisma  (kuh RIZ muh) n. a special quality or charm that encourages loyalty or devotion

Tania was chary of hurting anyone’s feelings. / The cafeteria attendant was chary of the size of the portions she meted out. /[charily adv.] [Syn. wary] >> chary  (CHAI ree) adj. 1. careful; cautious; 2. not giving freely; sparing

Chemistry studies how chemicals interact or fail to interact. / A chemical reaction always occurs when an acid and a base are mixed together with the resulting compounds being a salt and water. / It is essential that people avoid developing dependencies on chemicals. / If a chemical is an acid its formula always contains an H (for hydrogen). /[-ly adv.] >> chemical  (KEM ik uhl) adj. 1. of or having something to do with chemistry; 2. made by or used by chemistry —n. 1. involving the use of alcohol and/or drugs; 2. any of the chemical elements or a compound thereof

It was Shirley’s churlish nature that kept everyone at a distance from her. / Evan was churlish as if he’d been brought up in a barn. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. boorish] >> churlish  (CHOER lish) adj. 1. boorish; surly or mean; 2. peasantlike; ill man- nered; ill bred

It is a good idea to be circumspect in selecting stocks to invest one’s money in. / Being circumspect before walking behind a horse is always a worthwhile undertaking. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. careful] >> circumspect  (SIR kuhm SPEKT) adj. cautious; careful to consider all aspects before judging, acting, or deciding

When there is thunder the presence of lightning is an inescapable circumstance./ A circumstance for buying cotton candy is a circus visit./ Charles was in difficult financial circumstances. >> circumstance  (SIR kuhm STAENS) n. 1. a fact or event that goes with another, as an essential factor or incidentally; 2. any situation; event; 3. conditions affecting a person

Very frequently people try to circumvent the need to pay sales tax by buying online. / Some landlords incorrectly think that if they lock tenants out they can circumvent the eviction process. /[-ed -ing] >> circumvent  (SIR kuhm VENT) vt. 1. to go around; 2. to get the better of by cleverness or craftiness

Henry was cited to appear in traffic court next Wednesday./ Mary always cites some classical composer as the inspiration for her musi- cal compositions./ Brown v. Board of Education is a case lawyers often cite when arguing for equal educational opportunities in court. /[-d citing citation n.] >> cite  (SYT) vt. 1 to demand an appearance before a court; 2. to quote (a passage, book, writer, speech, etc.); 3. to refer to or bring up (as precedent)

All citizens are entitled to certain civil rights./ Civil war is an oxymoron like military intelligence./ Civil people should develop an appreciation for the arts./ It is important to be civil rather than rude to one another. >> civil  (SI vil) adj. 1. of a citizen or citizens; 2. of a community of citizens or their interactions; 3. cultured; 4. courteous or polite

The chef passed the chicken soup through a strainer to clarify the broth./ Jane clarified the point she was trying to get across./ Often a map will serve to clarify the directions to a place. /[clarifies clarified -ing clarification* n.] >> clarifiy  (KLA ri fy) vi., vt. 1. to make or become clear (especially liquids); 2. to make or become easier to comprehend

The Rolex watch is classical and worth every thousand./ The Jaguar XJ6 has absolutely classical (or classic) lines./ Shakespeare’s tragedies followed those of Sophocles and Euripides as being both classical and timeless./ Until the 1950s the college graduates of modern Europe and those from Ivy League colleges were given classical educations with a knowledge of Latin being essential./ Mozart Haydn and Beethoven are generally considered the greatest classi- cal composers although Beethoven bridges the Classical and Romantic eras. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] >> classical  (KLAS i kl) adj. 1. of the highest class; excellent; 2. having a balanced and simple style; restrained; the name of an era bestowed by historians, such as the Classical Era in music history, which preceded the Romantic Era; 3. typical of or based on the literary works of ancient Greece and Rome; 4. well versed in Greek and Roman literature and culture; 5. music in the European style, as distinct from folk, popular, or jazz

The cheerleaders kept together in their own clique./ The Obscure Poets Society was a self-important highbrow clique that gener- ally looked down on others. /[-ish or cliquish adj. cliquishly adv. cliquishness n.] [Syn. coterie] >> clique  (KLEEK or KLIK) n. a small, exclusive circle of people; snobbish or narrow coterie (Common interest and snobbery are implied.)

The romance novel was cloying in its sentimentality./ The date can have a cloying sweetness that causes many people to avoid eating that fruit unless it is only one of several ingredients as in date-nut bread. /[-ly adv. (to) cloy vt.] >> cloying  (KLOY ing) adj. 1. displeasing or distasteful due to excess; 2. excessively sweet, sentimental, etc.

Thrombin is an element in the blood that acts as a coagulant changing fibrinogen into fibrin—the stuff clots are made of. / The coagulants that turn milk into cheese are bacteria. / Whipping is the coagulant that turns cream into butter. >> coagulant  (koh AG yoo lint) n. something that causes a liquid to coagulate or become solid; solidifier (used especially when referring to blood)

Milk coagulates to form cheese. / Blood coagulates to form a scab protecting the body from invasion by bacteria. / Cream when churned enough coagulates to form butter. /[-d coagulating] >> coagulate  (koh AG yoo layt) vi. to change from a liquid to a semisolid mass; clot; curdle

Babies must be coddled while they’re at the helpless stage. / My parents used to enjoy coddled eggs which I could never understand because I found them runny and gross. /[-d coddling] [Syn. pamper] >> coddle  (KAH dil) vt. 1. to treat tenderly; pamper; 2. to cook eggs in the shell gently in not-quite-boiling water for two to three minutes

The U.S. armed forces were used to coerce Iraq to leave Kuwait. / The Internal Revenue Service is expert at coercing delinquent taxpayers to part with their funds. / Police frequently find it necessary to coerce prisoners to come along with them. /[-d coercing] [Syn. force] >> coerce  (koh ERS) vt. 1. to persuade by use of force; 2. to persuade by use of threats, legal or otherwise; 3. to constrain by use or threat of force

Ralph gave Alice several cogent reasons they should vacation at a mountain resort rather than at the beach. / Jackie’s arguments for using regular-grade gasoline rather than high test were particularly cogent to the tune of 42 cents per gallon. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. valid] >> cogent  (KOH jint) adj. compelling; convincing and to the point (said of verbal means as distinguished from physical)

One’s cognitive skills tend to diminish somewhat with the onset of old age. / In judging a baking contest one relies less on one’s cognitive faculties and more on one’s senses. /[-ly adv.] >> cognitive  (KAHG ni tiv) adj. 1. having to do with knowing in the broadest sense; 2. by means of perception, judgment, and conception

June had no cognizance of the fact that Frank was bringing a guest home to dinner. / Cognizance of the habits of the sperm whale has all been acquired by surveillance. / Before it jumped into his lap Omar had had no cognizance of the cat’s being present in the room. >> cognizance  (KAHG ni zins) n. 1. awareness of something; 2. knowledge perceiv- able by observation; 3. noticing or perception of

Grapes appear to cohere until you notice the tiny stems./ Freedoms of religion and press seem to logically cohere./ The U.S. and U.K. cohered from 1941 through 1945 in their fight against the Nazis. /[-d cohering -nt adj. -nce cohesion cohesiveness n.] [Syn. stick] >> cohere  (koh HEER) vi. 1. to stick together; 2. to be connected naturally or logi- cally, as by some common idea or principle; 3. to become or stay united in action; be in accord

Matt and Louise were colleagues at the electric company./ Dr. Lang and Dr. Griffith were colleagues at Lehigh Hospital. /[Syn. associate] >> colleague  (KAH leeg) n. a fellow worker; one in the same profession

Libby collects bottle caps as a hobby./ The news boy collects fees weekly from his patrons./ You need to collect your wits before reading another word./ June collects aluminum cans to turn in for the 10￠ deposit./ The crowd collected outside the ballpark./ When you get there call collect. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. gather] >> collect  (kuh LEKT) vt. 1. to bring together; assemble; 2. to call for and receive (for example, taxes); 3. to regain control (of oneself); 4. to pick up; go get —vi. to gather; assemble —adj., adv. to be payed for by the recipient

A weekly collection of garbage is essential for urban living./ Laurie has quite an extensive stamp collection./ Ian has some collection of dirty clothes in his room./ After the religious service a collection plate was passed. >> collection  (kuh LEK shin) n. 1. the act or process of accumulating; 2. the things collected; 3. a pile; an accumulation; 4. money collected, as by a fund-raiser

The tax collector has very few friends in town./ When told that everyone should collect something Allan replied that he is a collector of dust. >> collector  (kuh LEK toer) n. a person or thing that accumulates (for example, a person whose job is to collect overdue bills, taxes, etc. or a person whose hobby is collecting stamps, books, etc.)

It ain’t necessarily so is all right to use as a colloquial expression but it would be improper in formal speech or writing./ Personally hearing a person say “How are youse today?” (meaning the two of you) hurts my ears yet the phrase is in widespread colloquial use. /[-ly adv.] >> colloquial  (kuh LOH kwee il) adj. 1. normal conversational style; 2. used to describe words, phrases, etc. that are used in everyday speech; informal

The court found that there was collusion between Daniel and Joy to defraud the royal family./ Collusion to commit robbery is a felony punishable by jail. /[collusive adj. collusively adv.] >> collusion  (kuh LOO zhin) n. a secret agreement for illegal or fraudulent pur- pose; conspiracy

John Cleese had a comedic walk in Monty Python’s Ministry of Silly Walks routine./ Mike Meyers’ comedic portrayals appeal to some people more than they do to others. /[-ally adv.] >> comedic  (kuh MEE dik) adj. of or having to do with comedy; humorous

The commencement of the show will be at 8 P.M./ Lafayette High School’s commencement will be held at the field house./ Yale’s commencement is often on a Thursday. >> commencement  (kuh MENS mint) n. 1. the beginning or start; the time of same; 2. the school or college ceremonies at which degrees or diplomas are award- ed; 3. the day upon which this takes place

George just had to make a comment on Paul’s theories./ When Sue remarked that it was hot in the room Pam felt it necessary to comment in her support./ With gossips it’s just one comment after another./ Some people find it necessary to comment on practically anything and everything. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. remark] >> comment  (KOM ent) n. 1. a note that explains, criticizes, or illustrates some- thing written or said; annotation; 2. a remark or observation made to express criti- cism or opinion; 3. talk; chatter; gossip —vi. to comment on; to make remarks

The ship was engaged in international commercial trade./ Beth’s neighborhood was zoned for commercial use so she had no recourse when the grocery opened next door./ The warehouse club sells mayonnaise in gallon jars suitable for commercial use but kind of large for use at home./ Some of the most entertaining television these days is to be found in soft- drink commercials. >> commercial  (kuh MER shil) adj. 1. of or connected to trade; 2. of or having to do with stores, office buildings, etc.; 3. of a lower grade or for use in large amounts in industry —n. paid radio or TV advertisement

A burial service accompanied the commitment of the naval officer’s body to the ocean depths./ It’ll take a court order to affect the commitment of this book’s author to the booby hatch. / The Heart Association is looking for a commitment to contribute and for you to encourage your neighbors to do so too./ The U.S. has a commitment to defend the Americas./ Getting a mortgage is a long-term financial commitment. >> commitment  (kuh MIT mint) n. 1. a delivering for safekeeping; 2. official internment of a person to a prison or a mental institution; 3. a promise to do something; 4. dedication to a long-term involvement; 5. a financial liability

There was good communication among the jury members./ The communication received from the spy satellite held obsolete plans for a Spacely sprocket./ Satellites permit almost instant communication by electronic signals any- where on earth./ Vera has less-than-admirable communication skills./ The armed forces communication system is constantly being upgraded with the latest bells and whistles. >> communication  (kuhm YOO ni KAY shuhn) n. 1. a giving or exchanging of information, messages, etc.; 2. the information so exchanged; 3. a medium for exchanging information; 4. the art of expressing ideas; 5. the science of transmit- ting information

Height is one comparative way to relate buildings./ Comparative linguistics notes similarities and differences between lan- guages both in grammar and vocabulary./ The comparative degree in grammer goes from tall to taller as opposed to the superlative which is tallest./ Bigger smaller newer and older are all comparatives. /[-ly adv.] >> comparative  (kuhm PA ruh tiv) adj. 1. estimated by relating it to something else; relative; 2. comparing one thing to another —n. 1. in grammar, the compara- tive degree (words ending in er); 2. a word or form in this degree

Apples and watermelons are two fruits with seeds but any further compari- son might prove fruitless./ A comparison of lemons and limes might be made with respect to their col- ors tartness and climatic habitats. >> comparison  (kuhm PAR is uhn) n. 1. estimation of similarities and differences; 2. sufficiently similar in likeness to make a relating of one to the other possible

Tina had great compassion for the families of the victims of the earthquake./ Rosita was driven by her compassion for the homeless to volunteer twice weekly at the local shelter. /[-ate adj. -ately adv.] [Syn. pity] >> compassion  (kuhm PA shin) n. sorrow for the suffering or problems of another or others, often accompanied by an urge to help; deep sympathy; pity

Eve had to compel Adam to try her applesauce./ Iraq used its army to compel Kuwait to share its oil income. /[-led -ling -lable adj. -ler n.] [Syn. force] >> compel  (kuhm PEL) vt. 1. to force; constrain; 2. to get or cause by force

Vi’s M.A. made her quite competent academically to apply for the teaching position./ One doesn’t need to be an electrician to have competent credentials to change a lightbulb./ The judge ruled Jack competent to stand trial for murder. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. able] >> competent  (KOM pit int) adj. 1. well qualified; capable; fit (sometimes used with to); 2. sufficient; adequate; 3. permissible or properly belonging

Jimmy Connors and Andre Agassi were often competition for one another on the tennis courts./ The 100-meter hurdles competition will start at 2 P.M./ To paticipate in the competition an application form must be filed and an entry fee must be paid. / The New York Yankees have been the Boston Red Sox’s fiercest competition over the years for the AL crown./ Lucy was always Desi’s competition when it came to getting attention from an audience. >> competition  (kom pet ISH in) n. 1. the act of competing; rivalry; 2. a contest or match; 3. official participation in an organized sport; 4. the opposition in a con- test; 5. the person or persons against whom one competes

When it comes to job opportunities quarterback is the most highly com- petitive field./ Jerri was always competitive with her twin sister Merri./ The Pacers basketball team’s eight-foot-tall center gave them a competitive edge over all their likely opponents. /[-ness n. -ly adv.] >> competitive  (kuhm PET it iv) adj. 1. of, involving, or based on competing; 2. having a chance in a competition

Frank’s mom loves hearing Frank complain how his toe hurts where he stubbed it/ just ask her./ Barb’s neighbors often complain about her loud stereo./ Betty complained to the police that Archie had damaged her front lawn when he and Reggie trespassed on it. /[-ed -ing -er -t n.] >> complain  (kuhm PLAYN) vi. 1. to announce or express pain, displeasure, etc.; 2. to find fault; state annoyance; 3. to make an accusation; make formal objection; bring charges

Butter and jam complement the flavor of a piece of toasted bread. / Georgia had a full complement of 10 fingers and 10 toes. / For a proper handshake another person’s right hand is the perfect comple- ment to one’s own. /[Syn. completer] >> complement  (KAHMP li mint) n. 1. that which completes or makes perfect; 2. the full amount; 3. either of two parts that complete each other

A complex sentence has at least two clauses one of which is independent and one or more of which is subordinate./ A camera is too complex an instrument to repair yourself./ The interrelationship of characters in a Shakespearean play is usually quite complex./ The vitamin-B complex consists of at least 12 parts./ A housing complex might contain a few storefronts for the convenience of the tenants./ The fact that April suffered from an inferiority complex did not necessarily mean that she was not inferior. /[-ity adv.] >> complex  (kuhm PLEKS for adj., KOM pleks for n.) adj. 1. made up of two or more related parts; 2. not simple; 3. involved or complicated —n. 1. a collection of interrelated ideas, activities, etc. that form a single whole; 2. a group of units, such as buildings or roads, that together form a single whole; 3. an unconscious psycho- logical condition related to a particular thing or activity

The engine is just one component of a complete automobile albeit a very important one. / Stereo component systems are generally of higher quality than those that come all in one box. / Egg whites are a major component of lemon meringue pie. /[Syn. element] >> component  (kuhm POH nint) n. 1. a basic part of something; 2. any part of a high-fidelity system (speaker, tuner, amplifier, and so on); 3. an element or ingredient

Though all about him were rife with excitement or dismay Winston Churchill seldom lost his composure./ Composure is one of the most important conditions to retain to behave rationally in an emergency. /[Syn. equanimity] >> composure  (kum POH zhur) n. a calmness of mind or manner; tranquillity; self-possession; one’s togetherness

A comprehensive survey should test the mood of the voters on many differ- ent issues./ Hailee has a comprehensive mind which allows her to grasp ideas in their entirety./ Carrying comprehensive insurance that will cover scratches and malicious mischief on your car is rarely recommended for older vehicles. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> comprehensive  (KOM pri HEN siv) adj. 1. dealing with all or many of the rele- vant details; inclusive; 2. able to understand fully; 3. a type of property insurance covering many risks in the same policy

The Missouri Compromise permitted Missouri to enter the Union as a slave state and Maine to enter as a free state./ A compromise is the result of two sides coming together to close the dis- tance between them./ Joe was on the extreme right Debbie was on the extreme left and Mike compromised midway between them./ Being seen with you might cause my reputation to be compromised./ If we all compromise we’ll be out of here a lot sooner./ Do you expect me to compromise my principles just to get us out of here in a shorter time? /[-d compromising] >> compromise  (KOM pri MYZ) n. 1. a settlement in which each side gives up something to reach a middle ground; 2. an adjustment of opposing principles, sys- tems, etc. by modifying some aspects of each; the result of such an adjustment; 3. something midway between two others in quality, position, etc.; 4. a baring of one’s reputation to danger, suspicion, or disrepute —vt. 1. to settle or adjust by con- cessions on both sides; 2. to lay open to danger, suspicion, or disrepute; 3. to weak- en one’s principles, ideals, etc. to expedite things

Jane felt a compulsion to seek out chocolate ice cream despite the rather late hour./ The subpoena was compulsion enough for Bill to show up./ The news junkie watched one news broadcast after another unable to shake the compulsion to stay informed. /[compulsive compulsory adj. compulsorily adv.] >> compulsion  (kuhm PUHL shin) n. 1. being forced; being coerced; constraint; 2. something that forces; 3. an irresistible irrational impulse to perform an act

Just a century ago travel outside of earth’s atmosphere was conceivable only to science-fiction writers. / Our reliance on electricity has reached the point where life without it is barely conceivable. /[conceivably adv.] [Syn. imaginable] >> conceivable  (kuhn SEE vib il) adj. that can be imagined, thought of, or understood

Concentrate your thoughts on improving your vocabulary. / Concentrate the orange juice for shipping purposes. / Sometimes it is hard to concentrate on a task. / The intensity of light concentrates as you get nearer to the source. / Grape juice can be made from grape concentrate. /[-d concentrating] >> concentrate  (KAHN sin TRAYT) vt. 1. to collect and focus; 2. to increase in strength or density —vi. same meanings as 1 and 2 —n. a liquid that has been made denser by removing some of its solvent

After you’ve graduated from school you’ll want to turn your full concentra- tion to landing a job. / The concentration of orange juice in a frozen can is four times that of the juice we drink. >> concentration  (KAHN sin TRAY shin) n. 1. fixed attention on some task; 2. the density of something

The automaker had a concept of what the car of the future should look like and be able to do./ Given the job to create a perfect building for milking cows the architect sketched out a few concepts./ The décor was in keeping with the concept of a Vietnamese theme restau- rant and lounge. /[Syn. idea] >> concept  (KON sept) n. 1. an idea or thought, especially one of an abstract nature; 2. an original idea, design, or concept; 3. a central unifying idea or theme

The Iliad concerns a war between Greece and Troy./ A good teacher tries to concern parents with their children’s day-to-day school experiences./ It concerns Lois that she has not yet heard from her tax preparation person./ Mark’s well-being is a concern of Diane’s./ Sandy has a financial concern in the company’s health./ The stock market’s fall was a great concern of those nearing retirement. /[-ed -ing/ also -ed adj. and -ing prep.] [Syn. care] >> concern  (kuhn SOERN) vt. 1. to be about or to involve; 2. to draw in; engage or involve; 3. to cause to feel uneasy or anxious —n. 1. a matter of interest or impor- tance to one; 2. interest in or regard for a person or thing; 3. relation; reference; 4. worry; anxiety

Pete and Andy were careful to paddle the canoe in concert./ Getting the car out of the snow took a concerted effort./ Five singing groups performed at the April concert. /[-ed adj. (in) concert] >> concert  (KON soert) n. 1. mutual agreement; concord; togetherness of action; 2. a music program in which a number of musicians perform together

When Jack saw how angry the fall had made Jill he made a conciliatory attempt to calm her. / South Korea has made several conciliatory moves toward its neighbor to the north. /[conciliatorily adv.] [Syn. pacifying] >> conciliatory  (kuhn SIL ee uh TAW ree) adj. 1. trying to soothe anger; 2. gaining by friendly acts; making friendly

The coda is the conclusion of many musical pieces and is used to reinforce the main idea./ After thinking it through thoroughly the conclusion that the butler had done it was unavoidable./ Scotland Yard’s investigator reached the same conclusion./ The “Waltz of the Flowers” is the conclusion to Tchaikowsky’s The Nutcracker Suite. >> conclusion  (kuhn KLOO zhn) n. 1. the end or final part; 2. the result of the reasoning process; judgment; decision; an opinion reached after investigating; the last in a chain of events

The phases of the moon and the changes in the oceans’ tides have been known to concur. / Two persons must concur in the direction of their motion to operate a two- handled tree saw. / For the Supreme Court to come to a decision five justices must concur. /[-red -ring] [Syn. consent] >> concur  (kuhn KOER) vi. 1. to occur at the same time; coincide; 2. to act together; 3. to agree; to be in accord

We all condemn the actions of the 9/11 hijackers./ Let us condemn the serial killer to a life in jail./ The city condemned five private homes to make room for the football stadi- um’s parking lot./ The run-down tenement will be condemned and demolished. /[-ed -ing -er n.] [Syn. criticize] >> condemn  (kuhn DEM) vt. 1. to blame; strongly disapprove of; censure; 2. to declare guilty of wrongdoing; to doom; pronounce penalty on; 3. to claim private property for public use by using the power of eminent domain; expropriate; 4. to declare unfit for service

The judge may condescend to explain his decision to the convicted felon even though the law does not require it./ Our cat condescends to hang out with the dog from time to time even though she makes it abundantly clear that she occupies a much higher social level than he does./ The elite castes in traditional India would not condescend to speak with an untouchable. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. stoop] >> condescend  (KON dis END) vi. 1. to lower oneself to the level of the person one is dealing with; to graciously and willing do something regarded as beneath one’s dignity; deign; 2. to deal with others in a proud or haughty way

Being paid in advance is a condition of my not singing at charity concerts/ if you heard me sing you’d know why./ Fertile soil is one condition of good crop growth./ Lack of sun is a condition preventing my having a nice lawn./ Alex’s condition has improved since he saw the doctor./ The vice president’s condition keeps him in close touch with the pulse of the Senate. / Sarah’s mom conditioned her going to the party on her being home by 10 P.M. at the latest./ Ulie’s outer garb is conditioned on the weather report./ After shampooing it helps to condition one’s hair. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. state] >> condition  (kuhn DISH uhn) n. 1. anything that’s a requirement before perform- ing or doing something else; 2. any prerequisite to the happening of another thing, event, etc.; 3. something that modifies or restricts the nature, existence, or occur- rence of something else; 4. state of being; health; 5. social position; rank; station -vt. 1. to set as a requirement; to stipulate; 2. to impose rules on; 3. to affect, mod- ify, or influence; 4. to bring to a desired state

It is not easy to condone one’s cheating on an examination in mathematics class. / Hunting members of endangered species as trophies is a practice that cannot be condoned. /[-d condoning] >> condone  (kuhn DOHN) vt. to forgive, pardon, or overlook (a misdeed)

Hands-on conduct is how Rocio handles her investments./ Richard has never been sent to the office for bad conduct./ The tour guide conducts a new group every half hour./ While Leonard Bernstien was music director of the New York Philharmonic he frequently conducted his own works./ Children should conduct themselves properly in public./ Aluminum conducts heat better than steel but not as well as copper. /[-ed -ing -ible adj. -ibility adv.] >> conduct  (KON duhct for n., kuhn DUHCT for vt.) n. 1. the process or way of managing or directing; 2. how one acts; behavior —vt. 1. to show the way to; to lead; to guide; to escort; 2. to manage, control, or direct; 3. to behave; 4. to be able to transmit, convey, or carry

We should confirm our reservations to make sure they hold our spaces on tomorrow morning’s flight./ The appointment of a Supreme Court justice must be confirmed by a two- thirds vote of the Senate to be valid./ Ruth contacted the manufacturer to confirm that the model on sale was the latest one./ Ray’s parents arranged for him to be confirmed. /[-ed -ing -ation n.] [Syn. verify validate] >> confirm  (kuhn FIRM) vt. 1. to strengthen; establish; encourage; 2. to make valid by formal approval; to ratify; 3. to prove truth, validity, or authenticity of; 4. to cause to go through the religious ceremony of confirmation

In some states automobiles driven while under the influence of an intoxi- cant are confiscated./ A counterfeit bill is always confiscated by the bank teller who spots it on authority of the Treasury Department./ Vera sued the city trying to recover her confiscated car./ Bill hadn’t yet delivered his confiscated handgun. /[confiscated confiscating confiscator confiscation n.] >> confiscate  (KON fis kayt) vt. 1. to seize (private property) for the public treas- ury, usually as a penalty; 2. to seize by or as by authority; appropriate —adj. 1. taken away; 2. having property seized

There is a tendency in some corners to conflate all drug use into a single dreadful statistic./ Ralph’s film conflates the the past and present through skillful use of flashbacks. >> conflate  (kuhnf LAYT) vt. to combine or mix (for example, two different read- ings into a single text); to bring together; to fuse; to join or meld

Sometimes Fran’s emotions conflict with her brain her heart pulling one way and her head pulling the other./ The Hundred Years’ War was a very lengthy conflict./ Todd’s sweet tooth is in a conflict with his need to diet./ Emotional conflict can often result from a desire to do two or more things at the same time. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. fight struggle] >> conflict  (kuhn FLIKT for vi., KON flikt for n.) vi. to be contradictory; be in opposi- tion; clash —n. 1. a fight or struggle, especially a lengthy one; war; 2. sharp disagree- ment or opposition; clash; 3. emotional disturbance resulting from a clash of impulses

The boxers first confronted each other over a couple of Philadelphia cheese- steak sandwiches./ Two fencers confront each other with staple guns drawn./ Eric learned to confront his fear of pussycats by getting his very own kitten. /[-ed -ing -ation n. -ational adj.] >> confront  (kon FRUHNT) vt. 1. to stand or meet face-to-face; 2. to face or oppose boldly or defiantly; 3. bring face-to-face with

To confuse Gino Jim walked backward with his arms extended in front of him./ Anna confused real events with imaginary ones./ Charlie confused a Chevrolet with an Oldsmobile. /[-d confusing confusion n.] [Syn. puzzle] >> confuse  (kuhn FYOOZ) vt. 1. to mix up; put in disorder; 2. to mix up mentally; perplex; bewilder; 3. to fail to distinguish between; err in identifying

Congruous figures are exactly the same shape and size./ When appearing in public a member of Congress is expected to demon- strate congruous behavior at all times. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> congruous  (KON groo uhs) adj. 1. congruent; 2. fitting; suitable; appropriate

A connection is made between two pipes by means of some type of coupling./ Connection from car engine to radiator is by rubber hose./ You can just sense that Ted and Alice have a connection./ Bill was looking for an MP3 player and he thought his connection with the appliance store worker might help him to get one at a good price./ When Juanita flew from New York to Miami she had to make a connection at Atlanta./ Most electrical connections are made by sticking a plug into a wall outlet. >> connection  (kuhn NEK shuhn) n. 1. a coupling, a joining or unifying; a unifi- cation 2. a means of joining; 3. a relationship; 4. a business associate; 5. the means of changing from one train, bus, etc. en route to somewhere; 6. a circuit in electric- ity; a line of communication between two points in telegraphy, telephony, etc.

Having been out cold Ali gradually regained consciousness./ Stream of consciousness entails saying or writing whatever pops into your head in the order that it does./ Consciousness implies both an awareness of and an inclination to interact with the world around you. >> consciousness  (KON shuhs nes) n. 1. the state of being aware; awareness of one’s own feelings or one’s surroundings; 2. the totality of one’s thoughts, feelings, etc.

There is a consensus among Americans that democracy is a superior form of government to autocracy./ There is a consensus among men that male drivers are superior to female drivers./ Amazingly the exact opposite consensus exists among women and aston- ishingly is supported by statistical data. >> consensus  (kuhn SEN suhs) n. 1. an opinion held by all or most; 2. general agreement of opinion

A consequence of buying a new pen is a handwritten note./ Having the correct time can be a consequence of keeping a fresh battery in your wristwatch./ The consequence of consuming a lot of dairy products as a child will be strong teeth and bones as an adult./ The Emperor Maximillian’s presence in Mexico during the American Civil War was of no consequence in the war’s outcome. /[consequent adj. consequently adv.] [Syn. effect importance] >> consequence  (KON si KWENS) n. 1. a result of an action; outcome; effect; 2. a logical conclusion; 3. the relation of effect to cause; 4. importance

In studying World War I one must consider the alliances that had been formed among the nations of Europe./ Her health is really very good if you consider her age./ We cannot give our security contract to a new provider without considering its effect on our current provider. /[-ed -ing -ation n.] [Syn. contemplate weigh] >> consider  (kuhn SID uhr) vt. 1. to think about; ponder; 2. to keep in mind; take into account; 3. to be thoughtful of others

Water consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom./ Wisdom consists of more than just knowing facts./ Her cultural pursuits consist of watching television. >> consist  (kuhn SIST) vi. 1. to be made up of; 2. to be contained or inherent in; 3. to be characterized by

It was the Mikado’s aim to have the punishment be consistent with the crime. / In raising children it is very important for parents to be consistent in their expectations. /[-ly adv.] >> consistent  (kuhn SIS tint) adj. 1. in accord, agreement, or harmony; compatible; 2. always following the same principles

Cassius and Brutus were the two most famous conspirators in the assassina- tion of Julius Caesar. / Despite what the Warren Commission report says most Americans are con- vinced that there were other conspirators beside Oswald in the assassination of President Kennedy. /[Syn. plotter] >> conspirator  (kuhn SPEE rit er) n. one who conspires; one who acts with others to plan a crime

Some children love to construct buidings with interlocking plastic blocks and so do I./ Suzanne was asked to construct an isosceles triangle congruent to the one in her geometry book./ The plan for the new field house was a construct that had taken two years and hundreds of meetings to achieve./ The big-bang theory is a construct to explain discoveries and observations of astronomers over the last century. >> construct  (kuhn STRUHKT for v., KAHN strukt for n.) vt. 1. to create; 2. to draw a figure to meet specifications —n. 1. something built or put together systematically; 2. a concept or theory devised to unify diverse data

Truck exhaust fumes contaminate the air we all breathe./ Salt contaminates seawater making it undrinkable for us./ The nuclear accident at Chernobyl contaminated much of northern Europe’s pasturelands. /[-d contaminating contaminator n.] [Syn. defile taint corrupt] >> contaminate  (kuhn TAM in AYT) vt. to corrupt, make impure, infect, etc. by adding something that shouldn’t be there; pollute; defile; taint

Jerry contemplated the telephone bill studying the total charges in disbelief./ The coach contemplated whom to put into the starting lineup for the next day’s game./ To improve our property value please contemplate running away from home (please). /[-d contemplating contemplation n.] [Syn. consider] >> contemplate  (KON tem PLAYT) vt. 1. to stare at intently; 2. to think about carefully; study intently; 3. to keep in mind as a possibile plan of action

Paul was very contemplative of the faces of the men in the lineup seeking to pick out the killer. / Olga was contemplative of her geometry facts as she prepared for her final exam. / After joining a contemplative order of monks Tom became known as Brother Jerome. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. pensive] >> contemplative  (kuhn TEM pli tiv) adj. 1. inclined to look at intently; inclined to gaze at; 2. tending to study closely 3. being involved in a meditative religious order

The first Super Bowl was contemporary with the Dodgers and Giants moving from New York to California./ Willis is Francesco’s contemporary both of them having been born about six years ago./ Michael Schelle’s compositions are exemplary of contemporary serious music./ Composer Franz Joseph Haydn was a contemporary of George Washington but outlived him by 10 years. /[contemporaneous adj.] >> contemporary  (kuhn TEM poer ery) adj. 1. living or occurring in the same time frame; 2. around the same age; 3. from recent times; modern —n. a person who lived at the same time as another/others; the same age as another/others

Ramses II was contemptuous of Moses’ attempt to free his people (at least in the Charlton Heston version of The Ten Commandments)./ Marie Antoinette was contemptuous of the French peasants’ being unable to afford bread when she remarked “. . . then let them eat cake.” /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> contemptuous  (kuhn TEMP choo uhs) adj. full of scorn; full of contempt; disdainful

Defense attorneys tend to be contentious which is what their clients are paying them for. / As election day approaches politicians’ behavior grows more and more contentious. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. belligerent] >> contentious  (kuhn TEN shis) adj. 1. always ready for an argument; quarrel- some; 2. likely to provoke a disagreement; provoking controversy

Dinner having been finished Gerald felt total contentment./ Her life being one of complete contentment Susan had no desire for any- thing she did not already have. >> contentment  (kuhn TENT mint) n. a feeling of being satisfied; a feeling of well-being

Quoting her out of context one might believe that Margaret had found a dress to be particularly lovely while what she had actually said was “I don’t find that dress to be particularly lovely.”/ To appreciate the significance of the latest explorations of Mars we must look at it in the context of our exploration of the entire solar system. /[-ual adj. -ually adv.] >> context  (KON tekst) n. 1. the spoken or written information immediately around a certain word or passage that helps to determine its meaning; 2. the entire- ty of the situation in which an event occurs

I just made a contract with a flooring company to replace that seedy look- ing living-room floor./ Wedding contracts are really obsolete in the twenty-first century./ Keep a copy of the contract in your desk or filing cabinet./ Lynn’s going to contract for new kitchen cabinets./ Olga seems to have contracted a nasty case of the flu./ It would be good to contract the size of your debt./ Regulations have contracted the number of people allowed to be in airline waiting rooms. /[Syn. shrink deflate reduce] >> contract  (KON trakt for n. and sometimes v., kuhn TRAKT for most v.) n. 1. an agreement between two or more parties to do something in exchange for some- thing else; 2. a formal agreement of marriage or engagement; 3. the document detailing the terms of the agreement —vt. 1. to arrange or agree to do something; 2. to get or incur (a debt, an illness, etc.); 3. to get or make smaller; to shorten; to nar- row; to shrink; 4. to restrict

According to Tom Jerry’s account of the accident was a contradiction of the facts. / The history of Germany in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries is a series of contradictions. / Racism is a contradiction to the principles expressed in the U.S. Constitution. /[Syn. denial] >> contradiction  (KAHN truh DIK shin) n. 1. in opposition to another position; a denial; 2. a condition in which things are contrary to each other; 3. having ele- ments that appear opposed to one another

Democrats and Republicans have contrary positions on many issues./ Contrary to popular opinion Calbert can dance quite well./ Carla is disagreeing with everything just to be contrary./ George often says one thing and then does the contrary. >> contrary  (KON tre ree) adj. 1. opposed to; against; 2. opposite in nature, order, direction, etc.; completely different; 3. posturing oneself to consistently disagree; perverse —n. the opposite

It’s easy to contrast Hal’s easygoing mannerisms with R. Lee’s drill-sergeant demeanor./ Contrast the appearance of a 10-karat-yellow gold ring to a 14-karat one and the difference is immediately obvious. / Look at a rectangle next to another parallelogram and you will immediate- ly recognize the contrast./ Adjusting the contrast on a television will soften or harden the way objects next to each other are differentiated. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. compare] >> contrast  (KON trast for n., kun TRAST for v.) vt. to compare so as to notice or point out the differences; to make a side-by-side comparison —vi. to show differ- ences when compared —n. 1. a difference, especially a striking one, between two things; 2. showing a striking difference, in color or tone, between different parts of a painting, photograph, or video image

Pat always contributes to cancer-fighting organizations./ James Thurber contributed many humorous cartoons and short stories to various editors during his lifetime./ Many scientists of the Manhattan Project contributed the ideas and calcula- tions that led to Robert Oppenheimer’s becoming the father of the atomic bomb. /[-d contributing contribution n.] >> contribute  (kun TRIB yoot) vt. 1. to give to a common fund or cause; 2. to write and give or sell a piece of writing to a magazine, newspaper, or other publica- tion; 3. to furnish or donate knowledge, ideas, expertise, etc.

Kathy was contrite for having taken Rhoda’s car without first having gotten permission./ Bob’s avoiding meeting Gary’s eyes after having damaged his boat was the result of his feeling contrite. /[-ly adv. contrition n.] [Syn. penitent] >> contrite  (kun TRYT) adj. 1. feeling sorrow; remorse; 2. showing or resulting from repentance; regretting having done wrong

The question of whether or not to build a new parking garage was the most controversial subject on the agenda./ Controversial topics are often the subject of public debate and can polarize opinions. /[-ly adv. controversy n.] >> controversial  (KON truh VER shee uhl) adj. subject to or likely to cause dis- agreement; debatable

It is becoming increasingly difficult to controvert the notion that life might have once existed on Mars./ Magellan’s voyage should have been enough to controvert all notions of the world’s being flat. /[-ed -ing -ible adj. -ibly adv.] [Syn. disprove] >> controvert  (KON truh voert) vt. 1. to argue against; dispute; deny; contradict; 2. to argue about; debate; discuss

>> conundrum  (kuh NUHN drm) n. 1. a riddle in which the answer contains a pun (play on words); 2. any puzzling question or problem

Saying please and thank you is just part of conventional polite manners. / It is conventional to peel a banana before eating it. / Conventional weapons have become so dangerous that the use of nuclear weapons is overkill. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. customary] >> conventional  (kuhn VEN shuh nil) adj. 1. growing out of custom or normal usage; customary; 2. conforming to accepted standards, rather than natural; 3. non-nuclear

The convergence of Donna’s and Flo’s musical interests convinced them that they might make it as a duo./ There is a convergence of two roads into a single road that takes place at the fork. /[convergency n. convergent adj.] >> convergence  (kuhn VOER jins) n. 1. a coming together; 2. the point at which things come together

Ned and Fred had a conversation over coffee discussing where to get their motorcycles serviced./ It was customary at Vanessa’s workplace to discuss plans for the weekend during the water-cooler conversations./ Representatives of Russia and Japan have conversations now and again over Russia’s returning Sakhalin to Japan. /[-al adj. -ally adv.] >> conversation  (KON ver SAY shin) n. 1. the act or a case of talking together; familiar talk; verbal interchange of ideas, opinions, etc.; 2. an informal discussion on an area of common interest by two governments

The van conveyed Gerri’s furniture to her new home./ Kaj asked Al to convey his condolences to Cindy./ Lisa conveyed her displeasure to Michael with a scowl./ The deed conveyed title to the lot from Sally to Harry. /[-ed -ing -able adj.] [Syn. carry] >> convey  (kuhn VAY) vt. 1. to carry from one place to another; transport; 2. to act as a channel or medium for; 3. to make known; 4. to transfer (property) from one person to another

The criminal’s conviction was for shoplifting./ Jill told with conviction of her and Jack’s tumble on the hill./ The mayor expressed belief in his programs for urban renewal with conviction. /[Syn. certainty opinion] >> conviction  (kuhn VIK shin) n. 1. the finding that a person is guilty of a crime; 2. the appearance or reality of being convinced; 3. a strong belief

Most religions have some convivial holiday where celebrating is the rule. / A birthday is usually an occasion for a convivial time. /[-ity n.] [Syn. jovial] >> convivial  (kuhn VIV ee uhl) adj. 1. festive; 2. jovial; fond of having a good time; fond of eating, drinking, and good company

Most hoses are convoluted for storage purposes. / A 20-mile-long convoluted unpaved highway climbs from the foot of Pike’s Peak to its summit. / The series of alliances that led to the outbreak of World War I was very convoluted. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. complicated] >> convoluted  (KAHN vuh LOO tid) adj. 1. coiled or spiraled; 2. very involved; complicated

Some of the chickens have gotten out of the coop./ Because she was grounded Olivia felt like she was in a coop./ Keep the puppies cooped up in your room so that they don’t get into mischief./ Night watchmen need to punch time clocks periodically so that their supervisors know they haven’t been cooping. /[-ed -ing] (slang) to get away as from a jail (as in fly the coop) / Some of the chickens have gotten out of the coop./ Because she was grounded Olivia felt like she was in a coop./ Keep the puppies cooped up in your room so that they don't get into mischief./ Night watchmen need to punch time clocks periodically so that their supervisors know they haven't been cooping. /[-ed -ing] >> coop  (KOOP) n. 1 a small cage, pen, or building for keeping poultry; 2. any place of confinement; (slang) a jail —vt. to confine as in a coop (usually with up) -vi. (slang) to sleep on the job; (slang) to get away, as from a jail (as in fly the coop)

Always take copious notes during college lectures. / Fidel Castro’s speeches are always copious. / Copious information about careers is available in The Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Department of Labor. /[Syn. plentiful profuse] >> copious  (KO pee uhs) adj. 1. abundant; very plentiful; 2. wordy; using language to a great extent; 3. full of information

A corona might grace a king’s head. / The sun’s corona makes a striking display when the sun’s disk is in total eclipse. / The corona of a daffodil is what gives this spring flower its unique shape. >> corona  (kuh ROH nuh) n. 1. a crown or tiara, or something resembling same; 2. a ring of light surrounding a bright object (like the sun’s corona); 3. an extra whorl of flower parts (as the cuplike shape in daffodils) formed between the inner petals and the stamens

One’s salary should correlate with the hours one works. / Sometimes it is difficult to correlate the amount of good someone does in the world with his or her reward. /[-d correlating] >> correlate  (KAW ril AYT) vt. to bring things into a mutual relation with each other; to show the relationship between quantities —adj. closely related

Willa corroborated Kim’s location at the time in question./ A second expert will corroborate the authenticity of the Picasso lithograph. /[-d corroborating corroborative adj. corroboratory adj.] [Syn. confirm] >> corroborate  (kur AHB ir AYT) vt. to back up the correctness of; to confirm; to support; to bolster

Max’s world travels have given him a cosmopolitan outlook./ A taste for Maryland crab cakes has had a cosmopolitan impact drawing orders from all over the world to packers on the Chesapeake Bay./ The typical European capital city dweller is likely to have a more cosmopoli- tan view of things than his or her compatriot farmer. >> cosmopolitan  (KAHZ muh PAH li tn) adj. 1. representative of a wide area of the world; not local or provincial; 2. not bound by local habits, likes, or dislikes; 3. embodying worldly sophistication; fashionable; urbane

Earth was once thought to be the center of the cosmos. / The periodic table contains the cosmos of chemical elements. >> cosmos  (KAHZ mohs) n. 1. the universe seen as an orderly, harmonious whole; 2. any complete and orderly system

The knight couched his lance as he prepared to enter the lists and join the joust. (There’s a sentence you’ll use every day!)/ The general’s warning was couched in barely veiled threats./ The poet’s images were couched in flowery language. /[-ed -ing] >> couch  (KOWCH) vt. 1 to lower or bring down, especially to lower (a spear, lance, etc.) to attack position; 2. to put in certain or specific words or phrases; express

The counterfeit Van Gogh you bought yesterday for $40 is very well done but definitely not rare./ Counterfeit money in circulation is a danger to everyone in the country— including the counterfeiter./ That counterfeit was made to deceive you into believing it was a Tiffany lamp. (Just trying to throw some light on it.)/ It is not a good idea to counterfeit U.S. currency./ One counterfeit most people are familiar with is alligator tears produced when someone pretends to cry. /[-ed -ing counterfeiter n.] [Syn. false artificial] >> counterfeit  (KOWN toer fit) adj. 1. imitation of something real to deceive or defraud; 2. not genuine; sham; feigned —n. a copy made to purposely deceive; forgery; —vt. 1. to make an imitation of (money, pictures, etc.) usually to deceive or defraud; 2. to pretend; feign

Counterpoint melodies can be found in classical and popular musical compositions. / Political-opinion news shows often offer both a point and counterpoint format to put forth both sides of an argument. >> counterpoint  (KOWN tir POYNT) n. 1. a melody played or sung against a different melody; 2. something set up to contrast with or counteract something else

Having the courage of one’s convictions means being brave enough to do what one believes is the right thing./ When faced with a potential attack by the vicious cat Willis the Pug exhibited great courage. /[-ous adj. -ously adv. -ousness n.] >> courage  (KUR ij) n. the attitude of confronting something acknowledged as dif- ficult, painful, or dangerous, rather than running or hiding from it; the quality of bravery; fearlessness; valor

A submarine is a covert weapon by design. / Undercover organizations exist for covert operations. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. secret]  >> covert  (koh VIRT) adj. concealed; disguised; hidden; surrreptitious

Mr. Jones was very covetous of Mr. Smith’s beautiful green lawn before he discovered it was AstroTurf. / Ginger was covetous of Mary Anne’s wavy hair. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. envious greedy] >> covetous  (KUH vit uhs) adj. longing with envy for something belonging to another person

The Green family cowered in the cold waiting for the furnace to be repaired. / Lou Costello’s cowering awaiting Bud Abbott’s angry blows was quite a rou- tine in light of the fact that straight man Abbott was actually Costello’s employee. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. cringe] >> cower  (KOW ir) vt. 1. to huddle up as from fear or cold; 2. to shrink with fear as if avoiding someone’s anger or blows

Lloyd had a craven attitude toward bears. / Some little children are craven about anything with four feet and fur. / Minnie was craven and would not leave her house. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. cowardly] >> craven  (KRAY vin) adj. deathly afraid of; very cowardly —n. a thorough coward

Gino is the creation of his parents Melissa and Gennaro./ One’s creation can be figured from the time of conception./ You are the most important person in all creation./ The creations of DaVinci’s mind were ahead of their time. >> creation  (kree AY shin) n. 1. a coming into existence or a causing to come into existence; 2. the whole universe; all the world; 3. anything created, especially some- thing original created by the imagination; invention, design, etc.

The plan was the result of the general’s creative powers./ The architect made a very creative use of available space./ The music of Mozart often helps to get one’s creative juices flowing./ The deception was accomplished through the firm’s use of creative accounting. >> creative  (kree AY tiv) adj. 1. able to invent or discover; 2. possessing or showing artistic or intellectual inventiveness or imagination; 3. stimulating the imagination and inventiveness; 4. imaginatively deceptive

Muppets are creatures animated by puppeteers./ A creature widely admired for its beauty is the wild horse./ Danielle was predictable being a creature of habit./ Henry is such a sweet creature one can’t help but like him./ Drug addicts are creatures of their addictions. >> creature  (KREE chir) n. 1. anything created, whether animate or inanimate; 2. a living thing; a human being (often used in a patronizing, demeaning, or endearing manner); 3. one totally dominated by or depending on another

The evidence gave Willis’s words credence. / The district attorney did not give credence to the street vendor’s words and wanted to see proof. / Most people do not give credence to UFO stories. >> credence  (KREE dins) n. belief (especially in the testimony or words of others)

Alessandra’s fever declined after the crisis had passed./ The doctor could tell that Dylan was in crisis by the pained expression on his face./ The battle’s crisis came when the enemy turned and fled./ September 11 has played a significant role in more than one crisis. /[crises pl.] [Syn. emergency] >> crisis  (KRY sis) n. 1. the turning point of an illness for better or for worse; 2. a very painful attack of illness; 3. a decisive, crucial time in the course of anything; a turning point; 4. a time of great danger or trouble

Critics help to maintain high standards in many fields./ Checking what trusted movie critics have to say is one way to keep from wasting hard-earned money on fluff./ My mother was a critic finding fault with almost everything I ever did— but she meant well. >> critic  (KRIT ik) n. 1. someone who makes judgments of people or things based on certain standards; 2. such a person whose occupation is to write or broadcast such judgments of books, music, paintings, etc.; 3. a person who indulges in find- ing fault with everything

A teacher’s job is to be critical of his/her students’ work./ A critical study of the factory plans found flaws in them./ The critical community was wowed by your performance./ This military situation calls for immediate critical action./ Following the surgery Miranda was in critical condition. /[-ly adv.] >> critical  (KRI ti kuhl) adj. 1. inclined to find fault; censorious; 2. characterized by close dissection, analysis, and judgment; 3. of critics or criticism; 4. decisive; 5. dangerous or risky

Criticism of the merits of the two teams left no doubt that the Yankees were superior to the 7th Grade Allstars./ A criticism of current investment strategies appeared in yesterday’s Wall Street Journal./ Judge Maxine’s ruling in the dog-bite case drew much criticism. >> criticism  (KRIT I si zim) n. 1. the act of judging; analyzing qualities and com- paring relative worth; 2. a review, comment, article, etc. expressing an evaluation; 3. the act of finding fault; censure; disapproval

Reporters from all media came early to get the opportunity to view and to criticize the new Egyptology exhibit./ Given the ballplayer’s haughty attitude it was not surprising that the local fans took the opportunity to criticize every imperfect move that he made. /[-d criticizing] >> criticize  (KRIT i SYZ) vi., vt. 1. to evaluate as a critic; 2. to judge disapprovingly; to find fault with

TV critics must produce several movie critiques per week. / Literature students are often asked to critique a work of poetry or prose. / Before one critiques anything he or she should have some benchmark by which to judge. /[-d critiquing] [Syn. criticize] >> critique  (kri TEEK) n. a critical analysis of something —vt. to analyze some- thing, such as a work of art, a book, and so on; to criticize

At the first sign of a tick Lois made the crucial decision to take her German shepherd Libby to the vet. /Vince’s appendectomy scar was crucial like the letter x. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. acute] >> crucial  (KROO shil) adj. 1. of extreme importance; decisive; critical; 2. (medicine) in the form of a cross

The sphinx was famous in ancient times for asking cryptic riddles. / The oracle at Delphi gave cryptic prophecies that could be interpreted many different ways. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. obscure] >> cryptic  (KRIP tik) adj. having a hidden or disguised meaning; ambiguous; mysterious

Crystals of carbon are the hardest known natural substance also known as diamonds. / Quartz crystals occur in many different colors with rose quartz being quite common. / Carlotta took her watch to the jeweler for a new crystal. >> crystal  (KRIS til) n. 1. a transparent mineral, especially quartz; 2. such a mineral with a cut or naturally geometric pattern of facets; 3. the transparent covering of the face of a watch; 4. especially clear and briliant glassware

It took a while for the plan to crystallize in Gail’s head. / When water vapor crystallizes it forms six-sided snowflakes. / Crystallized ginger is coated with sugar and is delicious but tangy. /[-d crystallizing crystallization n.] >> crystallize  (KRIS til YZ) vt. 1. to take on a definite form; 2. to form crystals or crystal-like shapes; 3. to coat with sugar

The culpability for a rear-end collision always belongs to the rear car’s driver. / Despite having borrowed his father’s camera without asking permission Irwin denied any culpability. /[Syn. blame] >> culpability  (KUHL puh BIL i tee) n. the responsibility for something’s happen- ing; the blame

The farmer cultivates with a plow before sowing the first seeds. / Bob cultivates flowers every year starting them in pots in early May. / In medieval times monks cultivated trees in the shape of candelabras. / A liking for caviar is a taste one must cultivate as it is not a naturally appealing food. /[-d cultivating] >> cultivate  (KUHL ti VAYT) vt. 1. to prepare soil for crop growing; 2. to grow (plants, animals, and so on) from scratch; 3. to improve by training; 4. to develop (a taste for)

Gracie decided to get tickets to the Philharmonic as part of her concerted effort at cultural self-improvement./ A fondness for drinking ouzo is a Greek cultural thing./ The “jug” is a cultural phenomenon obtained by crossing a pug with a Jack Russell terrier. >> cultural  (KUL choer il) adj. 1. relating to culture (developing, improving, and refining the arts, intellect, interests, tastes, skills, etc.); 2. pertaining to a certain culture; 3. gotten by breeding or cultivation

The curator of documents is in charge of the archives./ Bruce Wayne is Dick Grayson’s curator in an artful way. >> curator  (KYUR ay ter) n. 1. someone in charge of a museum, library, etc.; 2. a guardian or caretaker, as of a minor

Children often show curiosity about where they came from./ Spies tried not to openly show curiosity about factories./ The armadillo is certainly as much of a curiosity as the duck-billed platypus. >> curiosity  (KYUR ee ahs i tee) n. 1. a wanting to learn or know; 2. a wish to learn about things that don’t normally concern one; inquisitiveness; 3. anything curious, strange, rare, or novel

Nobody cared to argue with Mr. Jones because he had a reputation for being a curmudgeon. / Miss Smith was such a curmudgeon that it was no wonder she had remained unwed. >> curmudgeon  (koer MUHJ in) n. an ill-mannered, bad-tempered person; a can- tankerous person

The current weather report is for a pleasant sunny day./ The current rumor has Anne and Fred romantically linked./ To call something cool is no longer current and I’m cool with that./ The river’s current carried the swimmer rapidly along./ When it comes to whom to invite to a party I go with the current of this year’s crop. >> current  (KOER int) adj. 1. taking place now; at the present time; contemporary; 2. passing from person to person; 3. commonly used, known, or accepted —n. 1. a flow of water or air in a certain direction; 2. a general flow or drift; course

Rita took a cursory look at the right front bumper to see whether any damage had been done. / The doctor gave Ben a cursory examination before declaring him fit to return to work. /[cursorily adv.] [Syn. superficial] >> cursory  (KOER sir ee) adj. with little attention to detail; done hastily

The urgent call caused me to curtail my visit to the park./ You must curtail your planned two-hour welcoming speech. /[-ed -ing -ment n.] [Syn. shorten] >> curtail  (KOER tayl) vt. to cut short; reduce; abridge

It is Neal’s custom to always shower before shaving./ Not eating bread is one custom of the Passover holiday./ Not eating during daytime is a custom during Ramadan./ When we impose customs on imports reciprocal taxes usually follow on our exports./ I’m going to buy a custom luxury car next month or as soon as I have a half-million dollars to spare—whichever comes last./ Custom kitchens are Gloria and Jeff’s specialty. >> custom  (KUHS tim) n. 1. a usual practice or accepted way of behaving; habit; 2. a social tradition passed on through generations and upheld by social disaproval; those traditions, collectively; 3. duties and taxes imposed on imports —adj. 1. made, cooked, or done to order; 2. making things to order or dealing in things that are made to order

When Geraldine heard that the car company had donated 30 uniforms to her soccer team she was cynical and she was proven correct when each donated uniform had the car company’s logo sewn onto it./ Max had a cynical view toward all apparent good deeds just like his mother did. /[-ly adv.] >> cynical  (SIN ik uhl) adj. 1. believing that all personal actions are motivated by selfishness; 2. sarcastic, sneering, etc.

Karl greeted the ad for a complete oil change for $10 with considerable cynicism wondering what the catch was./ Cynicism is a lot like skepticism which means that if something sounds too good to be true the odds are that it is. >> cynicism  (SIN i SI zm) n. 1. attitudes or beliefs of a cynical person; 2. a cynical remark, idea, or action

Marla received damage to her neck when she skied off the main slope and into a nearby compost heap./ Claiming that the compost heap should not have been so close to the slope Marla sued the ski lodge for damages./ When he hit the lamppost Jakob damaged his tricycle./ Freddy’s ear was damaged when the newspaper carrier hit it with the Sunday paper. /[-d damaging] [Syn. injure] >> damage  (DAM ij) n. 1. injury or harm, resulting in a loss of soundness or value; 2. (pl.) (law) money claimed by or ordered paid to a person to compensate for injury or loss —vt. to do harm to —vi. to incur harm

The bright headlamps dazed the deer as she momentarily froze in her tracks./ Bumping his head dazed Ian just long enough to permit his prisoner to slip away unnoticed./ After having survived frightful conditions while marooned on the island the newly rescued sailor wandered around in a daze. /[-dly adv.] >> daze  (DAYZ) vt. 1 to stun, stupefy, or bewilder as by a shock or blow to the head; 2. to dazzle —n. a stunned condition

After the dam burst a debacle descended on the farms and villages below./ Napoleon never recovered from his Battle of Waterloo debacle./ The Bible tells of the debacle that resulted from man’s attempt to build the Tower of Babel. >> debacle  (di BAK il) n. 1. a torrent of debris-filled waters; 2. an overwhelming defeat or route; 3. a total, often ludicrous, collapse or failure

Whether the country’s economy does better under Republicans or Democrats is highly debatable./ Whether the next Oscar really will go to the best picture of this year is debatable./ The ownership of Kashmir is debatable because it is claimed by both India and Pakistan. >> debatable  (di BAYT i bl) adj. 1. arguable, having pros and cons on both sides; 2. something that can be questioned or disputed; 3. in dispute, as land claimed by two countries

Lou Gehrig was a great baseball player before developing the debilitating disease ALS which carries his name. / When Dylan was 2 years old he developed a debilitating temper that caused him to bang his head on things. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. weakening] >> debilitating  (di BIL i TAYT ing) adj. weakening; making weak and feeble; ennervating

Some people take it as their life’s work to debunk the schemes of con artists./ The self-proclaimed Great Randi has debunked many so-called mentalists by revealing their deceptions. /[-ed -ing -er n.] >> debunk  (di BUHNK) vt. to expose the false or exaggerated claims, pretensions, glamour, etc. of con artists and charlatans

Flattery is a time-tested device to deceive one into thinking he or she is hotter than is actually the case./ The Flyby Knight Furniture Company tried to deceive people into believing that their $298 sofa was real leather./ False advertising is intended to deceive. /[-d deceiving deceivable adj. deceivingly adv. -r n.] >> deceive  (di SEEV) vt. to cause (a person) to believe what is not true; delude; mislead —vi. to use deceit; lie

A 115-decibel sound level at a rock concert is enough to cause permanent hearing damage while a 130-decibel sound can cause actual physical pain./ Loss of electromagnetic energy as it passes through transmission lines is measured in decibels with a loss of 3 dBs equal to half the strength. >> decibel  (DE si bil) n. 1. (acoustics) a numerical expression of the relative loud- ness of a sound; 2. (electronics, radio) a numerical expression of relative power lev- els of electronic signals (In both cases the decibel level [dB] is related to common logarithms, so small differences in decibels denote large differences in levels.)

The city officials are hoping that by spraying in swamps they will be able to decimate the mosquito population. / Every seven years or so locusts decimate the crops in some farm areas. /[-d decimating] >> decimate  (DE sim ayt) vt. to kill or destroy a large part of the population

The graph of violent crimes per capita in New York during the 1990s declines as it moves from left to right./ As it approaches the loading platform the speed of the roller coaster declines./ The value of the dollar against the Euro declined in 2003./ In dealing with a monkey you need not decline to its level./ Karen declined payment from Barney for having baby-sat. /[-d declining] [Syn. refuse] >> decline  (di KLYN) vt., vi. 1. to slope downward or aside; 2. to sink; wane; near the end; 3. to lessen in force, health, value, etc.; 4. to sink to behavior that is base or immoral; 5. to refuse to accept

Tom behaved in a very decorous manner at the graduation never raising his voice or wiping his mouth on his sleeve./ The ettiquette consultant was hired by Maxine’s mother to supervise the decorous behavior of all the servers at the wedding reception. /[-ly adv.] >> decorous  (di KAW ris) adj. characterized by or showing propriety in behavior, dress, etc.; demonstrating good taste

Defamation of character is an offense that one can sue for in a civil court. / The judge ruled that the false statements Girard made about Ruth consti- tuted defamation. /[Syn. slander] >> defamation  (DEF im AY shin) n. an injuring of someone’s character by making false statements about him or her; slandering; maligning

Though the door is unlocked a German shepherd in the living room is usually adequate to defend a home from theft./ I don’t need to defend my conduct in this case./ The corporation had more than one attorney to defend it against liability actions. /[-ed -ing defense n. adj.] >> defend  (dif END) vt. 1. to protect from attack; keep from harm or danger; 2. to support, maintain, or justify; 3. (law) to oppose (an action); to plead (one’s case)

In the bad old days of the draft college students were able to get deferments until after graduation./ Deferment of jury duty is often obtainable by mothers of preschool children. /[(to) defer vt.] >> deferment  (di FOER mint) n. a postponement; a putting off to a later time

The men defending the Alamo were defiant in the face of Santa Ana’s over- whelmingly superior numbers./ Rosa Parks sparked civil rights awareness by being defiant of the “Blacks ride in the back” convention of the day. /[-ly adv. defiance n.] >> defiant  (di FY int) adj. full of angry resistance; openly and boldly resisting (in spite of opposition)

Mark’s intellectual deficiency leaves him two cans short of a six-pack. / When Violet bought the car she found there was a deficiency in the rear seat belt. /[Syn. shortage] >> deficiency  (di FISH in see) n. the state of lacking in some essential quality or element; incompleteness; shortage; deficit

The U.S. government almost always has a financial deficit./ Those in the high-tech sector of the stock market experienced a severe deficit at the opening of the twenty-first century. >> deficit  (DEF i sit) n. the amount of money less than the necessary amount; hav- ing more liabilities than assets, losses than profits, or expenditures than income

A couple needs to define what will be expected of each before rushing blindly into a marriage./ Mr. Smedley our head of sales will now define what your job here will be./ Never define a word by using that word in the definition. /[-d defining definition n.] >> define  (di FYN) vt. 1. to state or set down the boundaries of; to delineate; 2. to determine or state the nature or extent of; 3. to differentiate; 4. to state the mean- ing or meanings of a word (like we’re doing here)

Helen’s degenerate lifestyle was the result of a difficult childhood. / Does reading degenerate magazines corrupt one or must one be degenerate to buy such magazines? / Helen mentioned above is a degenerate. / As one ages one’s sense of humor tends to degenerate and the jokes get racier. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. depraved] >> degenerate  (di JEN er it for adj. and n., di JEN er AYT for v.) adj. 1. sunken below a former normalcy of condition or character; 2. morally corrupt —n. a degenerate person, especially one who is sexually perverse —vi. to decline morally, culturally, and so on

Smoking cigarettes is deleterious to everyone’s health not just the smoker’s./ An infestation of locusts can have a deleterious effect on a farmer’s crops. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. pernicious] >> deleterious  (DEL it ir ee uhss) adj. bad for health or well-being; injurious; harmful

Hitler was the most infamous demagogue of the twentieth century./ Stalin was a terrible dictator but he does not qualify as a demagogue because he gained power by brute force alone. /[demagogy -ry n.] >> demagogue  (DEM uh GOG) n. one who tries to rouse the people by appealing to emotion, prejudice, etc. to win them over and attain (political) power

Princess Diana had a regal demeanor and a gentle one./ Between a Rottweiler and a Doberman pinscher the Rottie has the meaner demeanor. /[Brit. sp. demeanour] [Syn. bearing] >> demeanor  (di MEEN oer) n. outward manner; carriage; the way one behaves

“Demising an apartment” is not a phrase you’ll see or hear every day. / The “demise of a monarch” is a much more likely use of the word even though there are few monarchs left today. / “Death” is the most commonly used meaning of the term so let this be the demise of this discussion. /[-d demising] [Syn. death] >> demise  (dim YZ) vt. 1. to transfer an estate by lease (especially for a fixed amount of time); 2. to transfer sovereignty by abdication or death —n. 1. a transfer of an estate by lease (for a fixed term); 2. the transfer of sovereignty by death or abdicating; 3. death

Athens had the first experiment in democracy we know of./ American democracy was not viewed kindly by the crowned heads of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Europe./ India is the world’s largest democracy in terms of population./ Schoolchildren learn the principles of democracy by voting for class officers (who have little to no power)./ The U.S. Constitution is the primary legal document that assures the prin- ciples of democracy be followed. >> democracy  (di MAHK ri see) n. 1. government by the people, with the popu- lace holding the reins of power, either directly or through elected representatives; power in the hands of the ruled; 2. a country, state, etc. with that type of govern- ment; 3. majority rule; 4. the principle of equal rights and opportunities for all, and equal treatment by the legal system; the practice of these principles

Demographics are a major concern to businesses. / Before McDonald’s picks a location for a restaurant they need to know that the demographics are such that there are many young couples with children that have enough money to eat out a couple times a week. >> demographic  (DEM uh GRA fik) n. a vital statistic of human population, such as age, income, sex, and so on, used mainly for marketing research

Descartes was the first philosopher to demonstrate his existence by the dic- tum “I think therefore I am.”/ The operation of the steam engine is often demonstrated in classes using a cutaway working model./ There are often people demonstrating certain foods at the warehouse club by offering free samples in small cups./ Tears on her cheek demonstrated Patricia’s sadness. /[-d demonstrating] >> demonstrate  (DEM uhn STRAYT) vt. 1. to prove; show by reasoning; 2. to make clear or explain through examples, experiments, etc.; 3. to show how a prod- uct works or what it tastes like in order to sell it; 4. to show feelings plainly

During an election campaign it has become customary for one candidate to attempt to denigrate the other’s reputation. / Negative advertising consists of denigrating one’s competitor’s product. /[-d denigrating] [Syn. defame disparage] >> denigrate  (DEN ig RAYT) vt. 1. to blacken; 2. to defame; to disparage the char- acter of

American loyalists denounced Washington as a traitor to the British Crown./ The French patriots denounced Louis XVI as a tyrant./ The Japanese government did not denounce the naval treaty that limited the size and number of warships they could build/ they just disregarded it. /[-d denouncing] [Syn. criticize] >> denounce  (di NOWNS) vt. 1. to condemn publicly; inform against; 2. to accuse of being evil; 3. to give formal notice of the termination of (a treaty, armistice, etc.)

Cara denied the charge that she had cheated on her diet./ Evan did not deny having cheated on Mary but claimed that she had cheat- ed on him first./ Ian denied having painted the big mural outside the store./ Ryan was forced to deny Sophie use of the handicapped parking space on the grounds that she wasn’t handicapped./ I deny all of you access to the ice cream in my freezer./ I also must deny your request for parole. /[denied -ing denial n.] >> deny  (di NY) vt. 1. to declare something untrue; contradict; 2. to not accept as factual; to reject as unfounded, unreal, etc.; 3. to disown; to refuse to acknowledge as one’s own; rerepudiate; 4. to not allow the use of or access to; 5. refuse to grant or give; 6. to refuse a person’s request

Leonardo DaVinci’s Last Supper depicts a Passover seder./ A portrait artist will depict a likeness of you for a fee./ The sports section of today’s newspaper depicts a detailed account of yester- day’s games artfully drawn in words. /[-ed -ing -ion n.] >> depict  (di PIKT) vt. 1. to portray; to represent in a painting, drawing, sculpture, etc.; 2. to describe; to picture in words

My neighbor’s mother deplores the day he was born./ Any feeling individual must deplore the conditions in which the urban homeless are condemned to live./ The whole world deplores the lack of safety measures that were in place at Chernobyl’s nuclear power plant. /[-d deploring] >> deplore  (di PLAWR) vt. 1. to be sorry about; to regret; lament; 2. to regard as unfortunate or awful; 3. to disapprove of; to condemn as wrong

The derelict boat bobbed up and down in the waves just waiting to be swamped. / The reason the burglars gained access was because the gate guard was derelict in his duty. / The derelict building was an eyesore and a haven for a swarm of rats. / It is not unusual to see a derelict sleeping in a cardboard hovel by the side of a building on the Bowery. /[-ion n.] [Syn. remiss negligent] >> derelict  (DER il ikt) adj. 1. deserted by the owner; forsaken; abandoned; 2. remiss in performance of duty; neglectful of duty; negligent —n. 1. an aban- doned property; 2. a destitute person with no home or job

Jack derided his sister for having trouble riding the bicycle./ It is poor form to deride anyone for his or her handicaps or inabilities. /[-d deriding derision n. derisive adj. deridingly adv.] [Syn. ridicule] >> deride  (di RYD) vt. to laugh at contemptuously or scornfully; to make fun of; ridicule

Many modern medicines are tropical plant derivatives./ The Lord of the Rings movies were derivative films having been taken from Tolkein’s writings./ Chocolate is a derivative of the cacao bean. /[-ly adv.] >> derivative  (di RIV a TIV) adj. 1. using or taken from other sources; 2. not original -n. something derived

Alice derived most of her term paper from Web sources./ Pythagoras derived his famous theorem by drawing squares on the sides of a right triangle and relating their areas./ The ancestry of many immigrants may be derived from the archives at Ellis Island. /[-d deriving derivation n.] >> derive  (di RYV) vt. 1. to get, take, or receive something from a source; 2. to arrive at by reasoning; deduce or infer; 3. to trace to or from its source; show the origin and development of

Wally’s descent down the banister was much faster than it would have been had he used the stairs./ Jack could trace his descent from a long line of no-good Nicks./ The ski trail made a steep descent before leveling off./ The Mongols’ descent upon the caravan came swiftly and without warning./ The power of the Egyptian pharoahs was in descent long before the reign of the last pharoah Cleopatra. >> descent  (dee SENT) n. 1. a coming or going down; 2. lineage; ancestry; 3. a downward slope; 4. a sudden attack or raid (on or upon); 5. a decline; fall

Lewis Carrol describes Alice’s adventures in Wonderland as growing “curi- ouser and curiouser.”/ Ernest Hemingway was able to describe places in words so that exotic detailed pictures formed in his readers’ minds./ Valerie used her compass to describe a 3 cm radius circle. /[-d describing] >> describe  (di SKRYB) vt. 1. to give a detailed account of; 2. to make a word pic- ture of; 3. to trace or outline

James Michener’s description of the islands of the South Pacific were vivid enough to transport the reader there./ Write a brief description of the accident and how you caused it to happen. / There are coffee beans of every description that are grown in South America Africa and other places./ Hal’s arm swept through the description of a 90° arc. >> description  (dis KRIP shin) n. 1. the process of picturing in words; describing; 2. a statement or passage that describes; 3. sort, kind, or variety of; 4. the act of tracing or outlining

Silica gel is a desiccant often packaged with pills in a plastic ventilated tube so that water doesn’t damage the pills. / Desiccants are sometimes packed with clothing or paper goods in little cloth bags. /[Syn. dryer] >> desiccant  (DES ik int) adj. drying —n. a substance that attracts water and is packed with some goods to prevent water from damaging them

Cranberries are completely washed and then dessicated before they are packaged for shipping. / Coffee dessicated by freeze-drying is as popular as the brewed type in most homes in the United States. /[-d desiccating] >> desiccate  (DES ik ayt) vt. 1. to completely dry; 2. to preserve food by freeze- drying, or just drying it

The architect designed the floor plan on a large sketch pad./ It is hard to design a foolproof bank holdup and he or she who thinks otherwise is a fool./ Martha tried to design a plan of study that would help her get ready for the math examination./ Bob designed to work straight through until dinner./ The design of the house was Tara’s own./ Jason built the plane from a commercial design./ The wedding reception went off according to design./ We should lay out the design for the painting before actually working on the canvas. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. intend plan] >> design  (di ZYN) vt. 1. to make creative sketches of; to plan; 2. to plan and carry out; 3. to form (plans) in the mind; to contrive; 4. to intend; purpose —n. 1. a plan, scheme, or project; 2. an aim or purpose; 3. a thing planned for or a result aimed at; 4. the organization of parts, details, form, color, etc. to get an artistic result

Ed has been desolate since Trixie took his teddy bear./ The desert island was a desolate place./ The nuclear tests had left the land in a desolate state./ The naval gunnery practice range was desolated by its almost constant bombardment./ You’ll desolate me if you run away with my best friend without giving me at least 10 days’ notice so that I can replace you. /[-d desolating -ly adv.] >> desolate  (DES uh lit for adj., DES uh LAYT for v.) adj. 1. isolated; lonely; solitary; 2. uninhabited; deserted; 3. made uninhabitable; in a ruined condition; 4. forlorn; wretched —vt. 1. to rid of inhabitants; 2. to make uninhabitable; to devastate; 3. to forsake; abandon; 4. to make wretched, forlorn, etc.

The cowboys learned to despise the scorpions that crawled into their boots at night./ They also despised eating pork and beans night after night. /[-d despising] [Syn. scorn disdain] >> despise  (dis PYZ) vt. 1. to detest; to look on with contempt and scorn; 2. to regard with dislike or repugnance

Destitution is a condition in which it is unenviable to find oneself./ Do not confuse destitution a state of abject poverty with restitution a pay- ing back for injuries caused. /[Syn. poverty] >> destitution  (DES ti TOO shin) n. the state of being very poor; being without; lacking the necessities of life; abject poverty

Peter’s task was to effect the destruction of the old ballpark so that it could be replaced with a new one./ The tornado had caused almost complete destruction where it had touched down./ Destruction is a good thing when practiced in moderation. /[Syn. ruin] >> destruction  (dis TRUHK shin) n. 1. demolition; the act of destroying; slaughter; 2. the fact or state of being demolished; 3. the cause or means of demolition

The professor’s lecture seemed desultory having no connection to anything the class was studying. / When Francine went to get her blood drawn for the test the nurse’s asking her to step on the scale seemed to be desultory. /[Syn. random] >> desultory  (dis UHL ter ee) adj. 1. lacking connection; aimless; random; 2. lack- ing in relevance

The shipping container was a detachment from a long-haul tractor-trailer’s bed./ A detatchment of marines was sent in to reconnoiter before the main land- ing was to take place./ The cat watched the dog being bathed with complete detachment having no clue that she was to be next. >> detachment  (di TACH mint) n. 1. a separating; 2. a unit of troops separated from a larger unit for special duty; a small permanent unit organized for special service; 3. the state of being disinterested, impartial, or aloof

A chain-link fence determines the boundaries of many city playgrounds./ A meeting between the two contenders should determine once and for all the true heavyweight champion./ The jury has to determine whether the defendant is innocent or guilty as charged./ The prevailing winds will determine where the balloon goes. /[-d determining] [Syn. decide learn] >> determine  (di TOER min) vt. 1. to set limits to; to bound; define; 2. to settle a dispute, question, etc.; to decide; 3. to come to a conclusion; 4. to assign direction to

President George H. W. Bush shocked many growers when he announced that he detested broccoli. / Most people detest having to visit the dentist’s office. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. hate] >> detest  (di TEST) vt. to intensely dislike; to abhor; to hate

We must not detract strength from his argument./ Do not detract the importance of following one’s heart./ Frowning detracts from her beauty. /[-ed -ing -or n.] >> detract  (dee TRAKT) vt. 1. to take or draw away (from); 2. to belittle; disparage -vi. to remove something desirable (from)

Deuterium oxide is known as heavy water. / Regular hydrogen has a single proton in its nucleus/ deuterium’s nucleus has a proton and a neutron. >> deuterium  (doo TEAR ee uhm) n. an isotope of hydrogen (atomic weight of 2.014, symbol D) used in nuclear reactors

Ned’s development of his muscles is impressive./ Development of the Polaroid picture is easy to see as the image gains in def- inition before your eyes./ What a revolting development this is!/ The new housing development will occupy 40 acres. /[-al adj. -ally adv.] >> development  (di VEL uhp mint) n. 1. a growing or expanding (in size, strength, etc.); 2. a step or stage in growth, advancement, etc.; 3. an event or an occurence; 4. a number of buildings on a large tract of land

Pouring orange juice over your breakfast cereal would definitely be consid- ered a deviance from the norm. / Deviance is not necessarily a negative thing as proven by the Wright broth- ers at Kitty Hawk in 1903. /[Syn. variance] >> deviance  (DEE vee ins) n. a turning away from what is usual or what is accepted as being normal

The diagnosis of strep infection came after the throat culture returned from the lab./ Before we can diagnose your business’s problems we must analyze your clientele your expenditures and your suntan./ Steve’s diagnosis of the cause of the computer’s strange graphics was the Rhino virus which put a horn on every image’s nose. >> diagnosis  (DY uhg NOH sis) n. 1. the act of finding or classifying a condition by means of medical examination, lab tests, etc.; 2. a careful studying and analyz- ing of the facts to understand or explain something; 3. a decision or opinion based on such an analysis

Fidel Castro is renowned for his long diatribes against the U.S. government. / Diatribes tend to cause the listener to close his or her ears and mind after a short length of time. /[Syn. denunciation] >> diatribe  (DY i TRYB) n. an abusive, bitter, ranting criticism or denouncing

Stuttering is often an expression of diffidence. / Diffidence in speech can often be overcome by overpreparing. /[Syn. shyness] >> diffidence  (DIF i dins) n. lack of self-confidence marked by hesitation in speech

Max Schulman’s Dobie Gillis is famous for straying from his subject and then going back to it with the phrase “but I digress.” / While explaining to her class how to find the areas of different quadrilaterals Mrs. Green digressed and told how much she had enjoyed that day’s lunch. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. deviate] >> digress  (di GRESS) vi. to momentarily or temporarily stray from the main subject

During Bill’s discussion of bridge designing came a 10-minute-long digres- sion about his love of chocolate milk./ Laura’s digression on her childhood was barely noticed by her art history students most of whom were already asleep. /[(to) digress vi. -al adj.] >> digression  (dy GRESH in) n. 1. an act of straying from the main theme or idea when talking or writing; 2. a temporary straying from the main theme

Gail was diminutive with the top of her head barely reaching Michael’s chest. / The diminutive of kitchen is kitchenette. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. small] >> diminutive  (di MIN yoo tiv) adj. small of stature; much smaller than average; tiny —n. 1. a very small person; 2. a word formed from another by adding a suffix indicating smallness

If you don’t use chlorine bleach on your cotton whites you’re likely to have them come out a dingy yellow./ Jane’s attempt to wangle an invitation to the party was rather dingy. /[dingily adv. dinginess n.] >> dingy  (DIN gee) adj. 1. yucky; dull; not clean; grimy; 2. ragged; gloomy

Dirges are customary as part of certain religions’ funeral ceremonies. / An elegy is a type of dirge without music. /[Syn. lament] >> dirge  (DOERJ) n. a slow, sad, funereal hymn or poem expressing grief; a lament

Part of growing up is to disabuse ourselves of the notion that whatever we need will be given to us. / It is just as important to disabuse ourselves of the idea that good deeds are always rewarded. /[-d disabusing] [Syn. correct] >> disabuse  (dis uh BYOOZ) vt. to get rid of false ideas; to set straight; to free from misconception

Inez disbursed $23.47 at the grocery store. / On payday your employer disburses your salary in the form of a paycheck. /[-d dispersing] [Syn. expend] >> disburse  (dis BOERS) vt. to pay out; to expend (a sum of money)

It was not hard to discern the difference between the hearts and the spades in the deck of cards./ Terry discerned a feeling of approval rising from her captive audience. /[-ed -ing -able adj. -ably adv.] [Syn. perceive distinguish] >> discern  (dis OERN) vt. 1. to clearly distinguish one thing from another or others; to recognize as distinct or separate; 2. to clearly make out

Now is the winter of our discontent after having shoveled all that snow. / After 10 days of eating steak and potatoes one becomes discontent with that diet. >> discontent  (DIS cuhn TENT) n. a dissatisfaction with a person, thing, or state of affairs; a desire for something more or different —vt. to make discontent

The unhappy incoming news was discordant with the recipient’s more uplifting expectations./ A discordant note was struck by the politician addressing the labor union leadership. /[discordance or discordancy n. -ly adv.] >> discordant  (dis KAWR dint) adj. 1. not in agreement; conflicting; 2. out of harmony; clashing; dissonant

Everything in the store was discounted 15%./ Many Treasury bonds are sold at a discounted rate to allow for the interest that will accrue between purchase and maturity./ Corporate bonds are often sold at a discount rate so that the purchaser pays less than the face value./ In certain furniture stores the pieces are marked so that the customer can discount 50% to get the selling price./ The police officer discounted most of Denise’s story which made her role look better than it actually was. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. reduction] >> discount  (DIS cownt for n., dis COWNT for v.) n. 1. money off the usual price; 2. a deduction from a debt allowed for paying it early or in cash; 3. the interest rate charged —vt. 1. to pay or get the present value of a note less the interest; 2. to sub- tract an amount or percent from (a bill, price, etc.); 3. to sell at less than the usual price; 4. to take a story, statement, opinion, etc. at less than face value, or to totally disregard it as exaggeration

The secretary of state gave a discourse on foreign policy./ The doctoral candidate’s dissertation was a discourse on the number of seeds that one might expect to find on various breeds of strawberries and why./ The two musicians discoursed with each other about the meaning of Beethoven’s notations in the margins of his pieces./ The president discoursed at some length about not knowing how the terri- ble economy could be fixed and about how it wasn’t his fault anyway. /[-d discoursing] [Syn. speak] >> discourse  (DIS kawrs) n. 1. exchange of ideas, information, etc. usually through talking; conversation; 2. a long, formal speech or essay on a subject; lec- ture; treatise; dissertation —vi. 1. to carry on a talk; confer; 2. to speak or write for- mally and at some length

Jonas Salk’s discovery of a vaccine against polio put an end to the most feared infectious disease of the twentieth century./ The discovery of Lana Turner in Schwab’s drug store in Los Angeles is the stuff of which fairy tales are made./ All the evidence the prosecution has must be revealed to the defense dur- ing the discovery process. /[discoveries pl.] [Syn. learning] >> discovery  (dis KUH vir ee) n. 1. finding out about, seeing, or knowing about first; 2. making famous; bringing to the public’s attention; 3. pretrial procedures for compelling the disclosure of certain facts

The authorities discredited Marsha’s story about how she was abducted by little green creatures in a flying saucer./ The fact that he had been caught lying in three previous incidents discredited any further testimony he would give./ The story of how he had turned and run in a previous emergency discredited his standing as a local hero. /[-ed -ing] >> discredit  (dis KRED it) vt. 1. to reject as not true; to disbelieve; 2. to be a cause for disbelief or distrust; to cast doubt on; 3. to damage the reputation or credibility of; disgrace

You may pay by check or by cash at your own discretion./ Karen snuck the chips and dip into her bedroom with discretion so nobody could see she was deviating from her diet. >> discretion  (dis KRE shin) n. 1. the ability to decide or to choose; power to judge or act; 2. the quality of being careful about what one does or says; prudence

Tax rates discriminate between married and single payers./ Ralph’s fingers were sensitive enough to discriminate between apples and pears by just touching their skins./ While shopping for credit terms it pays to discriminate by comparing the terms very carefully./ The law discriminates between keeping domestic and wild animals as pets generally prohibiting the latter./ When it comes to wine Judy has very discriminating taste (among bottles costing $6 or less). /[-d discriminating] [Syn. distinguish] >> discriminate  (dis KRIM in ayt for v., dis KRIM in it for adj.) vt. 1. to recognize a difference between; differentiate; 2. to notice the difference between; to distinguish -vi. 1. to be discerning; 2. to treat differently; show partiality —adj. involving making distinctions; distinguishing carefully

If you want to see the complete discussion that preceeded the passage of a law read The Congressional Record./ It is important that you participate in a thorough discussion of current events before you decide for whom to vote. >> discussion  (dis KUSH in) n. talking or writing in which the pros and cons and/or various aspects of a subject are considered

The cat totally disdained the dog who was content to lie on the hard floor rather than on the soft pile of laundry./ Gandhi might have disdained walking among the lowest caste of the Indian people but he did not./ In some industries the white-collar workers foolishly look upon the blue- collar workers with disdain. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. despise] >> disdain  (dis DAYN) vt. to regard or treat someone/thing as beneath one’s dig- nity; to refuse or reject with aloofness and scorn; to show contempt for —n. the feeling, attitude, or expression of scornfulness; aloof contempt

At the first sign of disease a doctor’s visit is a good idea./ Jaundice is only one of many diseases of the liver./ High unemployment is a disease that can cripple society. >> disease  (diz EEZ) n. 1. any varying from healthiness; illness in general; 2. a cer- tain destructive process in an organ or organism rooted in a particular cause; ail- ment; 3. any harmful or destructive social condition

Red Chief’s kidnappers disguised their voices when they made ransom demands never dreaming that the child’s parents would not want him back./ While disguised as a ghost Shaila kept bumping into walls./ The bank robber was incorrect when he thought the Groucho Marx dis- guise would prevent his being recognized. /[-d disguising] >> disguise  (dis GYZ) vt. 1. to make look, sound, etc. different from usual so as to be unrecognizable; 2. to hide or obscure the real nature of —n. 1. anything used to change one’s appearance, voice, etc.; 2. the state of being disguised; 3. the act or practice of disguising

Donna’s hair was quite disheveled as if she had gotten up after a night’s tossing and turning and not brushed it./ Howard looked disheveled as if he were wearing the clothes he had slept in. >> disheveled  (dis SHEV ild) adj. sloppily dressed and untidy; sloppy; not neatly groomed; having wrinkled clothing, etc.

Carrie was disingenuous telling Kaj what she thought he wanted to hear just to get rid of him./ When Harry asked Sally why she had been late her disingenuous answer included a story about a jacknifed tractor-trailer truck. /[-ness n. -ly adv.] >> disingenuous  (DIS in JEN yoo uhs) adj. not straightforward; not candid or frank; insincere

The medical examiner sometimes has to disinter a body from the grave in order to perform an autopsy on it. / It is only with the passage of time that the actual tape recordings of Lyndon Johnson’s White House conversations were disinterred. /[-red -ring] [Syn. exhume] >> disinter  (dis in TER) vt. 1. to dig up from the grave; to exhume; 2. to bring to light something that had been hidden

When asked whether she would like to go to the Dodgers game Maria expressed a total disinterestedness. / Joel’s disinterestedness in getting his schoolwork done on time led to his failing grades. /[Syn. indifference] >> disinterestedness  (dis IN trist id niss) n. a lack of caring, involvement, or concern

Walter disparaged his own reputation when he told the story of the time he had spent behind bars./ Don’t disparage me by talking about me behind my back. /[-d disparaging vt. or adj. disparagingly adv.] >> disparage  (dis PA ridzh) vt. 1. to discredit; 2. to speak ill of; show disrespect for; to belittle

When Diane interviewed the brother and sister for the job she spent a dis- parate amount of time with the brother./ Marty said the twins were as alike as peas in a pod but to Jill they seemed as disparate as green beans and cantaloupes. >> disparate  (dis PA rit) adj. not alike; distinct or different in kind; unequal

There is a disparity between a private’s and a general’s paycheck commen- surate with that of their ranks./ There is a disparity in the areas of a triangle and a rectangle of equal base and height. >> disparity  (dis PA ri tee) n. 1. difference or inequality, as in rank, amount, qual- ity, etc.; 2. unlikeness; incongruity

When Kate saw Julio stand on his head while spinning two rings on each ankle it was enough to dispel any doubt that he was the man for her./ The policemen’s presence helped to dispel the crowd. /[-led -ling] [Syn. scatter] >> dispel  (dis PEL) vt. to drive away; scatter; make vanish; disperse

The spreader assured that the grass seeds would get a thorough dispersal./ When white light is passed through a prism a dispersal occurs and the rays form the colors of the rainbow./ In fact a real rainbow is caused by the dispersal of the sun’s rays by the water in the air. /[Syn. scattering] >> dispersal  (dis POER sil) n. 1. a scattering; a spreading about; 2. a breaking up of light into its component colored rays (by use of a triangular prism)

Allen’s disputatious nature made him a likely candidate for the debating team. / Whenever Daphne was accused of being disputatious she would retort “That’s debatable.” /[-ly adv.] >> disputatious  (DIS pyoo TAY shis) adj. fond of arguing; contentious; eager to dispute

Disregard that little man behind the curtain! (Where have we heard some- thing like that before?)/ It is important to never disregard the feelings of others./ When Frank painted his room he treated his wife’s dislike of red with total disregard. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. neglect] >> disregard  (DIS ri GAHRD) vt. 1. to pay little or no attention to; 2. to not respect; slight —n. 1. lack of attention; neglect; 2. lack of respect

Some guests feel it proper to dissemble their displeasure so as not to upset the host or hostess./ You want the truth? We have to dissemble our facts for fear that you can’t handle the truth./ Gary dissembled his dislike for chocolate by asking for a second piece. /[-d dissembling] >> dissemble  (dis EM bl) vt. to hide beneath a false appearance; to disguise -vi. to hide the truth, or one’s true feelings, motives, etc. by pretending; to behave hypocritically

The newspaper’s purpose was to disseminate the ideas of its editorial staff over a wide region./ Maple seeds have sails so that they can be disseminated by air currents over a wide area. /[-d disseminating] [Syn. broadcast promulgate] >> disseminate  (dis EM in AYT) vt. to scatter far and wide; spread about, as if sow- ing seed; make known widely

Bulls and bears dissent from one another in their stock purchase plans./ Henry VIII’s dissent with the pope caused the formation of the Anglican Church./ Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. wrote some very famous dissents during his term on the Supreme Court. /[-ed -ing] >> dissent  (dis ENT) vi. 1. to have a different belief or opinion; disagree, often with from; 2. to reject the doctrine of an established religion —n. the act of disagreeing, specifically a legal opinion against the majority’s; religious nonconformity

Cats and dogs have very dissimilar personality traits with the dog trying to please you and the cat believing it’s your job to please it./ Twins Bob and Ray have dissimilar jobs at the phone company/ Bob’s in operations and Ray’s an operator. /[-ity n. -ly adv.] [Syn. different] >> dissimilar  (dis SIM i loer) adj. not alike; different

The rising sun will help to dissipate the fog./ Of course it won’t completely dissipate until the sun’s rays have had a chance to dry up all the water droplets./ Don’t dissipate all your energy looking for a leprechaun. /[-d dissipating] [Syn. scatter] >> dissipate  (DIS i PAYT) vt. 1. to break up and scatter; dispel; disperse; 2. to drive completely away; make disappear; 3. to waste or squander

If you want to learn the true meaning of dissonance go listen to an ele- mentary school band concert. / The later works of Igor Stravinsky are famous for their deliberate use of dissonance. >> dissonance  (DIS uh nins) n. 1. inharmonious sounds; chords containing clash- ing sounds; 2. a lack of harmony or agreement; discord; incongruity

Alcoholic spirits are removed from fermented mash by means of distillation. / Distillation is used to separate gasoline from crude oil. /[Syn. concentration purification] >> distillation  (DIS til AY shin) n. 1. a process by which a liquid is vaporized, and the vapor is cooled to form a purer or more highly concentrated substance; 2. a purifying or refining by distillation

Each ballplayer is a distinct entity./ Every puppy in the litter has a distinct personality./ Every school bus has a distinct serial number./ Our effort brought a distinct success. /[Syn. different] >> distinct  (dis TEENKT) adj. 1. not alike; different; 2. not the same; individual; separate; 3. clearly sensed or marked off; clear; plain; 4. well defined; unmistakable; definite

Rubies and sapphires can be easily distinguished from each other by color./ Hardness distinguishes real diamonds from fake ones./ The Dewey Decimal System helps us to distinguish a book by its cover./ “The distinguished senator from (your state)” is a title of rank and respect. /[-ed -ing -able adj. -ably adv.] [Syn. discriminate] >> distinguish  (dis TING wish) vt. 1. to tell apart; to sense or show the difference in; to differentiate; 2. to be an essential feature of; characterize; 3. to separate and classify; 4. to make famous or prominent; give distinction to

Rubber dolls and action figures are easy to distort./ Martin’s report on Korea seriously distorts the facts. /[-ed -ing -er n.] [Syn. deform] >> distort  (dis TAWRT) vt. 1. to twist out of shape; change the normal shape, form, or appearance of; 2. to misrepresent; misstate; pervert

Diversion of the Colorado River through tunnels allowed the Hoover Dam to be built near Las Vegas./ The Japanese attacked the Aleutians in World War II as a diversion to draw America’s attention away from Midway./ Six Flags provides diversion at several amusement parks. >> diversion  (di VER zhuhn) n. 1. a turning aside; 2. distraction of attention; 3. anything that distracts the attention, such as a pastime or an amusement

The diversity of its people is thought to be one of the great strengths of the United States. / An interesting menu in a restaurant should offer the customers a diversity of choices. /[Syn. variety] >> diversity  (di VERS i tee) n. the quality or state of being different or varied

For failing to follow orders the sergeant was divested of his stripes. / Given the recent performance of the stock market now seems like a pretty good time to divest your portfolio of poor performers. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. strip] >> divest  (di VEST) vt. 1. to strip of clothing or rank; 2. to get rid of unwanted things

Divination was often used in the Old West to decide where to dig wells for water./ Nostradamus’s stock and trade was divination./ One who succeeds in divination is often referred to as a lucky guesser./ Divination is ESP (not ESPN). >> divination  (DIV i NAY shun) n. 1. a trying to predict the future or examine the unknown by means beyond human understanding; 2. a prophecy; prediction; fore- knowing; 3. a correct guess or good intuition

Whether or not to get a second dog was a divisive issue for Lois and Jeremy./ Which bills should be paid first is often a divisive matter for newlyweds and longtime couples alike. >> divisive  (di VYS iv or di VIS iv) adj. causing division, especially causing disagree- ment or dissension

The newspaper reporter was obliged to not divulge the source of his highly sensitive information./ If I were to divulge to you the secret processes that were involved in the making of this product I’d have to shoot you. /[-d divulging] [Syn. reveal] >> divulge  (div UHLDZH) vt. to make known; disclose; unveil; reveal

You must promise never to divulge the location of the hidden treasure or else! / Unless you pay to see my hand I do not have to divulge which cards I was holding when I won that hand. /[-d divulging] [Syn. reveal] >> divulge  (di VULJ) vt. to make known, disclose, reveal

In the early part of the twentieth century the story about a young George Washington chopping down a cherry tree was dogmatic. / The scientific community encourages its members to question everything and to avoid being dogmatic. / Dr. Jackson tends to be dogmatic when he hands out his diagnoses to the medical students. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. dictatorial] >> dogmatic  (dawg MAT ik) adj. 1. of or like dogma; 2. accepted without proof; 3. stating an opinion with arrogance

The way that man slipped into the bus seat before the pregnant woman could take it marks him as a dolt. / Who but a dolt goes out of the house wearing his or her shoes on the wrong feet? /[-ish adj. -ishly adv. -ishness n.] >> dolt  (DOHLT) n. stupid, slow-witted person; blockhead

Domestic tasks which used to be exclusively a woman’s are shared by both men and women in modern homes./ Domestic receipts for many Hollywood movies are exceeded by overseas receipts./ Some very fine domestic wines are produced in California Washington and New York./ Nora worked as a domestic in the home of a Hollywood actress./ The cardboard box in the attic contained old sheets towels blankets canning jars and other domestics. /[domestically adv.] >> domestic  (duh MES tik) adj. 1. having to do with the home, housekeeping, or family; 2. of one’s own country, or the country referred to; 3. made or produced in the home country; 4. tame —n. 1. a houseworker such as a maid, housekeeper, or butler; 2. blankets, linens, towels, etc.

About 90% of all people show dominance of the right hand./ In a pride of lions dominance is usually exhibited by the largest male mem- ber of the group. >> dominance  (DAHM in ins) n. controlling or being in control; authority

While it was a close call the dominant political party in twentieth-century U.S. presidential politics was Republican./ The dominant grape variety in the Bordeaux region of France is the caber- net sauvignon./ The New York Yankees is the dominant professional baseball team of all time. /[Syn. preeminent] >> dominant  (DAHM in uhnt) adj. exercising authority or influence; ruling; pre- vailing; controlling

Donations of usable clothing are always helpful./ Maribel always makes a donation to the Lung Association./ Donations to the March of Dimes led to a vaccine for polio. /[Syn. present] >> donation  (doh NAY shin) n. 1. the act of giving; 2. a gift or contribution to a charitable organization

The night watchman was dormant on the job. / While the cat may appear dormant it is aware of everything going on around it. / A dormant volcano might not have erupted in the last 100 years yet it is still alive. / Most of the volcanoes in the Cascades are considered to be dormant. /[-ly adv. dormancy n.] [Syn. latent] >> dormant  (DAWR mint) adj. 1. asleep; 2. as if asleep; resting; 3. inactive; inoperative

Clydesdale horses are used for draft not for riding./ Nora took a draft from her glass of root beer./ Shakespeare wrote drafts of all his plays over and over./ Do you feel a draft in here?/ George answered his party’s draft to run for office. /[-ed -ing/ draught British spelling] >> draft  (DRAFT) n. 1 a drawing or pulling of a vehicle or load; 2. a taking of liq- uid into the mouth; drinking; 3. a rough or preliminary sketch of an artwork or a piece of writing; 4. an air current in a room; 5. the choosing of an individual for some specific purpose —vt. to do any of the above —adj. used for any of the above

In a steel mill or foundry dross ends up on the rubbish heap. / Good garage-sale shoppers learn to separate treasure from dross. >> dross  (DRAWSS) n. 1. a scum that forms on the surface of molten metal; 2. waste material; worthless stuff; rubbish

The tried-and-true way of cleaning a rug in the nineteenth century was to hang it over a rope and drub it with all your might./ The Mets were given an eight-to-one drubbing by the Braves. /[-bed -bing] [Syn. thrash] >> drub  (DRUHB) vt. 1 to beat, as with a stick or club; thrash; 2. to defeat soundly in a fight, contest, etc.

Valerie was rather dubious about whether she was coming to the basketball game. / That premium-brand watch being offered by the street salesperson for $30 is of dubious quality. >> dubious  (DOO bee is) adj. 1. causing doubt; vague; ambiguous; 2. of doubtful value; questionable; shady; 3. skeptical; hesitating

The Greek army was able to take Troy by the duplicity of hiding soldiers in the statue of a horse./ Most dictators stay in power through duplicity making their people believe they’re doing other than they are. /[duplicitous adj. duplicitously adv.] >> duplicity  (doo PLIS i tee) n. double-dealing; hypocritical cunning or deception

Some Native Americans lived in cliff dwellings./ Many southwestern dwellings are made of adobe—a kind of clay readily available there. >> dwelling  (DWEL ing) n. residence; house; abode

The chairman of the company was a human dynamo constantly on the go. / In hydroelectric plants falling water turns the dynamo that generates the electricity. / That weight lifter is strong as a dynamo. >> dynamo  (DY ni MOH) n. 1. a forceful, energetic person; 2. an electrical generator

A person with dysfunctional kidneys has to make use of a dialysis machine. / Serial killers are among the most dysfunctional personalities in the world. >> dysfunctional  (dis FUNK shi nuhl) adj. 1. unable to perform normally or properly; 2. showing impaired or abnormal psychosocial functioning

If one circle is drawn inside another and they are not concentric they must be eccentric./ A football is of an eccentric shape./ Unless one who dresses in a red wig with matching suspenders and over- sized shoes is a clown he or she would have to be called more than a bit eccentric. >> eccentric  (ek SEN trik) adj. 1. not having the same center; 2. not exactly circular in shape or motion; 3. deviating from the norm, as in behavior; odd; unconventional

A good historian gathers his or her information from eclectic sources rather than just one./ Eclectic is the only way to describe the earliest computers which were made from vacuum tubes and a variety of condensers and resistors. >> eclectic  (ek LEK tik) adj. 1. taken from various sources, systems, or doctrines; 2. made up of materials gathered from many different sources, systems, etc.

The plants and animals that live in and around a pond have their own intertwined ecological subsystem./ Urban sprawl’s ecological impact can be clearly seen in the presence of deer and bears on suburban roadways. >> ecological  (ek uh LAH ji kl) adj. having to do with the relations between liv- ing things and their environment or a certain organism and its environment

The economic well-being of his or her household is a major concern to the head of any family./ The indices of economic indicators give a reading of how well the country’s economy is doing./ People’s main economic needs are as much as it takes for them to live comfortably./ Economics is the social science devoted to the study of supply and demand. /[-ally adv.] >> economic  (ek uh NAH mik) adj. 1. dealing with the management of income, expenditures, etc. of a household, business, community, or government; 2. con- cerning the production, distribution, and consumption of wealth; 3. concerned with the material needs of people; —pl. the social science that is concerned with the preceding

Morissa was absolutely ecstatic over the raise in salary that she had received./ It was an ecstatic day for the world champions. /[-ally adv.] >> ecstatic  (ek STA tik) adj. 1. having the nature of being overpowered by joy, hap- piness, or rapture; 2. causing or caused by ecstasy

It might edify you to know that by the time Mozart was 13 he had been appointed honorary concertmaster at the Court of Salzburg. / Watching how a building is constructed can be a very edifying experience (no pun intended). / Edify means to build but that usage is pretty much obsolete by now. /[edified -ing edification n.] >> edify  (ED i FY) vt. to instruct so as to enlighten or improve morally, intellectually, or spiritually

When someone tickles you the effect is that you laugh./ Drinking too much can have the effect of making you light-headed./ The Kid has the talent and quickness to effect a knockout in three rounds. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. consequence outcome/ Ant. cause] >> effect  (uh FEKT) n. 1. something resulting from a cause; a result; 2. the ability to bring about results; 3. an influence or action on something —vt. to bring about; to produce as a result; to cause; to accomplish

Winston Churchill was a very effective speaker./ Certain bug sprays are more effective than others./ The order to report is effective within 24 hours./ We will have an effective solution within the week./ The marines will have an effective force on the ground by the first of next month. /[-ly adv.] >> effective  (uh FEK tiv) adj. 1. creating a result; 2. creating a definite or desired result; efficient; 3. in effect; operative; active; 4. actual, rather than potential or the- oretical; 5. equipped and ready for combat

Aspirin is an efficacious medication with many uses. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. effective] >> efficacious  (EF I KAY shis) adj. capable of creating the desired result; actually creating that result; effective

A diesel engine is much more efficient than a steam engine even though diesel fuel is not clean burning./ When your desk is organized in an efficient manner those things you use most often are the most accessible. >> efficient  (ef FISH int) adj. using a minimum of effort, expense, or waste to cause a desired result with

The so-called ERA or Equal Rights Amendment for women was supported by egalitarian groups. / Egalitarians supported the civil rights movement of the late 1960s. >> egalitarian  (ee GAL i TER ee in) adj. advocating that people should all have equal social, economic, and political rights —n. one who so advocates

When the American people elected [you fill in the name] they made an egregious error./ The dinner served on our flight from St. Louis was absolutely egregious. /[-ly adv.] >> egregious  (e GREE juhs) adj. terrible; filled with undesirable qualities; amazingly bad; flagrant

Terry was elated when he saw that his family had come to watch him play baseball./ Ian was elated at the sight of his grandma’s chocolate cream pies. /[-ly adv.] >> elated  (ee LAY tid) adj. very happy; joyful; filled with elation; high spirited

Gray’s “Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard” is an elegy that laments the loss of ordinary people. / Shelly’s “Adonais” is an elegy mourning the death of John Keats. >> elegy  (EL i gee) n. 1. a song or poem of praise for the dead; 2. any mournful song or poem

There are 106 known chemical elements of which 96 occur in nature./ Your argument seems to contain an element of truth./ Elements of the Eighth Army neared Baghdad. >> element  (EL i mint) n. 1. the most basic (as-small-as-it-gets) part or principle of anything, whether concrete or abstract; 2. a component; a constituent; an ingredi- ent; a factor; a building block

It is elemental that satellites orbit their planets. / The force of an erupting volcano is elemental in its power. / Hunger is an elemental drive/ the urge to be entertained is not. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. basic] >> elemental  (EL im EN til) adj. 1. of or like natural forces; typical of the physical universe; 2. basic and powerful rather than subtle or refined; 3. of any of the four traditional elements (earth, air, fire, and water) traditionally thought to comprise all things

Perry’s quiet manner was meant to elicit a confession./ She hoped to elicit a hint as to what her present might be./ The pitch was made to elicit enough sympathy to get a monetary contribution. /[-ed -ing -able adj. -ation n.] >> elicit  (el IS it) vt. 1. to draw out; evoke; 2. to cause to be revealed

The SEALS are the elite of the U.S. Navy./ The elite of the feline family is the Siberian tiger./ My old IBM Selectric II used courier (10 characters per inch) and elite (12 characters per inch) interchangable type balls./ The British Commandos are an elite group. >> elite  (e LEET) n. 1. those selected or regarded as the finest, best, most distin- guished, etc.; 2. a size of type for typewriters (remember them?) measuring 12 char- acters per inch —adj. of, forming, or suitable for elites

Cicero was well known for his elocution in the Senate of ancient Rome./ Proper elocution requires one to project from the diaphragm rather than just speaking with one’s voice./ Opera singers are often taught elocution. /[-ary adj. -ist n.] >> elocution  (EL i KYOO shin) n. 1. vocalizing words distinctly when speaking in public; 2. the art of public speaking or declaiming (now usually associated with a studied or artificial style)

Mark Twain was an eloquent speaker as well as a humorous one./ Rachel shrugged and sighed an eloquent sigh. /[-ly adv.] >> eloquent  (EL uh kwint) adj. 1. having a vivid, forceful, fluent, graceful, and persuasive quality of writing or speech; 2. vividly expressive

Please elucidate on the subject of why you did not come home last night until after midnight. / Mrs. Jones would appreciate your elucidating on Einstein’s theory of relativ- ity so that it is clear to her whether you understand it. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. explain] >> elucidate  (il OO si DAYT) vt. to clear up (especially something abstract); to explain

The fox does not often elude detection by the hounds./ The prisoner eluded the guards by hiding in the laundry bin./ I recognize her face but her name eludes me. /[-d eluding] [Syn. escape] >> elude  (il OOD) vt. 1. to use quickness, cunning, etc. to avoid being captured; evade; 2. to escape detection, notice, or understanding

Starvation emaciates the body. / People suffering from anorexia emaciate. /[-d emaciating emaciation n.] [Syn. thin waste away] >> emaciate  (im AY shee AYT) vt. to cause to grow excessively thin; to cause to waste away

Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1862 did not emancipate the slaves living in the Union only those in the Confederacy where he had no power. / At age 18 in most states a child can be emancipated from his or her parents’ control. /[-d emancipating emancipation n.] [Syn. free] >> emancipate  (im AN si PAYT) vt. 1. to set free from bondage, slavery, serfdom, and the like; 2. to free from control or restraint

Tree lights and icicles are often added as embellishments./ A good storyteller often adds a few embellishments just to make his (or someone else’s) role appear more important./ William F. Cody’s (Buffalo Bill’s) autobiography has often been called one big embellishment from start to finish./ A rimshot on a snare drum accompanying a TV talk-show host’s punch line is an embellishment. >> embellishment  (em BEL ish mint) n. 1. fancying up; 2. something that adorns, as an ornament, or a bit of fancifulness added to a factual account; a fancy musical phrase

Several corporate executives spent the late 1990s embezzling their stockhold- ers’ money. / Con men are skilled in the art of embezzling. /[-d embezzling -ment -r n.] [Syn. steal] >> embezzle  (em BEZ il) vt. to steal by fraud; to take money from someone on false pretense and then spend it on oneself

Ignore his cynicism/ he’s just an embittered old grouch./ Pulling her hair is bound to embitter her even further. /[-ed -ing -ment n.] >> embitter  (em BIT ir) vt. 1. to anger; make resentful or morose; 2. to make more bitter; exascerbate; aggravate

The homecoming sailor happily embraced his wife and child./ Phyllis embraced Cathy’s offer to help her with math./ Mr. Jones eagerly embraced his new profession./ The science of biology embraces zoology and botany. /[-d embracing] [Syn. include] >> embrace  (em BRAYS) vt. 1. to enfold in the arms, usually as an expression of affection or desire; to hug; 2. to accept readily; to avail oneself of; 3. to take up or adopt (especially eagerly or seriously); 4. to include; contain

His waffling on the subject served only to embroil matters./ The North and South were embroiled in the bloody Civil War. /[-ed -ing -ment n.] >> embroil  (em BROYL) vt. 1. to mix things up; bungle; jumble; 2. to lure into a battle or fight; get into trouble

Loren had to emend the manuscript to take into account the latest informa- tion on the subject./ After finding errors the author emended the text. /[-ed -ing] >> emend  (ee MEND) vt. 1. to make scholarly corrections or improvements to a text; 2. (rare) to correct or improve

The sudden emergence of the beluga whale from beneath the surface caught all the whale watchers by surprise./ The emergence of the sun from below the horizon is well worth getting up early to watch./ It took a few weeks before the emergence of the prickles on the rosebush. >> emergence  (ee MOER jins) n. 1. a becoming visible; coming forth into view; a coming out; 2. an outgrowth from beneath the outer layer of a plant

During the potato famine many people emigrated from Ireland and came to the United States./ Albert Einstein emigrated to the United States from Germany. /[-d emigrating] [Syn. migrate/ Ant. immigrate] >> emigrate  (EM i grayt) vt. to leave one country to settle down in another

The Matterhorn is an eminent peak in the Swiss Alps./ The office of U.S. senator is an eminent position./ George Patton was a general with eminent achievements. /[-ly adv. eminence n.] [Syn. famous] >> eminent  (EM in int) adj. 1. rising above other things or places, both literally and figuratively; high; lofty; 2. projecting; prominent; protruding; 3. standing high when compared to others, as in rank or achievement; renowned; exalted; distinguished

The Italian ambassador to the United Nations was sent as an emissary to the peace talks./ Although the United States was never a member of the League of Nations our government sent an emissary there to look out for American interests. /[emissaries pl.] >> emissary  (EM is ery) n. an agent of a government, a company, or an individual sent on a certain mission

A transmitter’s antenna emits some kind of waves. / A speaker stands before an audience and emits words. / Old Faithful emits hot water at regular intervals. /[-ted -ting] [Syn. discharge] >> emit  (ee MIT) vt. to send out; send forth; give off; utter; discharge

Many medicinal preparations have an emollient effect. / Proper skin care requires replacing skin moisture every day by using emollients. >> emollient  (im AHL yint) adj. softening; soothing —n. a substance that has a softening effect when applied to the skin

After a day outside an emollient is helpful in combating the drying effect of the wind./ Women are more likely to use an emollient than men because the former care more about maintaining their appearance. >> emollient  (i MAHL yint) n. something with a softening or soothing effect, espe- cially a medicinal lotion applied to the skin of the body

Karen always gets very emotional at weddings./ Victor’s return from overseas was an emotional time for his whole family./ Films that cause emotional reactions with lots of tears and “awws!” are often classified as “chick flicks.” /[-ly adv.] >> emotional  (i MOH shin uhl) adj. 1. of dealing with strong feelings; 2. showing feelings, especially strong ones; 3. easily or quick to weep, be angry, etc.; 4. appeal- ing to the emotions; moving people to tears, anger, etc.

When dealing with heart disease doctors emphasize that speed in getting treatment is urgent./ Using eyeliner emphasizes the beauty of your eyes. /[-d emphasizing] [Syn. stress] >> emphasize  (EM fuh SYZ) vt. to give special force and importance to; to stress

George was emphatic in his dislike for broccoli./ When scheduling the students versus teachers basketball game Mr. Hilson was emphatic that it would be played come rain or shine./ At Waterloo Napoleon received an emphatic defeat. /[-ally adv.] >> emphatic  (em FA tik) adj. 1. expressed or done with force of expression or stress; 2. using emphasis (stressing) while speaking or expressing oneself; 3. very striking; forcible; definite

Jason learned to do plumbing and wiring by attempting to emulate what he had seen his dad do./ Many successful comedians emulate the timing of the late Jack Benny./ Some companies have become very successful by emulating others. /[-d emulating] >> emulate  (EM yoo LAYT) vt. 1. to try to equal or surpass, often by copying; 2. to imitate (a person one admires); 3. to rival in success

“America the Beautiful” is an encomium to the natural beauty of the country. / “Adonais” is Shelly’s encomium to the poet John Keats. /[Syn. tribute] >> encomium  (in KOHM ee uhm) n. a formal expression of praise; a hymn or eulogy

The Galley restaurant was completely encompassed by the boat basin./ The resident pass program encompasses our efforts to deal with the parking problem around the college./ The new athletic complex when completed will encompass the complete revitalization of the neighborhood. /[-ed -ing] >> encompass  (en KAHM pis) vt. 1. to close in all around; surround; encircle; 2. to contain; include; 3. to bring about; achieve

When Ian first put on ice skates everyone tried to encourage him—not an easy task because he spent as much time on his belly as on his feet./ All voters should encourage their senators and representatives to support legislation to improve the environment. /[-d encouraging -ment n.] >> encourage  (in KOER ij) vt. 1. to give braveness, hope, or confidence; to embolden; hearten; 2. to give support to; to be favorable to; to foster; to help

One must endorse a check before it can be cashed./ Jack’s teacher endorsed his essay with remarks in red ink./ It is with great pleasure that I endorse that great American icon Mickey Mouse for president of the United States. /[-d endorsing -ment n.] [Syn. approve] >> endorse  (in DAWRS) vt. 1. to sign one’s name on the back of a check; 2. to write a note, title, etc. on a document; 3. to give approval to; support; sanction

It is reputedly well documented that women can endure pain better than men./ Jane endured the cat hair on the rug for as long as she could before she bought the boa constrictor./ The United States has endured for more than 200 years./ He’s holding a 25-pound weight in his left hand/ let’s see how long he can endure. /[-d enduring endurance n.] [Syn. bear continue] >> endure  (in DUR or ind YUR) vt. 1. to hold up under (pain, fatigue, etc.); to stand; bear; undergo; 2. to put up with; tolerate —vi. 1. to continue in existence; last; survive; 2. to bear pain, fatigue, etc. without flinching; hold out

Myles’s mom hoped that he’d use up all his energy in the playground so that he’d be ready for a nap./ Running around and around in circles uses a lot of energy./ It took a good deal of energy to knock home railroad spikes with a sledgehammer./ Electrical energy is most efficiently produced by converting the energy con- tained in sunlight./ In physics work is the amount of energy used multiplied by the distance an object is moved and is measured in foot-pounds. /[Syn. strength] >> energy  (EN oer JEE) n. 1. potential force; inherent power; capacity for vigorous action; 2. such forces in action; 3. strength or power efficiently exerted; 4. various resources such as coal, gas, or petroleum from which heat or electrical energy can be produced; 5. (physics) the capacity to do work

A long commute to work each morning is enough to enervate some people./ Many were enervated by the sight of the fall of the World Trade Center before being angered to strike back./ A home team’s losing streak can be an enervating thing. /[-d enervating enervation n.] [Syn. unnerve weaken] >> enervate  (EN oer VAYT) vt. to sap of strength, life, vigor, etc.; to weaken in some way, physically or otherwise; to devitalize; to —adj. weakened

Planting shade trees often enhances the value of a home./ A trip to the salon enhanced Audrey’s appearance./ Digital photos can often readily be enhanced by the machines at your photo processor’s counter. /[-d enhancing -ment n.] [Syn. intensify] >> enhance  (in HAENS) vt. 1. to make greater (in cost, value, beauty, etc.); height- en; augment; 2. to improve the quality or condition of; 3. to electronically improve the clarity of an image, photo, etc. by means of a computer

Don’s expression was enigmatic/ we could not even imagine what he was thinking./ How the giant snowball appeared on the baseball field in the middle of June was enigmatic. /[-ally* adv.] [Syn. obscure] >> enigmatic  (EN ig MAT ik) adj. of or like a puzzle; perplexing; baffling

Lightning must have been very enigmatic to everyone living prior to the eighteenth century. / Traveling faster than the speed of light is the stuff of science fiction but is enigmatic to today’s science. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. obscure] >> enigmatic  (EN ig MAT ik) adj. like a seemingly inexplicable matter (enigma); perplexing; baffling

Margo enjoys listening to a Beethoven symphony./ Steven enjoyed his song’s receiving a large measure of radio and TV airtime. /[-ed -ing] >> enjoy  (en JOY) vt. 1. to experience pleasure; get pleasure from; relish; 2. to have the benefit or advantage of

Years of experience with the electorate had served to enlighten the senator about the folly of favoring one group over another./ Please enlighten me as to the time you got home last night. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. inform] >> enlighten  (en LY tin) vt. 1. to free from ignorance, prejudice, or superstition; 2. to inform; make clear to; educate

The Romans and the Scots had great enmity toward one another./ Considerable enmity characterized rival gangs of Chicago during Prohibition. /[Syn. hostility animosity antagonism] >> enmity  (EN mi tee) n. the bitter anger or feeling of an enemy, or of mutual enemies toward one another; hostility; antagonism

The success of the debating team does not rest on the shoulders of one member but falls on the ensemble./ With two pairs of pants two blouses and two jackets you can make eight different ensembles./ This is a theatrical ensemble with no single star./ The string quartet was a very talented ensemble. >> ensemble  (on SOM bil) n. 1. all parts taken together; the total effect; 2. a com- plete costume, especially one having matching articles of clothing, like a suit; 3. a group of actors, dancers, etc., who perform together; 4. a musical group

Einstein first enunciated his theory of relativity in 1905. / It is important to enunciate clearly to make your position understood by others. / Bob and Carol enunciated their engagement to each other. /[-d enuciating] [Syn. utter] >> enunciate  (in UHN see AYT) vt. 1. to state in a systematic way; 2. to pronounce words clearly; 3. to announce

Chlorophyll acts as an enzyme in green plants’ process of photosynthesis. / Pepsin and retsyn are two enzymes that aid in human digestion. >> enzyme  (EN zym) n. any one of many proteins developed by plants and ani- mals that act as catalysts in certain chemical reactions

French cuisine has a great appeal to the epicure. / Snails while a common delicacy in France are the exclusive domain of the epicure in this country. / Chinese French and Italian cuisines are no longer for the enjoyment of American epicures only. /[Syn. gourmet gastronome] >> epicure  (EP ik yur) n. a person who has an appreciation of fine food and drink, and enjoys consuming same

The epidemiology of the outbreak of the Ebola virus in Africa has been stud- ied very carefully./ The epidemiology of West Nile virus and its outbreak in the eastern United States is under close scrutiny. /[epidemiological adj. epidemiologist n.] >> epidemiology  (EP i DEEM ee OL uh jee) n. 1. the branch of medicine that investigates the causes and control of epidemics; 2. all of the elements that com- bine to cause or prevent a disease in a population; ecology of a disease

An epilogue is to the end of a story what a prologue is to the beginning./ After his opera Don Giovanni ended with the lead character’s going to hell Mozart felt obliged to add an epilogue that said the Don’s departure left the world a happier place./ Douglas MacArthur’s “Old Soldiers Never Die” speech to Congress may be looked upon as the epilogue to his career. >> epilogue  (EP i LOG) n. 1. a closing section added to a novel, play, etc. provid- ing extra comment, interpretation, or information; 2. a short speech or poem read by an actor to the audience at the end of a play

W. C. Fields proposed the following epitaph for himself: “Here lies W. C. Fields. I would rather be living in Philadelphia.” (It is not on his tombstone.)/ When World War II ended its epitaph was splashed across newspaper front pages in every city. >> epitaph  (EP it AF) n. 1. words written on a tomb or gravestone in memory of the person buried there; 2. a short piece in prose or verse, written as a tribute to a dead person, past event, etc.

Egghead is an epithet for an intellectual person. / In King Ethelred the Unready’s name “the Unready” is an epithet. >> epithet  (EP i THET) n. 1. an often derogatory word or phrase used to character- ize someone; 2. a descriptive name or title (for example, Alexander the Great)

A good book report should critique as well as epitomize the story of the book./ Actor Michael Douglas epitomizes most of the qualities of his father Kirk. /[-d epitomizing] [Syn. summarize] >> epitomize  (i PIT uh MYZ) vt. 1. to summarize the main points of a book, report, incident, etc.; 2. showing all the particular qualities of something

Tropical climates are equable rather than seasonal. / It was strange to see George fly off the handle because he is usually quite equable. /[equably adv. equability n.] [Syn. steady] >> equable  (EK wib il) adj. not varying very much; even tempered; serene; not readily upset

The equivalence of 2.54 centimeters and 1 inch is a well-known relationship. / A generic drug has the chemical equivalence of its brand-name cousin at a lower price. >> equivalence  (ik WIV il ens) n. equality of value, meaning, force, grade, weight, and so on

Almost every character in Lewis Carroll’s books is equivocal except for Alice. / The origin of the hamburger is equivocal but everyone attributes the origin of the ice-cream cone to the St. Louis World’s Fair. / The shopkeeper called the police when he considered the behavior of the person hanging around outside his shop to be equivocal. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. obscure] >> equivocal  (ik WIV ik il) adj. 1. capable of being interpreted in more than one way; purposely vague; obscure; 2. uncertain; doubtful; 3. suspicious; questionable conduct

Part of a defense attorney’s job is to equivocate so as to leave the jury with a reasonable doubt. / When the police are interviewing a suspect and he or she equivocates they can be pretty sure they’ve found the right person. /[-d equivocating] [Syn. lie] >> equivocate  (ik WIV ik AYT) vi. mislead; hedge; deceive; be deliberately vague or ambiguous

Marge tried to eradicate the dandelions in her lawn./ It was not so easy to eradicate the nest of hornets that took up lodgings on the front porch. /[-d eradicating eradication n.] [Syn. exterminate] >> eradicate  (ir AD ik AYT) vt. 1. to tear out by the roots; uproot; 2. get rid of; wipe out; destroy

Anything that is continually rubbed against erodes. / Rain has eroded the rocks of Bryce Canyon Utah to make all the beautiful statuesque formations. / The Grand Canyon is the result of rock being eroded over millions of years by the Colorado River. /[-d eroding] [Syn. wear (away)] >> erode  (ir OHD) vt. 1. to wear away; eat into; disintegrate; 2. to cause to wear away; 3. to form by gradually wearing away

A moth’s erratic flight is one adaptation to its survival./ Billionaire Howard Hughes’s reclusive behavior during his final years can easily be called erratic. /[-ly adv.] >> erratic  (ir AT ik) adj. 1. without fixed course or purpose; irregular; random; meandering; 2. deviating from the usual course; eccentric; odd

The report of your beheading was apparently erroneous./ Erroneous information is commonly on the front page of supermarket tabloids. /[-ly adv.] >> erroneous  (ir OH nee uhs) adj. based on or containing error; mistaken; wrong

Everything we know about ancient Greek civilization is the result of archaeology and erudition. / Erudition in some form continues throughout life for any intellectually curious person. /[Syn. information] >> erudition  (ER yoo DISH in) n. learning acquired through scholarship (by read- ing and study)

The Native American medicine man was responsible for passing down the esoterica of his calling to the next generation. / Every religion has certain persons to whom are entrusted the esoterica of the group. >> esoterica  (ES oh TER ik uh) n. 1. things meant to be understood only by an elite few; 2. confidential things

Chinese is an especially difficult language for Occidentals to master./ This sentence is for Bill Bob and Marcia and especially for Suzanne./ Especially is not an especially unusual word/ you probably hear it every day—especially from TV news programs. >> especially  (es PESH uh lee) adj. particularly; mainly; to a great degree; unusually

Diana and Charles were espoused./ Dick and Jane will espouse at 1:30 P.M./ Consumer advisors espouse shopping for a car and for financing separately./ Teddy Roosevelt often espoused speaking softly and carrying a big stick. /[-d espousing] [Syn. advocate] >> espouse  (es POWZ) vt. 1. to take as a spouse; marry; 2. to take up, support, or advocate some cause, idea, etc.

International law is something that exists in essence although it is not codified./ Humor is the essence of satire and of satirical pieces./ Oddly a certain nastiness is the essence of satirists./ Vanilla extract contains all the essence of a vanilla bean’s flavor but none of the grittiness of the seeds. >> essence  (ES ins) n. 1. something existing; entity; 2. vital characteristic; intrinsic, fundamental nature; most important quality; 3. a substance that keeps (in concen- trated form) the flavor, fragrance, or other properties of the plant, food, etc. from which it is extracted

A happy wagging tail is essential to a golden retriever./ It is essential to bring your driver’s license when you go to cash a check. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. vital important crucial] >> essential  (is EN shil) adj. 1. of the intrinsic nature of something; basic; inher- ent; 2. necessary; requisite; indispensible

The sheriffs established law and order in the Old West./ Congress establishes the laws by which we live./ Johnny established his law office in New York City./ Rose and Dorothy established a lifelong friendship. /[-ed -ing -ment n.] [Syn. launch create] >> establish  (es TAB lish) vt. 1. to make stable; to make firm; 2. to permanently order, ordain, or enact (for example, a law); 3. to set up (a government, business, organization, etc.); found; institute; 4. to cause to happen or to be; bring about

Val esteemed Bert’s help in selecting colleges to apply to./ I esteem your aid in installing the storm door correctly to have been invaluable./ Do you hold your dog’s opinion of people in high esteem? /[-ed -ing] [Syn. appreciate admire] >> esteem  (es TEEM) vt. 1. to have great regard for; to value highly; 2. to hold to be; —n. favorable opinion; high regard; respect

The Geneva Conventions deal with the ethical treatment of prisoners of war./ Many consider the testing of cosmetics on animals to be less than ethical./ The legal profession’s ethical code calls for not divulging any communica- tion between client and attorney. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. principled] >> ethical  (ETH ik l) adj. 1. concerned with ethics or morality; of or conforming to moral standards; 2. conforming to the standards of a particular profession or group

An ethicist was consulted to help the hospital form a policy on treatment of those without medical insurance./ Ethicists are often consulted about genetic engineering projects. /[ethnician n.] [Syn. moralist] >> ethicist  (ETH is IST) n. someone devoted to ethical ideas; one very well versed in moral issues and considerations

Being of Ethiopian descent is an ethnicity./ Having a Lithuanian heritage is an ethnicity./ Speaking Spanish or English is a commonality of language but is not an ethnicity. >> ethnicity  (eth NIS i tee) n. classification of a cultural subgroup with a com- mon cultural heritage or nationality

It is customary for a eulogy to be given by one or more persons at a funeral service. / Traditionally any ill traits of the deceased are not mentioned during a eulogy. /[Syn. tribute] >> eulogy  (YOO li jee) n. a speech or writing in praise of a person who has recently died, or a project that has been killed

The “dearly departed” is a euphemism for the “dead person.” / Many people speak in euphemisms requiring the listeners to interpret what they are hearing. /[euphemistic adj. euphemistically adv.] >> euphemism  (YOO fi MIZ im) n. 1. a word or phrase that is less expressive sub- stituted for a more expressive one to lessen its impact (the remains rather than the corpse); 2. the use of such a word

The appraiser evaluated Kim’s oil painting as being worth between $1500 and $2000./ Jorge evaluated the parcel of land as being too small for raising cattle./ By solving the equation Millie evaluated x to be 45. /[-d evaluating evaluation n.] [Syn. estimate] >> evaluate  (ee VAL yoo AYT) vt. 1. to find the value or amount of; 2. to judge the worth or quality of something; appraise; 3. (math) to find the numerical value of

The evanescent mist soon began to dissipate from the heat of the sun./ The evanescent smoke from the cannon’s muzzle vanished within minutes. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. transient] >> evanescent  (EV in ES int) adj. tending to be transitory; having the tendency to pass or fade from sight; ephemeral

All things good or bad eventually come to an end./ A trip around the world will eventually bring you back to your starting point. /[eventual adj.] >> eventually  (ee VENT yoo i lee) adv. finally; in the end; ultimately

Juan’s momentary blurriness of vision was evidence of the eye problems that were to come./ Carrie’s eyewitness testimony was the evidence that made Eddie’s convic- tion almost certain./ Karl’s fingerprints on the machete were powerful evidence of his coconut poaching. /[Syn. proof] >> evidence  (EV id ins) n. 1. something that makes another thing easy to see; a sign; an indication; 2. something that proves (something else); grounds to believe that something is so

It is evident that you have no knowledge of how to raise mangoes./ That the window had not been cleaned in a long time was evident from a single glance at it. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. manifest] >> evident  (EV id int) adj. easily seen; clear; obvious; plain

The automobile accident was definitely evitable./ Getting your foot stepped upon by an elephant is a very evitable event. >> evitable  (EV it uh bl) adj. avoidable (Think about it; inevitable means unavoidable.)

A winning baseball team evolves as all the right players are assembled and become comfortable playing together. / Modern man is thought to have evolved from earlier species such as Cro-Magnon man. /[-d evolving] [Syn. unfold] >> evolve  (ee VOLV) vt., vi. 1. to develop by gradual change; unfold; 2. to change by evolution

Tweaking her only exacerbates her embarrassment./ Putting weight on your twisted ankle will exacerbate your discomfort./ Showing a hungry person pictures of food serves only to exacerbate his hunger. /[-d exacerbating] >> exacerbate  (eg ZAS ir bayt) vt. 1. to increase in intensity; to sharpen; aggravate; 2. to irritate or annoy; exaggerate

Flora’s inability to hit the high notes in the song led to her eventual feel- ing of exasperation./ Exasperation usually comes from considerable effort met with little or no success. >> exasperation  (eg ZAS pir ay shun) n. great irritation or annoyance; vexation

Everyone without exception is responsible for washing his or her own dishes./ The No Parking signs are applicable to almost every vehicle but a police car is an exception./ The senator took exception to the ruling of the chairman and raised a point of order. >> exception  (ek SEP shin) n. 1. an omission; a leaving out; 2. a situation or case in which a rule, order, etc. is not applicable; 3. an objection or disagreement

In subduing the perpetrator many felt that the police had used excessive force./ Excessive anything is always too much./ Americans are generally overweight because we consume excessive quanti- ties of food. /[excessively adv.] [Syn. inordinate extravagant] >> excessive  (eks ES iv) adj. too much; too great; inappropriately large

The doorman at the entrance to the club is there to exclude all but mem- bers and their honored guests./ The bride-to-be was excluded from the group planning her bridal shower./ Victor excluded Emanuel by giving him the boot. /[-d excluding] [Syn. eliminate] >> exclude  (eks KLOOD) vt. 1. to keep out; shut out; refuse to admit; bar; 2. to expel; to put out

One’s spouse shoud be one’s exclusive soul mate./ The golf course is for the exclusive use of its members./ Sandy Hook’s beach is for the exclusive use of people named Sandy./ The country club’s exclusive membership committee refuses to accept an application from anyone whose net worth is less than $10000000. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> exclusive  (eks KLOO siv) adv. 1. eliminating all others; shutting out everyone else; 2. keeping out all but those indicated or specified; 3. not shared; sole right to; 4. snobbish

Mr. Brown excoriated his class for having misbehaved on the class trip. / Jack excoriated his right elbow when he slid into second base. /[-d excoriating excoriation n.] >> excoriate  (iks KAW ree ayt) vt. 1. to harshly denounce; 2. to rub off the skin of; to abrade; to flay

The fact that Inez was shown to have been out of town caused the judge to exculpate her in the case of the missing bananas. / Mark was exculpated of the charges against him. /[-d exculpating exculpation n.] [Syn. to clear (of blame)] >> exculpate  (EKS kil PAYT) vt. to prove blameless; to declare guiltless

Verifying Laura’s alibi served to exculpate her from the potential charges./ The DNA results had absolutely nothing to do with exculpating the dog in the case of the disappearing sandwich. /[-d exculpating exculpatory adj.] [Syn. absolve] >> exculpate  (EKS kul payt) vt. 1. to prove to be without blame or guilt; 2. to declare to be guiltless

The Circle Line specializes in waterborne excursions around the island of Manhattan./ A Saturday night stay-over and traveling on Tuesday or Thursday are usual conditions of special rates for airline excursions./ An excursion to the Pyramids was part of the Egyptian group package./ A two-day excursion to Paris was a part of our London trip. >> excursion  (eks KUR zhin) n. 1. a short trip with intent to return relatively soon to the point of origin; a pleasure jaunt; 2. a round trip on a train, plane, etc., usually with certain provisions, sold at bargain rates; 3. a group taking such a trip; 4. a digression from the main point, journey, etc.

Roxane’s behavior at the restaurant was exemplary./ The judge’s severe punishment was an exemplary one and served as a notice to potential wrongdoers./ Charlie brought an exemplary brownie so that the custom baker would know what he wanted made. /[exemplarily adv. exemplariness n.] >> exemplary  (eg ZEM plir ee) adj. 1. (from example) a model; worthy of imitation; 2. serving as a warning; 3. acting as a sample, illustration, etc.

Gloria’s behavior at the solemn memorial service exemplifies the proper way to behave at such an event./ Peter’s essay should exemplify what Mrs. Jones is looking for in a book report. /[exemplified -ing] >> exemplify  (eg ZEM pli FY) vt. 1. to serve as an example; 2. to show by example

Rhea exhibited her school artwork for her parents to admire./ The Guggenheim collection is exhibited daily in a museum designed by Frank Lloyd Wright./ Lawrence is exhibiting a good deal of irritation with the automobile cleaning service. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. prove reveal] >> exhibit  (eg ZIB it) vt. 1. to show or display; 2. to open to public view; 3. to give evidence of

It is exigent that Diane return the poorly fitting blouse before the time allowed expires. / As Melissa found out raising three small children at the same time is an exigent task. /[-ly adv. exigency n.] [Syn. urgent] >> exigent  (EKS i jint) adj. 1. needing immediate looking into; urgent; critical; 2. needing more than reasonable attention; demanding

According to DesCartes one’s existence is proven by the fact that one thinks—at least I think it is./ The existence of a circus at Madison Square Garden is made evident by the odors that meet the noses of passersby./ Homeless persons live a rather wretched existence. >> existence  (eg ZIST ins) n. 1. state of being; act of living; 2. taking place; occurrence; 3. manner of living

Would you say that William Randolph Hearst lived a rather exorbitant lifestyle at San Simeon?/ Some (myself included) consider $8 movie theater tickets to be exorbitant. >> exorbitant  (eg ZAWR bit int) adj. above and beyond what is reasonable; immodest; excessive; extravagant

Gizmo the dog sits by the front door each evening at 6:00 expecting his master at any moment./ After retrieving the customer’s car the valet held out his hand as if a gratuity was expected./ Diane expects to have a late supper after the theater. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. anticipate presume] >> expect  (eks PEKT) vt. 1. to look for or look forward to as likely to happen or appear; 2. to look for as if it were due; 3. to suppose

Preheating the oven will expedite dinner after mom brings the frozen pizza home./ Paying for overnight delivery will expedite your receiving the new software package. /[-d expediting] >> expedite  (EKS pid YT) vt. 1. to speed up, hasten, or facilitate something’s hap- pening; 2. to do quickly

After her third child Melissa had ambivalent feelings surrounding the experience of childbirth./ About 20 million people experienced the Northeast electrical blackout of 1977./ Karen’s total experience through the first 53 years of her life made her an optimistic person./ David’s urban life experiences gave him a cynical outlook./ Try to experience as many new things as possible. /[-d experiencing] >> experience  (eks PIR ee ens) n. 1. having had personal involvement in events as they occurred; 2. anything lived through or observed; 3. all that has occurred in one’s life to that point in time being considered; 4. the effect of everything that has happened to a person or that the person has observed —vt. to personally encounter; to undergo

It took many experiments to find a vaccine for polio./ Daphne’s experiments with different versions of an uppercase D took place over several months before she settled on a signature that she was pleased with./ Jake’s mom experimented with many combinations of peanut butter and jelly before finding one he liked. /[-al adj. -ally adv.] [Syn. trial] >> experiment  (eks PER im int) n. 1. a test to find something not yet known or to confirm or demonstrate something; 2. the performing of such tests —vi. to do experiments

Jason demonstrated considerable expertise in building the deck in back of his house./ Uncle Bob’s botched repair job on the porch door attested to his complete lack of expertise. >> expertise  (EKS poer TEEZ) n. the knowledge and capability of one who is highly skilled and trained in some particular field

Helene left explicit instructions on how the cat and houseplants were to be cared for during her absence./ The store’s return policy is explicit about no refunds and is clearly posted behind the counter in plain view. /[-ly* adv.] [Syn. distinct/ Ant. vague ambiguous] >> explicit  (eks PLIS it) adj. 1. distinctly and clearly stated; 2. plain and easily understandable or observable

Sweatshops in the garment industry are largely exploitation of undocument- ed workers./ The United Farmworkers union was built to stop the exploitation of Mexican and other migratory workers by large corporate farmers. >> exploitation  (EKS ploy TAY shin) n. 1. a using of something or someone in an unethical manner for one’s own benefit or profit; 2. a use of the labor of others for profit without appropriate compensation

Express a cut lemon to get juice from it./ Norma has difficulty expressing herself in writing./ Don chose tonight to express his love of key lime pie./ Beethoven expresses great joy in his ninth symphony./ Steven gave Leonard express permission to use his tools./ Express regulations govern the registration of handguns./ The express train skips many of the local stops. /[-ed -ing -ly adv.] [Syn. convey utter] >> express  (eks PRES) vt. 1. to squeeze out; 2. to put into words; state; 3. to reveal; to show; 4. to represent in artistic or musical form —adj. 1. explicit as opposed to implied; 2. made for a special purpose; 3. high speed

Expression of grape juice from grapes is now accomplished by giant machines rather than peasant feet./ Evan wrote an expression of his thanks for the gift./ Picasso’s Guernica was an expression of the horrors brought on by the Spanish Civil War./ An expression of discomfort was evident from the hesitating mannerisms characterizing Jill’s voice./ “Another day another dollar” is just an expression./ Evelyn’s expression went from none to a big smile. >> expression  (eks PRE shuhn) n. 1. a pressing out, like making juice; 2. putting something into words; 3. a representation in art, in music, etc.; 4. a manner of speak- ing; intonation; 5. an idiomatic phrase; 6. a facial contortion or showing of emotion

Some are hopeful that finding Nessie the so-called Loch Ness monster will prove sea monsters extant. / The Cascade Mountains of Washington contain many extant volcanoes that are for the most part dormant. /[-ly adv.] >> extant  (EKS tint) adj. still existing; not lost or destroyed; not extinct

The extent of the cat’s run was about the length of a football field./ The extent of the pathologist’s range of interest extends beyond microbes into the realm of human behavior./ The Sahara Desert is of considerable extent. >> extent  (eks TENT) adj. 1. length; width; distance covered; 2. the scope or limits of anything; 3. a vast area

Elliot believed that his having felt threatened by the rabbit should extenuate his guilt at having slammed the door on it./ Caroline believed that Jack would be less upset about her lateness after he had heard the extenuating circumstances. /[-d extenuating* vt. adj. extenuation n.] >> extenuate  (eks TEN yoo AYT) vt. to lessen or seem to lessen in seriousness by excuses

Many volcanoes although they have not erupted in generations are con- sidered dormant rather than extinct./ The Tyrannosaurus rex is definitely extinct./ The saber-toothed tiger is an extinct feline ancestor. /[Syn. vanished] >> extinct  (eks TEENKT) adj. 1. dead; no longer active; 2. no longer in existence

Laurie could not help but extol the flavor of her mother’s fudge brownies./ Jonathan’s jumping into the lake and rescuing the toddler was extolled on all the evening news shows. /[-led -ling] [Syn. praise] >> extol  (eks TOHL) vt. to sing the praises of; laud

When discussing whether something is or is not the right thing to do the amount you’re willing to pay to have it done is extraneous. / The phases of the moon are extraneous to the seasons on earth. / When playing Chopin’s piano sonatas the presence of a flute player is extraneous. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. extrinsic] >> extraneous  (eks TRAY nee is) adj. 1. not pertinent or relevant; 2. coming from the outside; 3. not properly or truly belonging

Ali’s 15-karat diamond earrings could certainly be called extravagant./ Most of those present at Thursday’s PTA meeting felt it was extravagant of Principal Smith to have worn a tuxedo./ It was very extravagant of the Department of Defense to have spent $300 on a hammer. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. profligate profuse] >> extravagant  (eks TRAV i gint) adj. 1. excessive; beyond reasonable boundaries; 2. too fancy; 3. too expensive

An egg yolk is easily extricable from a shelled egg—especially after the egg has been hard-boiled. / The painter’s having failed to deliver on his part of the contract made Harvey extricable from it. / A single rubber band is usually quite extricable from a ball of rubber bands. /[extricably adv.] [Syn. escapable] >> extricable  (EKS tri ki bil) adj. able to get out from; able to separate from; capa- ble of being disentangled

The boat’s skipper fought hard to extricate it from the path of the oncoming storm./ The activist extricated the beaver from the trap./ The dolphin wriggled in its struggle to extricate itself from the commercial fishing net. /[-d extricating extrication n. extricable adj.] >> extricate  (EKS trik AYT) vt. to set free; to release; to disentangle

Francesco is quite an extrovert for a six-year-old and spends much of his time thinking up ways to get those around him to laugh. / Extroverts are generally a good deal more animated than introverts—their opposites. /[extroversion n.] [Syn. outgoing] >> extrovert  (EKS tra VOERT) n. an outgoing person; one who directs her atten- tion away from herself and toward others

The fabrication was completed on-site and would serve as office space for the workers./ The new cabinets were the fabrication of a fine craftsman./ Archie’s story about having been asked out by Veronica was a fabrication. >> fabrication  (FAB ri KAY shuhn) n. 1. something being constructed or manufac- tured; 2. a made-up thing, especially a falsehood; false excuse; lie

Being facetious is practically a full-time job for a punster. / Vicki told Bill “Don’t think I’m being facetious when I tell you you’re my best friend but I am.” /[-ly adv.] [Syn. witty] >> facetious  (fis EE shis) adj. joking or trying to be funny (especially at an inap- propriate time)

The hardened tips on shoelaces greatly facilitate lacing shoes and boots. / Ramps being installed on most street corners facilitate getting on and off sidewalks for the handicapped. /[-d facilitating] [Syn. ease] >> facilitate  (fa SIL i TAYT) vt. to make possible, or to make it easier to do something

When the school PTA met one faction favored holding a Christmas party while another was dead set against it. / Because it is a part of a larger whole one can properly say that a faction is a fraction of a group. >> faction  (FAK shin) n. inside a larger organization, a group of people smaller than the whole working toward or aiming at one specific goal; partisan

Weather is one factor that might cause the postponement of tomorrow’s picnic./ Multiplying the factors 2 and 6 always produces 12./ When dealing with a trinomial of the form ax2 + bx + c it always pays to try to factor out an a. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. element agent] >> factor  (FAK tir) n. 1. any of the conditions, circumstances, etc. that bring on a certain result; 2. (math) any of two or more quantities that are multiplied together to form a product —vt. (math) to resolve an expression into its component factors

Your logic in this matter is fallacious./ It is fallacious to think that putting insect-repelling candles by the edge of a marsh will prevent mosquito bites. /[-ly adv.] >> fallacious  (fuh LAY shus) adj. 1. containing an error; mistaken; 2. misleading or deceptive

One person is too fallible to be trusted to make all the important decisions./ A pencil-and-paper calculation of a difficult problem is likely to be more fallible than one made using a calculator or computer. /[fallibly adv. fallibility n.] >> fallible  (FAL i bl) adj. 1. capable of making a mistake; 2. apt to be erroneous or less than accurate

A falsification of the account of the Battle of the Little Bighorn had Custer’s forces winning the day./ Some people are mistakenly spending time in prison for crimes they did not commit because of falsifications on the part of certain witnesses. /[falsity n. falsify vi.] >> falsification  (FAWL si fi KAY shun) n. 1. a deliberately misleading account; misrepresentation; 2. a fraudulently altered record; something proven untrue

Keep fathoming the water beneath our keel./ You must make sure that you completely fathom the directions before you proceed./ The fathom was originally the measure from middle fingertip to middle fin- gertip of a man with his arms spread wide. /[-ed -ing] >> fathom  (FA thim) vt. 1. to measure the depth (of water); 2. to understand com- pletely; comprehend —n. a unit of length equal to 6 feet, primarily used to measure water depth

It is not always feasible to change one’s automobile oil at the specified intervals./ We’ll need a study to decide whether putting a skating rink into West Park is feasible. /[feasibly adv. feasability n.] [Syn. possible] >> feasible  (FEE zi bl) adj. 1. doable; practicable; 2. reasonable; suitable

Mary was feckless about bringing her umbrella to work and she paid for it when the skies opened up. >> feckless  (FEK lis) adj. 1. weak; ineffective; 2. careless; irresponsible

A tuxedo is a felicitous outfit to wear to a formal wedding./ Melissa is careful to be felicitous in all her public doings./ Ariel writes in a felicitous manner. /[-ly adv.] >> felicitous  (fel IS it is) adj. 1. appropriate; used in a way suitable to the occasion; 2. having the knack to pleasingly express

Petty larceny is a misdemeanor while grand larceny is a felony and one who commits it is a felon. / The person who wrote the sentence “The boy felon his head” is not neces- sarily a felon. / Most prison residents in the United States are felons. >> felon  (FEL in) n. a person guilty of a major crime (guilty of a felony, rather than a misdemeanor); a criminal

Rachel’s proclaiming that she was having a heart attack was pure fiction meant to attract attention./ The monster that lives in your closet is no fiction!/ The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was a work of fiction that came from the pen of Washington Irving. >> fiction  (FIK shin) n. 1. something made up or feigned; 2. something imagined; 3. a literary story using imaginary characters and/or events

When two people get married each should expect the full fidelity of the other. / High fidelity is so named because it tries to be faithful to the sound of the concert hall. / When one reads a news story it is only right to expect the reporter to show fidelity to the actual facts. /[Syn. allegiance] >> fidelity  (fi DEL i tee) n. 1. faithfulness to one’s obligations; loyalty; 2. faithful to the story, the truth, the actual sound, and so on

Some artists have figurative talents while others do better with landscapes./ When you say that he’s caused you a million heartaches we presume that you mean that in a figurative sense. /[figuratively adv.] >> figurative  (FIG yoer uh TIV) adj. 1. representing by likeness, picture, or figure; 2. having to do with drawing, painting, etc.; 3. not in the usual or exact sense; analagous to; metaphoric

A corporation’s chief financial officer is responsible for overseeing all income and expenditures./ One unavoidable financial report that we all must deal with each year is our income tax return. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. pecuniary fiscal] >> financial  (fy NAN shuhl) adj. 1. dealing with money resources, income, etc.; 2. concerning managing money, credit, etc.

Walter handled the customer’s complaint with finesse. / Martha tried to finesse her way around the requirement that she had to have a driving permit before she could get her license. / It is a common play in a game of bridge for a player to finesse a lower value card past an opponent without losing it. /[-d finessing] >> finesse  (fin ES) n. 1. the ability to handle delicate situations with skill; 2. cun- ning; artfulness; craftiness —vt. 1. to bypass or evade an issue; 2. to manage or deal with using finesse

Keep the firebrands well isolated in the fireplace so that they don’t ignite flammable curtains or furniture./ Samuel Adams was a real firebrand always ready to incite the crowd. >> firebrand  (FYR brand) n. 1. a piece of burning wood; 2. a person who stirs up a revolution, strife, or trouble

Some cells reproduce asexually by binary fission. / A fission of the nucleus of an atom releases considerable energy and is the principle on which the atomic bomb was based. /[-able adj.] >> fission  (FISH in) n. a splitting apart; division into two or more parts

Fissures in mountains have been responsible for swallowing up more than one climber. / Glaciers usually fracture along fissures causing huge icebergs to break off. /[Syn. crack] >> fissure  (FISH yer) n. 1. a long, narrow, deep crack; 2. a dividing or breaking into parts

Someone who cannot fixate on an object that is distant is said to be myopic or nearsighted. / When one person fixates on another person so that the attachment becomes excessive it is time for a psychological expert to be brought in for assistance. /[-d fixating] >> fixate  (FIX ayt) vt., vi. 1. to focus (the eyes) on an object; 2. to form a persistent attachment to some person or object

When a flower does not get enough water it tends to flag but perks up again if watered in time. / After two hours watching the races Ida’s interest began to flag. /[-ged -ging] >> flag  (FLAG) vi. 1 to become limp; droop; 2. to lose energy; wane; grow weak or tired

Laws now restrict the flammability of children’s pajamas./ What is now known as flammable used to be “inflammable” or how readily something would go up in flame. /[flammability n.] >> flammable  (FLA muh bl) adj. easily burnable; quick to catch fire; readily ignited

The dents in the fender were flaws in the automobile’s appearance. / A diamond that does not contain a flaw is a very rare (read that expensive) thing. / Rubbed off patches of gold finish flawed the watchband’s appearance. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. defect] >> flaw  (FLAW) n. 1 a blemish or defect that spoils something’s appearance; 2. a defect, fault, or error —vi., vt. to make faulty

Some of the most effective stand-up comedians have built a carreer on flippancy./ One of the late Hennie Youngman’s most famous flippancies was the line“Now take my wife—please!” /[flippancies pl.] >> flippancy  (FLIP uhn see) n. 1. the quality or state of being frivolous and disre- spectful; sauciness; impertinence; 2. such a remark

The flora of the tropics are varied and colorful. / The further north one goes the more bountiful the varieties of flora and fauna become as long as you are south of the equator. >> flora  (FLOR uh) n. the plants of a region, as distinguished from the animal life (fauna)

After three hours in the wind Anna’s cheeks were florid./ Cadenzas are florid passages in solo instrument parts that allow the soloist to show his or her virtuosity./ Many homes become florid with holiday lights in December. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. ornate] >> florid  (FLAW rid) adj. 1. pink; rosy or ruddy in complexion; 2. highly showy; decorated

Democracy which had flourished for the citizens of ancient Athens essen- tially disappeared until the end of the eighteeth century. / The actor bowed and flourished his hat in acknowledgement of the audi- ence’s applause. / Each time the president speaks at a formal event a trumpet flourish pre- cedes his appearance/ interestingly that piece is known as “Ruffles and Flourishes.” /[-ed -ing] [Syn. prosper] >> flourish  (FLOER ish) vi. to grow vigorously; succeed; thrive; prosper —vt. to wave a sword, hand, or hat in the air as a mark of; brandish —n. a musical fanfare

Teenage boys are infamous for flouting their father figures’ authority./ Those Texans and Texacanos holed up in the Alamo flouted General Santa Ana’s demands for surrender. /[-ed -ing] >> flout  (FLOWT) vt. 1 to show contempt or scorn for; mock; 2. to disregard open- ly; to defy; ignore

The ocean’s tides fluctuate with the effects from the pull of the sun and the moon. / The heights of the threads in a shag rug fluctuate often in a discernible pattern. / Jan fluctuates the size of her weekly bank deposit according to the amount of tips she receives that week. /[-d fluctuating] [Syn. vary] >> fluctuate  (FLUHK tyoo ayt) vi. 1. to move back and forth or up and down; 2. to be continuously varying —vt. to cause to fluctuate

The horse’s motion was fluent as he unhesitatingly galloped down the home stretch./ Quentin is fluent in French but he should be because his parents were born there and speak it at home./ To get along in today’s world you need to be fluent in technical terms like WYSIWYG. /[-ly adv.] >> fluent  (FLOO int) adj. 1. flowing or smoothly moving along; 2. able to read or write smoothly and clearly in a foreign language or technical terminology

Fashion is always in a state of flux. / Public opinion goes through flux along with the economy. / Before soldering copper pipes together both surfaces to be joined must be roughed up and coated with flux paste. >> flux  (FLUHKS) n. 1. a continuous moving or change; 2. a material that keeps metals from oxidizing when they are soldered

The focus of a lens or mirror is also better known as the focal point./ An image seen through a lens can be brought into focus by moving the lens the object or the person viewing it./ The person who is the focus of all the other people’s attention at a party might be the life or death of the party./ When moving from a dark room to a well-lit room it takes the eyes a moment or so to focus and adjust to the difference./ Most adjustable cameras use a ring to focus the lens and make your viewfinder image sharp and clear./ Sometimes the only way to get a job done is to focus on one task at a time. /[-ed -ing] >> focus  (FOH kus) n. 1. the point at which waves (light, heat, sound) come together, or from which they seem to be generated; 2. an adjustmant of a lens to create a sharp image; 3. any center of attention, activity, etc. —vt. 1. to bring into clarity; 2. to adjust the focal length of a lens, the eye, etc. to make clear; 3. to con- centrate on one thing

Being easily tempted is a foible many of us share. / One of Alessandra’s foibles is an inability to resist fresh whipped cream. /[Syn. fault]  >> foible  (FOY bil) n. a small weakness of character; a small frailty

One of President Eisenhower’s favorite words was foment as he talked of North Korea’s fomenting a crisis by invading South Korea. / It has been often debated whether the riots at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago were fomented by the demonstrators or by the Chicago Police Department. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. incite] >> foment  (foh MENT) vt. to stir up (trouble); incite (to riot); instigate

Sid’s rushing into the burning building to rescue the cat was both heroic and foolhardy./ Sometimes foolhardy acts are rewarded by thankful people/ most times they’re rewarded by disaster. >> foolhardy  (FOOL hahr dee) adj. rash; reckless; bold or daring in a foolish way

When Nan and Suzie stepped into the haunted house they each had a feeling of foreboding./ Audrey’s foreboding caused her to exit the tunnel just moments before it collapsed. >> foreboding  (fawr BOH ding) n. a prescience or portent, especially of something bad to come

The bank’s attorneys took foreclosure action because the borrower was in arrears on the monthly payments. / Foreclosure auctions in which the foreclosed-on properties are sold to repay the mortgage holder can be a source of real estate bargains. /[(to) foreclose vi. vt.] >> foreclosure  (fawr KLOH zhyoer) n. the legal procedure for a mortgager to gain possession of a property when the mortgagee has failed to keep up payments so that the property can be sold to cover the former’s expenses

Invading microbes are usually attacked by the body’s defenses when their foreignness is recognized. / Westerners’ ears have difficulty with the foreignness of Asian music. /[Syn. extrinsicness] >> foreignness  (FAWR in nes) n. the quality of not naturally belonging; having the quality of being an outsider; strangeness

Paying the overdue mortgage forestalled the bank’s foreclosing on Ms. Green’s home. / Mr. Black obtained a restraining order to forestall his neighbor’s cutting down the cherry tree. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. prevent] >> forestall  (for STAWL) vt. 1. to prevent by performing some action in advance; 2. to hinder; obstruct

Elmyr de Hory sold hundreds of pieces of art forgery to the galleries and museums of the world./ His story was originally told in the book Fake by Clifford Irving who later wrote the forgery of Howard Hughes’s autobiography./ The Secret Service’s main task is to stop forgery of U.S. currency. /[forgeries pl.] >> forgery  (FAWR joer ee) n. the act of imitating artworks, money, signatures, etc. with the intent to deceive

Being marooned on a desert island would tend to make one feel forlorn./ Left standing at the altar Harold heaved a forlorn sigh. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> forlorn  (fawr LAWRN) adj. 1. deserted or abandoned; 2. unhappy and lonely

Gerald’s threat to sue was a formidable one as far as Bob was concerned. / Audrey found the obstacle course a formidable barrier. / Vance’s performance on the SAT was formidable indeed. /[formidably adv.] >> formidable  (FAWR mid uh bil) adj. 1. causing fear; 2. difficult to overcome; 3. impressive

Having decided to forsake his 1971 Chevy Gerald left it by the side of the road in Timbuktu./ It behooves anyone who has started smoking cigarettes to forsake that prac- tice forthwith./ Janet vowed to forsake her life of crime and to become a doer of good deeds. /[forsook -n forsaking] >> forsake  (fawr SAYK) vt. 1. to give up; abandon (a habit, ideal, etc.); 2. to leave; renounce

Although the fire’s consumption of their home was a great loss to Malcom and his family they withstood it with fortitude./ It is not easy to display fortitude in the face of tragedy but by definition that’s the only way one can do it. /[Syn. grit courage] >> fortitude  (FAWR ti tood) n. the strength to withstand pain and misfortune calmly and patiently

Bill’s running into his future employer at the ballpark was just a fortuitous occurrence. / How fortuitous that Hillary won the state lottery. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. accidental] >> fortuitous  (for TOO i tus) adj. 1. occurring by accident; by chance; 2. lucky; by good fortune

Roger was fortunate to have taken the plane just before the flight that crashed./ Sarah was very fortunate when she picked the winning lottery numbers. /[fortunately adv.] >> fortunate  (FAWR tyoo nit) adj. 1. lucky; having good luck; having good fortune; 2. favorable; auspicious

The Roman forum was a marketplace in which ideas as well as goods were exchanged. / A court of law serves as a forum in which justice is dispensed (not to be confused with “dispensed with”). / Often a televised debate serves as a forum for political candidates to present their ideas and to discuss their plans should they be elected. >> forum  (FOR uhm) n. 1. the ancient Roman open marketplace; 2. a court of law; tribunal; 3. an opportunity for open discussion

Mickey fostered the colt as if it were his own child./ Dairy farmers foster a national campaign to promote milk drinking./ Dorothy and Al are foster parents to three foster children. /[-ed -ing] >> foster  (FAW stir) vt. 1. to carefully raise; rear; 2. to nourish; help grow or develop; promote —adj. being treated as a certain member of the family, although neither related nor adopted

The police had to come break up the fracas at the tavern last night. / When Mr. and Mrs. Unger get into one of their frequent shouting contests the fracas disturbs the whole neighborhood. >> fracas  (FRAY kuhs) n. a noisy fight or loud quarrel; a brawl

The 2003 invasion of Iraq helped to fracture the Franco-American alliance./ Alice’s shriek fractured the near-complete silence./ Matt fractured his ulna playing ice hockey./ The doctor set Mike’s fractured finger with a splint./ Flint knives were made by hitting two pieces of flint together in hopes of fracturing a chip off one to form the blade. /[-d fracturing] [Syn. break] >> fracture  (FRAK chir) vt. 1. to break or split; to crack; 2. to disrupt; to break up -n. 1. a break or cleft; 2. a broken-off part; fragment; 3. a broken bone

The nations of the Americas value their freedom from their former European colonizers./ Police cars on duty enjoy freedom from the parking regulations in the city./ Freedom of speech and freedom of religion are just two of the rights Americans are supposed to enjoy. >> freedom  (FREE dim) n. 1. the state or quality of being free from the control of other persons, or certain laws or regulations; 2. a right or privilege

When something vibrates between about 30 and 16000 times per second its frequency is within the range of normal human hearing./ Supersonic frequencies are above the range of human hearing while sub- sonic frequencies are below that range./ The frequency of car horn honkings in Amanda’s neighborhood is about five per hour. >> frequency  (FREE kwin see) n. 1. the number of times something is repeated within a certain specified time frame; number of oscillations per time period; 2. a repeated or repeating occurrence

A series of high-relief sculptures forms a frieze decorating a fireplace mantle at the Vanderbilt home. >> frieze  (FREEZ) n. a series of decorations, painted or sculpted, usually in a hori- zontal band

Frugal shoppers consider house brands when buying food./ Cars with good gas mileage are built with the frugal in mind./ Frugal watches tell time as well as those in gold cases. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] [Syn. thrifty] >> frugal  (FROO gil) adj. 1. economical; thrifty; not wasteful; 2. inexpensive; not costly

Burglar alarms are designed to frustrate those who would hope to break and enter without detection./ The large number of false alarms from automotive burglar alarms could frustrate the reason they were installed./ Destroyers and antisubmarine bombers frustrated the U-boat captains of Germany’s Kriegsmarine. /[-d frustrating frustration n.] [Syn. thwart baffle foil] >> frustrate  (FRUH strayt) vt. 1. to cause to not have an effect; nullify; 2. to block; to prevent from attaining an objective

Fred’s bicycle functions just the way a bicycle should./ The doorman functions as both greeter and gatekeeper./ It is the function of a bottle opener to (duh!) open bottles./ When jacking up a car for a tire change a brick or block of wood should function as a cross block for its diagonally opposite tire./ Joanne’s function at the office is public relations./ In graphing an algebraic function or equation the value of the dependent variable y changes with the value of the independent variable x. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. capacity use] >> function  (FUHNK shin) vi. 1. to act in the usual or expected way; 2. to serve or be used (as) —n. 1. the usual action or use of something; 2. a special use or action of something; 3. one’s job; 4. something that depends on and changes with some- thing else

A server in the cafeteria is a functionary as is a janitor. / The keeper of public records is a functionary whose function is obviously keeping public records. >> functionary  (FUNK shin er ee) n. a person who performs a certain function, especially an official

The fundamental rights of all humans are the rights to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness./ The new law makes fundamental changes in the tax rates./ The fundamental principle of America is that all men are created equal./ The fundamentals of safe operation of the tool are in the owners’ manual./ Getting a license is a fundamental of driving an automobile. /[-ly adv.] >> fundamental  (FUHN di MENT il) adj. 1. basic; at the root of; essential; 2. radical; 3. chief; most important —n. 1. a principle, theory, etc.; 2. an essential

Welding is a practical form of fusion and is used to join the frames of cars and aircraft to their skins. / In times of war it has been customary for a fusion of the political parties to occur so that the nation acts as one. / It is the aim of scientists to use nuclear energy formed by fusion (the principle of the H-bomb) for peaceful purposes. >> fusion  (FYOO zhin) n. 1. joining by melting together; fusing; 2. a joining as if by melting together (for example, two factions of a political party); 3. nuclear fusion

Mr. Jones gainsays any responsibility for the damage to Miss Wright’s automobile. / “I hate to gainsay your story” Paul said “but it didn’t happen like that. / The loyal opposition gainsayed every attempt to get the new budget bill through Parliament. /[gainsaid -ing] [Syn. deny] >> gainsay  (gayn SAY or GAYN say) vt. 1. to deny; 2. to contradict; 3. to oppose

There was a gargantuan traffic jam at the in-bound George Washington Bridge. >> gargantuan  (gahr GAN tyoo uhn) adj. huge; gigantic (from Rabelais’s 1552 satire, Gargantua and Pantagruel)

The outfit she chose with the hot pink top and the chartreuse bottom can only be described as garish./ The decorations were a garish blend of Peter Max Andy Warhol and Dollywood with a liberal sprinkling of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. /[-ly adv.] >> garish  (GAI rish) adj. 1. very showy; very bright and gaudy; 2. showily dressed, written, or decorated

The garrison at Fort McHenry withstood bombardment by the British dur- ing the War of 1812 while Francis Scott Key wrote the “Star-Spangled Banner.” / During the Vietnam War garrisons were established at so-called strategic hamlets. / During the Revolutionary War the British garrisoned troops in the homes of the colonists. >> garrison  (GAR is uhn) n. 1. troops stationed in a fort; 2. the entire fortified place including troops and weapons —vt. to station troops in a place for its defense

Teenaged girls tend to be more garrulous than their male counterparts. / Most company sales meetings are dominated by garrulous persons who love to hear themselves speak. /[-ness n.] [Syn. loquacious talkative] >> garrulous  (GAER yoo lis) adj. talkative; talking too much about generally insignificant things

Gloria’s genealogy was spread out on the dining room table./ Rick could trace his genealogy back to late-nineteenth-century Russia but no farther back than that. /[geneological adj. genealogically adv.] >> genealogy  (JEE nee AH li jee) n. 1. a chart showing the ancestry of a person or family; 2. the study of family descent

It is easy to generalize about the benefits of voting for one over the other but a lot harder to get down to specifics./ Most politicians find it easier to generalize than to take a fast stand for which they might later be called to task./ Newton generalized from the things he observed every day to ultimately develop his laws of motion./ The local custom of buttering one’s plate and then rubbing bread on it is unlikely to generalize to the nation at large. /[-d generalizing generalization n.] >> generalize  (JEN er il YZ) vt. to put into nonspecific terms; to infer from —vi. 1. to talk in generalities; 2. to create principles from known events; 3. to spread

The generation of electricity is a high priority for western states which are growing in population density./ Henry VIII’s desire for the generation of a male heir was the main reason the Church of England separated from Rome./ Fruit flies are much better subjects for studying genetics than humans because there can be a new generation every few days./ If you were born after 1970 you are part of the computer generation. >> generation  (JEN er AY shun) n. 1. the act of producing something; 2. the spe- cific act of producing offspring; procreation; 3. a single stage in the life cycle of a species; time between birth and procreation (in humans about 25 years); 4. a group of people born around the same time period

As branches of biology go genetics is a rather young science but one that has yielded great returns./ DNA research and identification is only one of the benefits brought about by genetics./ Look at parent and child next to one another and often the common genetics are obvious. >> genetics  (jen ET iks) adj. 1. the branch of science that deals with heredity; 2. the traits of an individual, group, or type

Henry James was an artist of the literary genre. / The Star Wars trilogy gave birth to the genre of big-budget sci-fi films. >> genre  (ZHAHN ruh) n. a kind or type, like literature, music, works of art, and so on —adj. designating a class of film, book, or the like by its subject matter—for example, science fiction, comedy

Old Faithful in Yellowstone Park is probably the best-known geyser in the world. / Giant Grotto Fountain Castle and Crested Pool are some other geysers in Yellowstone. >> geyser  (GY zoer) n. a hot spring from which sprays of steam and or boiling water gush into the air at intervals of time

The gist of the thing is the crux of the matter and that just about says it all. / Frank did not understand everything the lecturer was saying about calcu- lating the area under a curve but he did get the gist of it. / Take two hydrogen molecules and one oxygen molecule and you have the gist of water. /[Syn. essence] >> gist  (JIST) n. the main point or essence of an argument, article, and so on

The surface of Antarctica is quite glacial in texture except where it is snow covered./ Many mountain streams of today are of glacial production./ Brrr! The weather outside is glacial in feel./ Annette froze Hiram with a glacial glare./ William had such a fear of calculus that his progress in the subject could only be described as glacial. /[-ly adv.] >> glacial  (GLAY shil) adj. 1. of or like ice; of or like glaciers; 2. produced by a glacier or during a glacial age; 3. freezing; very cold; 4. unfriendly; 5. very, very slow, like the progress of a glacier

Boxers are often referred to as gloved gladiators of the ring. / The more traditional image of a gladiator is of a man in shorts and leather armor carrying a shield in one hand and a broad sword in the other. >> gladiator  (GLA dee AYT oer) n. 1. any person involved in a public conflict or fight; 2. a swordsman of ancient Rome who fought for the entertainment of the public (not necessarily voluntarily)

While descending the slopes of Everest Hillary welcomed every glissade he had the chance to take./ Ballerinas frequently do glissades when not on point (on their toes). >> glissade  (gli SAHD) n. 1. a mountain climber’s deliberate slide down a snow- covered hill; 2. a gliding ballet step

The glutton consumed such mass quantities of food that his dining com- panion feared that he might explode./ Although Blossom had rejected his advances seven times before being a glutton for punishment Karl had to try just one more time. /[Syn. epicure] >> glutton  (GLUH tin) n. 1. a person who can eat a copious amount (like a pig); 2. someone capable of a great amount of something

Many native people have gouged out logs to make dugout canoes—primitive water transports. / When that restaurant charged $20 for the $7 bottle of wine they were price gouging and I wouldn’t patronize that place again if I were you. /[-d gouging] >> gouge  (GOWJ) vt. 1 to scoop out; dig out; 2. to overcharge; cheat out of money —n. a curved chisel used in woodworking

Catherine was very gracious in her acceptance of the gifts./ Francine listened to the prisoners’ complaints about the quality of the food in a very gracious manner./ The prince was gracious as he was introduced to the members of the regiment./ Though sumptuous the appointments of the manor were gracious so as to afford comfort to all who might visit. /[-ly adv.] >> gracious  (GRAY shis) adj. 1. showing kindness, courtesy, charm, etc.; 2. com- passionate; merciful; 3. showing kindness toward those in inferior positions; 4. showing taste and luxuriousness appropriate to the well-to-do and well educated

The Breakers (built as a summer home by the Vanderbilts in Newport Rhode Island) can only be described as grandiose./ Napoleon had grandiose plans for a French empire./ The court of Louis XVI was so grandiose as to show the commoners how unimportant they were. >> grandiose  (GRAN dee ohs) adj. 1. imposing; impressive; magnificent; having grandeur; 2. seeming important, pompous, and showy, or trying to so seem

An appropriate gratuity for the waitperson at a restaurant is 15–20% depending on the quality of service./ A gratuity should rarely be left at a European restaurant because the cost of service is already reflected on the bill./ Twenty percent is the appropriate gratuity for taxicab drivers. /[gratuities pl.] [Syn. tip] >> gratuity  (gra TOO i tee) n. a sum of money, often based on a percentage of the total bill, paid to a server or other service person; tip; present

Greed is not always about money although it often is./ Monarchs and dictators through history have shown greed for land and/or power./ Greed for more land also fueled the nineteenth-century American doctrine of Manifest Destiny. /[-iness n.] [Syn. avarice] >> greed  (GREED) n. a desire for more than one needs or deserves; cupidity

Sheep are gregarious animals and never travel alone if they can help it. / Some dogs are more gregarious than others. / If you’re the type of person who enjoys partying the odds are favorable that you’re gregarious. >> gregarious  (gri GAR ee uhs) adj. 1. living in herds or flocks; 2. enjoying the company of others; sociable

Karen hates biting into a piece of chicken and finding gristle. / It’s not always easy to remove the gristle from a roast before cooking it. / If you really can’t stand gristle stick to fish. >> gristle  (GRIS il) n. cartilage, especially cartilage found in prepared meat

The company’s outgoing CEO gave a grudging acknowledgment to his suc- cessor at the board meeting./ Henry’s ex-wife said a grudging hello to his new wife when they came to take the children for the weekend. /[-ly adv.] >> grudging  (GRUD jing) adj. reluctant; with envy and resentment

A gust of wind blew Jake’s hat off. / Emily’s face was scorched by the sudden gust of heat from the burning boat at the amusement park. / A gust of laughter issued forth from the comedian’s audience. /[Syn. wind] >> gust  (GUHST) n. 1 a sudden burst of wind; 2. a sudden burst of rain, smoke, fire, and so on; 3. an explosion of laughter or rage

“Been there done that” is one example of a hackneyed expression./ “We’re going to give it 110%” is both hackneyed and impossible. /[Syn. trite] >> hackneyed  (HAK need) adj. made commonplace or trite through overuse

Hackneyed phrases are ones that have been so overused that they have become meaningless like “a stitch in time saves nine.” / “Right as rain” and “snug as a bug in a rug” are hackneyed expressions. /[Syn. trite] >> hackneyed  (HAK need) adj. made trite (meaningless) by overuse

Having to slog through knee-deep water certainly hampers your getting to work on time. / The detour hampered Blossom from making her scheduled doctor’s appoint- ment on time. / June packed a picnic lunch in a wicker hamper. /[-ed -ing] >> hamper  (HAEM poer) vt. to hinder or impede —n. a covered basket used for laundry, picnics, or whatever

Jim was so hapless that he managed to lose five car keys in one month. / Hapless Harriet was left at the altar by three consecutive fiancés. /[-ly adv.] >> hapless  (HAP lis) adj. unlucky; unfortunate; prone to mishap

The sergeant gave the patrol a 20-minute harangue when they failed to be in the first two to finish their exercise./ The coach harangued the kicker for 15 minutes for having missed the field goal. /[-d haranguing] [Syn. tirade] >> harangue  (hoer ANG) n. a long, loud, scolding speech; a blustering tirade —vt. to speak or address one in such a manner

Bill collectors harass their debtors with phone calls at all hours of the day and night./ Viola’s ex-boyfriend Ted kept harassing her about why they couldn’t give it a second try./ The attack helicopters kept harassing the retreating enemy with repeated sorties against their rear guard. /[-ed -ing] >> harass  (HAR ris, hoer AS) vt. 1. to bother or torment as with worries, bills, repeated questions, etc.; 2. to trouble by repeatedly attacking

The swallows returning to Capistrano is one of the harbingers of spring. / The geese flying south is a harbinger of the weather’s turning cold. / The shrill sounding of the Klaxon on a submarine is the harbinger of the ship’s diving. /[Syn. herald] >> harbinger  (HAHR bin joer) n. a person or thing that comes before someone or something else to announce the arrival

It harrowed Connie that her rival had gotten the position she had wanted. / Studying for the SAT test was a harrowing experience for Fred because so much depended on his doing well. /[-ed -ing] >> harrow  (HAR oh) vt. to torment; vex; cause mental distress

Autumn is the time for the cranberry harvest./ There was a plentiful harvest of all crops last year./ We need some migrant labor to help harvest the grapes./ Salmon farms harvest only salmon of a certain age after breeding is finished./ How much goodwill you can harvest depends on how much your speech is believed./ Surgeons harvest hearts lungs livers kidneys and corneas from donors for transplant. /[-ed -ing -er n.] >> harvest  (HAHR vist) n. 1. the time of year when ripe crops are reaped; 2. a sea- son’s yield of crops or of a particular crop —vt., vi. 1. to gather in the ripe crop(s); 2. to trap, shoot, or catch game, usually for commercial purposes; 3. to get some- thing as the result of some action; 4. to collect organs for transplant

Two of King Lear’s daughters were very haughty and it was not until it was too late that he came to appreciate Cordelia. / Politicians never act haughty in public for fear that they’ll never be elected again. / A haughty person is a snooty person. /[haughtily adv.] [Syn. arrogant] >> haughty  (HAW tee) adj. having or showing great pride in oneself and disdain for others

It’s not unusual for comedians in a nightclub to be heckled by one or more inebriated audience members./ When the prime minister of England speaks to Parliament he can expect members of the opposition to heckle him. /[-d heckling -r* n.] [Syn. bait] >> heckle  (HEK il) vt. to annoy or harrass a speaker by taunting or interrupting with annoying questions

The philosophy of hedonism is most closely associated with the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus (342–270 B.C.E.) who taught that all our actions should maximize pleasure and minimize pain./ Psychological hedonism views humans as built or programmed to exclusively desire pleasure./ Spending one’s entire life on a luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean is probably the ultimate goal of modern hedonism. /[hedonistic adj. hedonistically adv. hedonist n.] >> hedonism  (HEED ’n IZ m) n. 1. (philosophy) the belief that the happiness of the individual or the society is of paramount importance; 2. (psychology) the theory that a person always acts to seek pleasure and avoid pain; 3. a self-indulgence in seeking one’s own pleasure as a way of life

A mother expects her child to heed her—at least until he turns 18./ Ice skaters may be ejected if they do not heed the skating rink’s regulations./ Before going into the theater make sure to heed the rules regarding bring- ing in outside food. /[-ed -ing -ful adj. -fully adv.] >> heed  (HEED) vt. pay close attention to; to take careful notice of; obey

Alexis hoped that by taking evening classes she would heighten her value to the firm./ Regular periods of exercise can only heighten one’s fitness./ Having been picked on as a child served to heighten Paul’s awareness of the sensitivities of others. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. intensify] >> heighten  (HY tin) vt. 1. to take to a higher position; raise; rise; 2. to make better, greater, stronger, etc.; increase; intensify

The treatment of Iraqi Kurds by Saddam Hussein’s government can only be described as heinous./ It is heinous of anyone to attempt to deny that the Holocaust of World War II actually took place. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. outrageous] >> heinous  (HAY nuhs) adj. terribly evil; wicked; abominable; totally awful

The largest dinosaurs that ever lived were herbivores. / There must be more herbivores than carnivores/ think about it. /[herbivorous adj.] >> herbivore  (ER bi VAWR) n. plant eater; an animal that eats only plants, as distinguished from a meat-eating carnivore and an omnivore (an animal that eats both plants and meat)

Aunt Dora’s lamp with the reverse-painted shade is Karen and Bob’s heritage (along with a load of crackle glass)./ Freedoms of speech press and religion are the heritage of every American citizen./ It is also every American citizen’s heritage to defend those freedoms. /[Syn. inheritance birthright] >> heritage  (HER i tij) n. 1. any property that has been or will be inherited; 2. the rights, status, or duties attached to having been born of a certain status or at a specific time or place; birthright

The population of the United States is probably more heterogeneous than any other country’s. / Considerably less heterogeneous is the population of Japan. / You’ll find heterogeneous colors in a bag of jelly beans. >> heterogeneous  (HET oer oh GEE nee uhs) adj. made up of unrelated or dissimilar parts; varied; miscellaneous

Marcia often hews trees to cut up and use for firewood. / Native Americans hewed totem poles from tree trunks. / Many native cultures make hewed pipes and knife handles from wood bone and ivory. /[-ed -ing -n adj. -er n.] [Syn. hack] >> hew  (HYOO) vt. 1 to chop or cut with an ax or knife; 2. to shape something by chopping pieces away with an ax or knife

The heirarchy of commissioned officers in the army is easy to see because the ranks are arranged from the low rank of lieutenant to the top rank of general./ The hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church begins with the pastor travels up through the bishops archbishops and cardinals and ends with the pope./ From municipality to county to state to federal is the hierarchy of U.S. government. /[hierarchical adj. hierarchically adv.] >> hierarchy  (HY ir AHR kee) n. 1. a group of officials, persons, or things arranged by rank, class, grade, etc.; a group of church officials so arranged; 2. the highest officials in such a group

The Rosetta stone made it possible to translate Egyptian hieroglyphics. / Hieroglyphics predate the invention of alphabets. / Many a teacher has told me that I have hieroglyphic writing and need to work on my penmanship. >> hieroglyphic  (HY ruh GLIF ik) n. 1. ancient Egyptian picture writing; 2. any picture writing —adj. illegible writing

Police barriers are used at parades to hinder the public’s physical access to the marchers./ Jaamal’s sore ankle hindered his ability to play basketball./ A lightning storm would definitely hinder any action taking place at the golf tournament. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. obstruct impede] >> hinder  (HIN doer) vt. 1. to restrain; hold back; prevent; 2. to impede; make dif- ficult for —vi. to get in the way of

Hindrance of the bill’s coming to a vote was the intended purpose of the senator’s filibuster./ A Jersey Barrier is a deliberate hindrance to keep traffic moving in opposite directions from crashing into one another./ Being a woman was a considerable hindrance to Jennifer’s attempt to join the men’s baseball team. /[Syn. obstacle] >> hindrance  (HIN drins) n. 1. the act of preventing; 2. obstacle; impediment; obstruction

Adrenaline is a synthetic version of the hormone epinephrine which is secreted by the adrenal glands. / Hormones from the pituitary gland govern our growth rate. >> hormone  (HAWR mohn) n. 1. a substance (secretion) formed in one organ of the body to cause some kind of action in another part of the body; 2. such a preparation produced artificially

A general feeling of hostility toward Japan permeated America after the attack on Pearl Harbor./ Hostility between members of rival gangs has made it difficult to live in some parts of certain U.S. cities./ Hostility of the people toward the regime was the ultimate cause of the storming of the Bastille that began the French Revolution. /[Syn. enmity] >> hostility  (hahs TIL i tee) n. 1. a feeling of antagonism, ill will, unfriendliness, etc.; enmity; 2. hostile acts; an expression of enmity or ill will

All humanity is confined to the surface of the earth./ Studying the humanities usually results in a Bachelor of Arts degree./ In times of stress or hardship it falls on all of us to display our humanity to one another./ A natural disaster on any part of this planet impacts all humanity. /[humanities pl.] >> humanity  (yoo MAN i tee) n. 1. human nature; the act or quality of being of the species Homo sapien; 2. (pl.) human qualities, especially the desirable ones; 3. kindness, caring, mercy, sympathy, etc.; 4. mankind; people; 5. (pl.) the branches of learning dealing with social sciences

If one did not take a humorous view of life’s happenings he or she would be doomed to constant tears./ Being humorous for a living is a difficult task that very few people manage to accomplish./ Sebastian who is two years old thinks that rolling the sleeping dog off the sofa is humorous. /[Syn. witty droll funny] >> humorous  (YOO mer uhs) adj. funny; amusing; comical; showing humor

Although Lloyd makes a big show of his piety at church on Sundays he is really a hypocrite because he drinks cusses and chases loose women the rest of the week./ Used-car salespersons have a well-deserved reputation for being hypocrites guaranteeing you the world until you’ve signed the contract then not tak- ing your phone calls. /[hypocritical adj. hypocritically adv.] >> hypocrite  (HIP uh krit) n. someone who pretends to be pious, virtuous, etc. without really being so; one who feigns being what he or she is not; a fake; pre- tender; sham

An apple’s falling from a tree the story goes inspired Newton’s hypothesis that led to his laws of gravitation./ The hypothesis that heat travels from warmer bodies to cooler bodies gave rise to the science of thermodynamics./ The hypothesis that base metals could be turned into precious metals proved untrue and so chemistry came to replace alchemy. /[hypotheses* pl.] >> hypothesis  (hy PAH thi sis) n. an unproved theory, supposition, presumption, etc. often used to provide a jumping-off point for exploring further

“What would you do if you were king of the world?” is a hypothetical ques- tion because we feel safe in assuming that you are not. / If you ever imagined what type of animal you would be if you could be an animal you’ve had hypothetical musings. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. theoretical] >> hypothetical  (HY pi THE tik il) adj. supposing or presuming something although it is unproven

Our country’s founders could be called iconoclasts for attacking the idea of monarchy. / To evolutionists creationists can seem to be iconoclasts who seek to destroy the theories of evolution/ the reverse is seen by the creationists. /[-ic adj. -ically adv.] >> iconoclast  (y KON uh KLAST) n. someone who attacks and seeks to destroy widely accepted ideas, beliefs, and so on

Robert’s idiosyncrasy is touching food to his chin before putting it into his mouth./ An idiosyncrasy of Aren’s was triggered by her eating strawberries following which blue smoke would issue forth from both her ears. /[idiosyncrasies pl. idiosyncratic adj. idiosyncratically adv.] >> idiosyncrasy  (ID ee yoh SEENK ruh see) n. 1. a personal, peculiar mannerism or affectation; 2. an individual reaction to a food, drug, etc. that is different from other peoples’ normal reaction to the same

Tennyson’s “Idylls of the King” falls into the first category as a short epic- type poem. / Beethoven’s “Pastoral Symphony” (No. 6) could be called an idyll expressed in music. /[-ic adj. -ically adv.] >> idyll  (Y dil) n. 1. a narrative poem, like a short epic; 2. a pastoral poem or prose work; a work describing a picturesque country scene

Granite is an igneous rock. / Basalt is another igneous rock that is formed in sheets. / Marble is not igneous but is a metamorphic rock that began as limestone and had its form changed by volcanic heat. >> igneous  (IG nee uhs) adj. fiery; formed by heat, especially formed by volcanic action

A sure way to cause an accident is to ignore a stop sign./ Frieda often ignores the cat’s meowing by the front door./ The judge ignored Jeff’s excuse that he hadn’t known his act was against the law. /[-d ignoring ignorance n.] [Syn. neglect] >> ignore  (ig NAWR) vt. 1. to intentionally disregard; 2. to pay no attention to; 3. to refuse to consider

Sue’s guitar-playing talent was illusory her best work having been achieved on air guitar./ Custer’s superiority over the Sioux at the Little Bighorn proved to be purely illusory. illustrate (IL uhs TRAYT) vt. 1. to explain/ to make clear/ 2. to exemplify/ 3. to provide pictures drawings diagrams etc. —vi. to offer an example for the purpose of making something clear / A schematic diagram can easily illustrate how an electrical circuit works./ The story of Jackie Robinson’s career illustrates the ideal role model that some major leaguers have been./ Children’s books are often illustrated because a child can appreciate pictures far more easily than written words./ Accentuating the positive is illustrated by Jonah in the whale or Noah in the ark says the song. /[-d illustrating illustration n.] >> illusory  (il YOO sir ee) adj. unreal or deceptive; having the characteristics of an illusion

From the sound of her voice on the phone Jonathan could imagine what Daphne looked like./ Jerry could not even imagine how he’d have reacted had he been in George’s shoes./ Kareem imagined he was on a magic carpet ride. /[-d imagining imagination n.] >> imagine  (im A jin) vt. 1. to conceive in the mind; form a mental picture; 2. to guess; to think; to suppose —vi. to use the imagination

Ian’s drawings imitated those of his older brother and dealt with senseless violence and gore—artfully of course./ Frankie’s attempt to imitate Uncle Jimmy made everyone laugh as he smacked himself in the forehead with his palm./ Marcy’s pictures imitate Valerie’s so closely that she might as well have used a duplicating machine./ Some of Harry’s paintings imitate those of Mondrian. /[-d imitating imitation imitator n.] [Syn. ape mimic emulate] >> imitate  (IM i TAYT) vt. 1. to copy; to mimic; 2. to emulate; attempt to follow the example of; 3. to duplicate; reproduce; 4. to resemble

The living room carpet looked immaculate. / Immaculate diamonds are very rare and very expensive. / Martha’s behavior at the coming-out party was immaculate. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. unflawed] >> immaculate  (im MAK yoo lit) adj. 1. perfectly clean; unsoiled; 2. without flaw; perfectly correct; 3. pure

Some Christian denominations baptize their members by totally immersing them/ others baptize by sprinkling water on their members’ heads./ Immerse your nonstick cookware in soapy water and season it with oil before using it for the first time./ I was so immersed in the Times crossword puzzle that I didn’t notice the phone until the third or fourth ring. /[-d* immersing immersion n.] >> immerse  (i MOERS) vt. 1. to plunge, drop, or dip into a liquid, or as if into a liquid; 2. to submerge in water; 3. to thoroughly absorb oneself in some activity; engross

Eighty miles per hour is an immoderate speed to drive at as well as an ille- gal one in most states./ An immoderate amount of sunlight can cause skin cancer. /[-ly adv. immoderation n.] [Syn. excessive] >> immoderate  (i MAH doer it) adj. excessive; without restraint

Impact the head of a nail enough times with the head of a hammer and you’ll drive it home unless you’ve bent it./ The news of her sister’s accident impacted Allison deeply./ The bumpers of the two cars were involved in the impact./ News of the president’s assassination had a great impact on nearly everybody. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. shock] >> impact  (IM pakt) vt. 1. to force together; to tightly pack; 2. to affect —n. 1. a collision; violent contact; 2. the power of an event to change feelings, bring about changes, etc.; shock

When lecturing his son the on birds and bees Mr. Brown imparted far more information than the boy wanted to know./ If a teacher is a good one he or she will impart an intellectual curiosity to his or her students. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. reveal] >> impart  (im PAHRT) vt. 1. to make known; tell; reveal; 2. to give a share in or of something

The father made an impassioned plea to the kidnappers to release his daughter unharmed./ The governor was impassioned in his appeal for people to donate blood to help the accident victims. /[-ly adv.] >> impassioned  (im PASH ind) adj. filled with, feeling, or showing very strong feeling; passionate; ardent; fiery

Eating peas by balancing them one at a time on a knife tends to impede the progress of dinner. / An open drawbridge might impede one’s access to the castle. /[-d impeding impediment n.] [Syn. hinder] >> impede  (im PEED) vt. 1. hinder, block, or delay; 2. to act as an obstacle

In the past a castle’s wall was built for its impenetrability. / The impenetrability of Germany’s code during World War II proved to be a myth. / Harold’s teachers constantly marvel at the impenetrability of his thick skull. >> impenetrability  (im PEN i truh BIL i tee) n. 1. something that cannot be passed through; 2. something that cannot be understood; 3. someone unreceptive to ideas

The difference in flavors between the two brands of cola is almost imperceptible./ Though imperceptible to some there are differences in the sound quality of a bassoon’s high register and an oboe’s low one. /[imperceptibly* adv.] >> imperceptible  (IM poer SEP ti bl) adj. barely noticeable; not clearly distinct to the mind or the senses; very subtle

Napoleon was short but had an imperious aura about him. / Often in times of war a general needs to be imperious. / Although General George Patton was imperious General Omar Bradley was anything but. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. masterful] >> imperious  (im PIR ee uhs) adj. overbearing; domineering; having the qualities of an emperor

A snowman is a rather impermanent type of statuary—especially in Maryland./ Weather differs from climate in that the former is an impermanent condition. /[-ly adv. impermanence n.] >> impermanent  (im POER mi nint) adj. not lasting; temporary; fleeting

Alice listened to all stories with an imperturbable calmness. / Kevin is very excitable and could never be confused with his imperturbable brother Robert. /[imperturbably adv.] [Syn. impassive] >> imperturbable  (IM poer TOERB i bl) adj. that cannot be disturbed or excited

Janet’s volunteering to join the posse was an impetuous act on her part and took everyone by surprise./ Buddy was impetuous when he suddenly joined the army and he had two years to reflect on the act. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. sudden] >> impetuous  (im PET you is) adj. acting or done suddenly, with little thought; sudden; rash; impulsive

Mary’s oak tree has begun to impinge on her neighbors’ property and is threatening their roof. / It is not a good idea for a lawyer to make a joke in a courtroom because it impinges on the province of the judge. /[-d impinging] [Syn. encroach] >> impinge  (im PINJ) vt. 1. to encroach or make inroads (on the rights or property of others); 2. to touch on or have an effect on (someone or something)

When Bill made impious remarks he was rebuked by Sister Kathleen./ It was impious of Cara to abandon her father to a state-run nursing facility and wash her hands of him. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> impious  (IM pee uhs) adj. 1. lacking reverence for God; 2. lacking respect or sense of obligation toward one’s parents

The widow of the soldier was implacable with grief. / When Vic’s car broke down 10 miles after he had left the repair shop his anger was implacable. /[implacably adv.] [Syn. inflexible] >> implacable  (im PLAK i bl) adj. that cannot be appeased or pacified

The excuse “The dog ate my homework” is at best implausible. / Because Lyle’s fingerprints at the scene of the crime were unmistakable the police felt his alibi was implausible. /[implausibly adv.] [Syn. unlikely] >> implausible  (im PLAWZ i bl) adj. seeming unlikely to be true; not believable

It took some restaurateurs weeks to implement the ban on smoking in restaurants./ Airline pilots will be trained in the use of firearms to implement the new aircraft security policy./ A spade is only one implement used in gardening./ An electric drill is the preferred hole-boring woodworking implement. /[-ed -ing -ation* n.] >> implement  (IM pli MINT) vt. 1. to put into effect; to fulfill; accomplish; 2. to give the means of carrying out something —n. 1. a tool, utensil, or device used to accomplish some task; 2. any tool or person used to accomplish some end

Charlie’s lawyer agreed to his client’s giving testimony in exchange for the prosecution’s dropping any implication that Charlie had been involved in the crime./ I resent your implication that I had any connection to your home’s having been vandalized./ The seller made no implication that could be construed as a warranty other than that provided by the manufacturer. >> implication  (IM pli KAY shn) n. 1. an involvement or connection with some- thing, such as a crime; 2. a showing to be involved with something; 3. something implied, from which an inference can be made

An old-fashioned television picture tube contains a high degree of vacuum or absence of air and pressure so when it breaks there is an implosion. / You might have seen a film of a building being skillfully destroyed by implosion so that it collapses in on itself. >> implosion  (im PLOH zhin) n. a bursting inward; collapsing inward

Jack did not mean to imply that you lacked intelligence./ Your having taken the bicycle from the park implies that the bicycle was in the park in the first place. /[implied -ing implies pl.] [Syn. suggest] >> imply  (im PLY) vt. 1. to suggest; indicate indirectly; hint; intimate; 2. to involve naturally; to have as a needed condition or part

The pug was impounded for seven days to make sure that he had no danger- ous illnesses./ Francine’s car was impounded until $435 in overdue parking tickets were paid. /[-ed -ing] >> impound  (im POWND) vt. 1. to take and hold or shut up (an animal) in a pound; 2. to take and hold (a vehicle, money, papers, etc.) in legal custody

When you sit on the sofa your derriere makes an impression in the cushion./ Rosa’s demeanor gave Pietro the impression that she would welcome an invitation from him to the prom./ Howard had the impression that he’d seen all this before. /[Syn. idea] >> impression  (im PRESH in) n. 1. a mark or imprint caused by physical pressure; 2. an effect formed in the mind or senses by some force or activity; 3. a vague notion, feeling, or recollection

Irwin’s ability to lift 350 lbs. can only be called impressive./ Marjory displayed an impressive command of spelling at the national spelling bee. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> impressive  (im PRES iv) adj. tending to have or having a significant effect on the mind; wondrous; causing admiration

New spark plugs improve the way some cars run./ Keeping the amount of salt low improves the healthfulness of soup./ When Virginia improved her property by building the boathouse she was not surprised to see her taxes go up. /[-d improving] [Syn. better] >> improve  (im PROOV) vt. 1. to make better; improve the condition or quality of; 2. to make more valuable (as in by cultivating or building on land)

The defense witness was called to impugn the testimony of an earlier prose- cution witness./ The interview with Ari’s eighth-grade teacher was enough to impugn Ari’s reputation for honesty. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. deny] >> impugn  (im PYOON) vt. to criticize or challenge as false or questionable in nature

An impulse caused by the forced ejection of hot gases drives a jet engine./ The impulse of his push made her fall from the cliff./ Around midnight Barbara had a sudden impulse to eat a pistachio ice- cream cone. /[impulsive adj. impulsively adv.] [Syn. thrust] >> impulse  (IM puhls) n. 1. a driving force; push; impetus; thrust; sudden urge; 2. an inclination to act, without premeditation; a motive coming from within

Film historians impute the phrase “Never give a sucker an even break” to W. C. Fields./ Bugsy Seagal is imputed with being the first to recognize Las Vegas as a potential vacation destination./ Chicago’s bloody gang wars of the early twentieth century are often imput- ed to Al Capone. /[-d imputing] [Syn. ascribe] >> impute  (im PYOOT) vt. to ascribe; to attribute (especially a fault or bad deed) to someone; to charge with

Cathy’s crashing her car into the wall was inadvertent. / Sam is often troubled by an inadvertent urge to scratch his nose. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. unintentional] >> inadvertent  (in ad VER tint) adj. 1. unattentive; heedless; 2. accidental; unintentional

The blaring of boom boxes at certain beaches is incessant. / Rebecca’s mom seems to have an incessant need to remind her to watch what she eats. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. continual constant] >> incessant  (in SES int) adj. never ceasing; seemingly never ending

Julio’s term paper is still at the inchoate stage mostly on index cards. / A six-week-old fetus is inchoate in its development. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. rudimentary] >> inchoate  (in KOH it) adj. 1. not fully formed; disorganized; 2. in the early stages; incipient

The man or woman burning the fallen leaves in a garbage can to get rid of them is probably the most universally known incinerator./ Commercial incinerators are today required to meet standards to limit pol- lutants escaping into the air. >> incinerator  (in SIN oer AY tir) n. someone or thing (especially a high- temperature furnace) that is used to burn things (from the verb, incinerate)

A 220V air conditioner’s plug is incompatible with a 115V electrical outlet grounded or otherwise./ The jobs of prosecutor and judge are totally incompatible—you can’t do both simultaneously./ Contrary to popular myth cats are far from incompatible with dogs. /[incompatibly adv. incompatibility n.] >> incompatible  (IN kuhm PAT i bil) adj. 1. not able to exist in harmony; not get- ting along well together; inharmonious; 2. two or more jobs that cannot be held at the same time by the same person; 3. contradictory tenets or positions

The 240-pound 45-year-old Anna was proclaimed incompetent to become an astronaut./ Warren demonstrated his incompetent driving skills by parking his car in the grocery store’s soda aisle./ Although he had received 6 years of medical training without a license Dr. Pepper was incompetent to practice medicine in New York. /[-ly adv. incompetence incompetency n.] >> incompetent  (in KAHM pit int) adj. 1. lacking adequate ability, fitness, etc.; incapable; 2. not meeting legal qualifications

When Julianna mumbled what she had to say was completely incomprehensible./ The incomprehensible plan for the democratization of Xanadu was not understood by anybody. /[incomprehensibly adv. incomprehensibility n.] >> incomprehensible  (IN kahm pri HEN si bil) adj. not capable of being under- stood; unintelligible; obscure

When compared to the Allies’ landing at Normandy in 1944 Gino’s landing at Palmer Mall in 2004 was inconsequential./ Although considered a great invention in its own day when balanced against the microcomputer sliced bread seems inconsequential. /[-ly adv.] >> inconsequential  (in KAHN si KWEN chil) adj. unimportant; trivial; of no consequence

Given the facts that the police already knew Arnold’s story could only be described as inconsistent./ Fishermen’s tales tend to be inconsistent with the size of the fish growing in each retelling. /[-ly adv.] >> inconsistent  (IN kuhn SIS tint) adj. not in agreement; not uniform; self- contradictory; changeable

When the batter is well mixed it’s time to add the egg yolks one at a time until each is incorporated./ Many smaller single-purpose companies incorporate the multimeda giants of today./ By incorporating a company is able to protect its officers from personal lia- bility for its misdeeds. /[-d incorporating] [Syn. embody include] >> incorporate  (in KAWR pir AYT) vt. 1. to join with something already there; to combine; to embody; to include; 2. to merge or bring together to form a single entity; 3. to form into a legally organized group that acts as a single entity

Lance’s incorrigible behavior is going to land him in hot water. / Although her parents have tried again and again to keep Angela from putting on all that makeup she has remained incorrigible. /[incorrigibly adv.] >> incorrigible  (in KAW ri ji bl) adj. not capable of being corrected, improved, or reformed (due to bad habits or disregard)

Egyptian aircraft made a brief incursion into Sudanese airspace as they returned from their mission. / Indonesian troops made an incursion into East Timor seeking to capture a wanted revolutionary. >> incursion  (in KOER zhin) n. 1. an unwanted inroad; 2. a sudden brief invasion or attack; raid

Arthur’s indecorous display of foul language at the ballpark indicated that he’d had a few too many beers./ The army frowns upon indecorous behavior by anyone in uniform—this is the main reason it employs MPs. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. improper] >> indecorous  (in DEK oer is) adj. lacking propriety; lacking correctness; not in good taste; unseemly

The senator’s indefatigable efforts have finally succeeded in passing a bill of rights for rabbits. / The supporters of classifying whipped cream as the all-American treat have been indefatigable in their labors. /[-ly adv.] >> indefatigable  (IN di FAT ig uh bl) adj. never growing tired; unyielding to fatigue

The documentary filmmaker’s reference to the president of the United States was to say the least indelicate. / It was indelicate of Henry to keep referring to his ex-wife as the old battle-ax. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. coarse improper] >> indelicate  (in DEL i kit) adj. coarse; crude; improper; gross

The dashboard light indicates that a door is open./ Uncle Sam’s pointing finger in the old recruitment signs served to indicate that the one he wanted was you./ An engagement ring is usually a good way to indicate that one is serious about another. /[-d indicating] >> indicate  (IN di KAYT) vt. 1. to point to or point out; direct attention to; 2. to be or to give a sign or token of; signify

The parking valet’s indifference toward the wishes of his clients was reflect- ed in the paucity of his tips./ Tania’s concerns about her sister’s well-being were met with indifference by the part-time night nurse./ Indifference is the last reaction that a concerned person wishes to encounter. >> indifference  (in DIFF oer ens) n. a lack of concern, interest, or feeling; apathy; the condition of being indifferent

Rhonda expressed her indignation at the shabby way her father was treated by the car dealer./ The attentive waiter expressed his indignation to his boss at the paltry size of the gratuity the last diner had left. /[Syn. anger] >> indignation  (IN dig NAY shin) n. righteous anger; anger at injustice, unfair- ness, or ingratitude

Jim’s indomitable spirit kept him in the race against all odds./ Nancy’s determination to reach her goal was indomitable. /[indomitably adv.] >> indomitable  (in DAHM it i bil) adj. not easily discouraged or subdued; unbeat- able; not conquerable

The orchid’s ineffable beauty defied Sue’s ability to describe it./ The parishioner could not bring himself to speak the ineffable name of the Lord. /[ineffably adv.] >> ineffable  (in EF i bil) adj. 1. overwhelming; too great to be described in words; 2. too awesome or sacred to be spoken

The special vitamins given to the horse to make it run faster proved to be inefficacious./ It was obvious that the lawn treatment had been inefficacious when the new crop of dandelions appeared. /[-ly adv.] >> inefficacious  (in EF i KAY shuhs) adj. unable to bring about the desired result; not efficacious

The engine was inefficient because it used a lot of fuel to accomplish the job./ A fork while excellent for eating steak is quite inefficient when it comes to eating soup. /[-ly adv. inefficiency n.] >> inefficient  (IN if ISH int) adj. failing to give the desired result with a minimum use of energy, time, etc.; not suited to perform the desired task; incapable

Steven was inexorable in his support for universal medical coverage despite all who argued against it./ Undeterred by dire weather reports and unrelenting cold Amundsen pur- sued his inexorable trek to the South Pole. /[inexorably adv.] >> inexorable  (in EGZ oer IB il) adj. 1. unmovable by persuasion, argument, or entreaty; unrelenting; 2. unchangeable; unstoppable

The notion of being on the winning side was infatuating to Don and caused him to vote for the change in coaches with dire results. / Cindy might have completely disagreed with Ned’s position on school prayer were she not infatuated with him. /[-d infatuating infatuation n.] >> infatuate  (in FAT yoo AYT) vt. 1. to cause to lose sound judgment; to make foolish; 2. to inspire shallow affection

From your knowledge of human behavior and that of Fred in particular you should be able to infer whether he deliberately misled Wilma and Pebbles./ The fact that Barney had both motive and opportunity might lead one to infer that he had something to do with the doughnut’s disappearance. /[-red* -ring -ence n.] [Syn. deduce conclude] >> infer  (in FOER) vt. 1. to decide or conclude something from something that is known or assumed; to derive by reasoning; 2. to indicate indirectly; to lead to a conclusion; indicate

It was the job of the platoon of rangers to infiltrate the enemy’s line to cause havoc in their rear. / The rebels infiltrated the palace guard so as to be in a position to strike when the time was right. / New coffee-brewing machines use gravity causing the water to infiltrate the grounds and fall into the carafe below. /[-d infiltrating infiltration n.] >> infiltrate  (IN fil TRAYT) vt. 1. to pass through weak points in an enemy’s line so as to attack from the flank or rear; 2. to pass into a place stealthily so as to attack from the inside or to seize control; 3. to pass through, as in a filter

The realm of natural numbers is infinite with neither beginning nor end./ Do you think people are destined to explore the infinite vastness of inter- galactic space? /[-ly adj.] [Syn. immense endless] >> infinite  (IN fin it) adj. 1. lacking in boundaries or limits; without beginning or end; 2. very great; vast; immense

Certain physically fit senior citizens resent the fact that the elderly and the infirm are often referred to in the same sentence. / Some congresspersons are infirm in their voting records on civil rights. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. weak] >> infirm  (in FOERM) adj. 1. not strong physically; weak; 2. not strong in one’s position; vacillating; shaky

The revolutionary’s speech was inflammatory and was calculated to incite the crowd to action./ Poison ivy is inflammatory to the skin of anyone who is allergic to it. /[inflammatorily adv.] >> inflammatory  (in FLAM uh TAW ree) adj. 1. causing or likely to cause anger, excitement, violence, etc.; 2. of or characterized by redness as a reaction by the body to some irritant

Harold’s influence was evident in Marcy’s choice of chocolate layer cake./ Billionaire Vilo Kvetch used his influence to get a No Parking sign installed in front of his Park Avenue mansion./ It is easy to see sunlight influence the direction in which day lilies face as they follow it across the sky. /[-d influencing] [Syn. power] >> influence  (IN floo INS) n. 1. the ability of a person(s) or thing(s) to affect oth- ers as evidenced by the effect; 2. the power of persons of wealth or high status to cause immediate change —vt. to effect the behavior, development, nature, etc. of others

Iris just got the latest information from the travel agent./ The more information you have on a subject the easier it is to make an intelligent choice./ Telephone information can be obtained (for a fee) by dialing one of several sources. >> information  (IN foer MAY shin) n. 1. a telling of or being told something; 2. something learned; news; intelligence; 3. facts; data; lore

Smoking cigarettes tends to inhibit one’s ability to participate in strenuous sports./ Fear of needles inhibits many people from volunteering to donate blood. /[-ed -ing -ion n.] [Syn. restrain retard] >> inhibit  (in HIB it) vt. 1. to restrain or hold back from some action; 2. to keep back; keep in check

Certain products which we will not name here have proven to be inimitable although many companies have tried. / The late Jack Benny was a comedian who influenced many of the comics of today but as a total package he remains inimitable. /[inimitably adv.] [Syn. unequaled] >> inimitable  (in IM it uh bl) adj. incapable of being imitated; too good to be copied

The butterfly is an innocuous insect that hurts neither plant nor animal./ The president’s speech was innocuous treading on nobody’s toes and gener- ally boring the audience to sleep. >> innocuous  (in AHK yoo is) adj. 1. that does no harm or injury; harmless; 2. not controversial or oppressive; innocent; uninspiring and dull

Luther Burbank was an innovative person who bred many new varieties of fruits vegetables and flowers./ Freeze-drying is an innovative way of preserving foods invented in the sec- ond half of the twentieth century. /[-ly adv.] >> innovative  (IN OH vay tiv) adj. 1. the act or process of finding new methods; 2. a new method, custom, device, etc.

There are an inordinate number of bakeries throughout the United States./ An inordinate number of students are not up-to-date on completing their homework assignments. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. excessive] >> inordinate  (in AWR din it) adj. 1. not regulated or orderly; 2. lacking in moder- ation; too great

Marshall made an inquiry among his new neighbors before deciding on where to bank./ An inquiry by the NHTSA followed the oil truck accident./ The grocery cashier made an inquiry of each of her customers as to whether (s)he had found everything (s)he came to buy. >> inquiry  (IN kwir ee or in KWY ree) n. 1. the act of seeking information; 2. an investigation or looking at something; 3. a question or questioning

It is believed that the human appendix is a vestige left over from an earlier time when humans were insectivores. / One of the best controllers of insect populations is an insectivore which has taken an unfair beating in literature the vampire bat. >> insectivore  (in SEKT iv AWR) n. any of a number of plants or animals (such as shrews, moles, aardvarks, Venus flytraps, and so on) that feed primarily on insects

Perry’s five minutes in the freezing water rendered him insensible to the temperature of the air. / Congresswoman Lorraine’s self-centeredness caused her to be insensible to the wishes of her constituents. /[insensibly adv.] >> insensible  (in SEN si bl) adj. 1. lacking in sensation or feeling; unconscious; numb; 2. not recognizing or realizing; unaware

Henry’s insight made it possible for him to tell the quality of any cabinet’s construction./ Lois’s long experience with cats and dogs gave her insight into why Libby was whining and whether to call the vet. /[-ful adj. -fully adv.] >> insight  (IN syt) n. 1. the ability to intuitively grasp the inner nature of things; 2. a clear understanding of the inner nature of a certain thing

Howard’s insincerity became evident when Diane accidentally scratched the diamond he had given her with her car key. / When the spider invited the fly to come in and join him for dinner very few knowledgeable insects would have doubted its insincerity. >> insincerity  (IN sin SER it ee) n. the quality of being hypocritical; not to be trusted; not meaning what one says

Joanne wanted the part in the play so much that she continuously insinu- ated her way into the tryouts until she managed to wangle the role. / Tom’s appearing on the platform at the rally for the senator insinuates his support for her positions. /[-d insinuating] [Syn. imply suggest] >> insinuate  (in SIN yoo ayt) vt. 1. to gradually and artfully work one’s way into; 2. to suggest or imply; to hint

The lukewarm cup of weak tea was absolutely insipid without lemon or sugar./ Byron had an insipid personality sort of like a piece of wet toast./ Last night’s insipid party’s most exciting moment was its ending. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. banal vapid flat/ Ant. zestful spicy] >> insipid  (in SIP id) adj. 1. tasteless; unflavored; 2. dull; lifeless; lacking tang or zest

Jack was expelled from school for being insolent with his teachers and with the school administrators./ Insolent behavior while in the armed services is a sure ticket to the brig. /[-ly adv. insolence n.] [Syn. impertinent proud] >> insolent  (IN suh lint) adj. strongly disrespectful; impertinent; impudent in speech and behavior

It takes many lessons to instill a child with the proper way to treat other people./ Farah was not quick to grasp the principles of driving a car and it took her instructor 25 lessons to instill the skills she needed to pass her licensing exam. /[-ed -ing -ment n.] >> instill  (ins TIL) vt. to put in little by little, or drop by drop; to impart a thought, idea, principle, etc. gradually

The Bill of Rights is an institution that has survived many assaults by law- makers over the years./ The institution of daylight saving time is not observed in all the contiguous 48 states./ An institution of higher learning is ideally a place for a free exchange of ideas./ The savings and loan institution is on the corner of Third and Main streets. >> institution  (IN sti TOO shin) n. 1. an established law, custom, etc.; 2. an insti- tuting establishment; 3. an organization having a public character, such as a school, church, bank, etc.; 4. the building housing such an organization

A spading fork might well be the most versatile garden instrument./ A pilot’s instruments tell the speed and altitude of the aircraft as well as the plane’s attitude./ When asked to choose an instrument to play Benny picked the clarinet./ A letter of credit is a financial instrument. /[-al adj. -ally adv.] [Syn. implement] >> instrument  (IN struh mint) n. 1. a tool; something or someone used to do something; 2. any of many kinds of devices used to measure (temperature, wind, electricity, etc.); 3. a device that produces a musical sound; 4. a legal document

You don’t want to write a check if you have insufficient funds in your account. / Never base a conclusion on insufficient information. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. inadequate] >> insufficient  (IN suh FISH int) adj. not enough; inadequate

The residents of Manhattan live on an island yet their view of the world is far from insular. / One might expect a resident of a small town in Iowa to have an insular view of the world situation and one would be wrong to think so. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] [Syn. isolated] >> insular  (IN su loer) adj. 1. like an island; detached; isolated; 2. narrow minded; illiberal; provincial in outlook

Many states require that automobiles be insured in case one damages some- one else’s property. / By taking the 8:00 A.M. train Clara insures that she will be at work on time. /[-d insuring] >> insure  (in SHUR) vt. 1. to contract to receive monetary compensation for loss of property, life, and so on; 2. to guarantee

A laptop computer integrates monitor CPU and keyboard into a single compact package./ The European Union integrates the economic power of Europe into a formi- dable force./ To racially integrate the South was a great undertaking of the 1960s./ To learn to integrate equations study calculus. /[-d integrating integration n.] >> integrate  (IN te GRAYT) vt. 1. to make whole or complete by bringing parts together; 2. to unify; 3. to remove the social barriers of racial segregation; 4. (math) to calculate the integrals of an equation

The fuel tank’s integrity survived the car crash./ A plumber checks the integrity of a gas line by spraying it with a soapy solution and watching for bubbles./ A person’s integrity can often be measured by the trust of others. >> integrity  (in TEG ri tee) n. 1. wholeness; entirety; 2. the quality of being in perfect condition; soundness; 3. the quality of being morally sound; uprightness; honesty; sincerity

The game of chess has often been looked at (incorrectly) as an intellectual training ground./ Karen has demonstrated particularly keen intellectual powers when it comes to solving a mystery. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. intelligent] >> intellectual  (IN ti LEK tyoo il) adj. 1. pertaining or appealing to the ability to reason (intellect); 2. activities of the intellect; 3. having or showing superior reason- ing powers —n. a person of intellect and learning

Lloyd was intemperate in his gambling never missing an opportunity to place a bet./ Diane’s disposition was intemperate being quick to anger at the slightest perceived slight./ Rocco is an intemperate drinker often ending up sloshed. /[-ly adv.] >> intemperate  (in TEM per uht) adj. 1. not moderate; lacking in restraint; exces- sive or severe; violent; 2. consuming too large a quantity of beer, wine, liquor, etc.

The poet’s words created an intense image of warfare./ The effort he put into pulling on the rope was intense./ Paula had an intense desire to become a professional musician. /[-ly adv.] >> intense  (in TENS) adj. 1. very strong; extreme; sharp; vivid; 2. strenuous; fervent; strained very hard; 3. showing or having strong emotion; being very serious

Bob’s mom interceded to work out an agreement between him and his brother over which TV show to watch. / The police interceded to keep a gang war from erupting. /[-d interceding] [Syn. mediate] >> intercede  (in teor SEED) vt. 1. to interfere to help work out an agreement; to mediate; 2. to step in to prevent something from happening

Charlie had an interest in a bicycle repair shop on Elm St./ Vicki’s calling Bob upset Anne who had her own interest in him./ A good teacher always takes an interest in the welfare of his or her students. >> interest  (IN toer EST) n. 1. a claim to or share of something; 2. an involvement; 3. a concern

The intermission between play acts or entre acte is a good time to stretch one’s legs./ In the intermission between halves of the seventh inning comes baseball’s traditional seventh-inning stretch./ An intermission between periods of fighting is always a welcome time dur- ing any war. >> intermission  (IN toer MISH in) n. 1. a time period between acts in a play or half innings in a baseball game; 2. any pause between periods of activity

One must only interpolate a few no’s into a text to totally change its meaning. / To find the value of the sine of 60.5° interpolate from the sines of 60° and 61°. /[-d interpolating] [Syn. edit] >> interpolate  (in TOER puh layt) vt. 1. to stick something in amongst others (especially one or more words into a text); 2. to estimate an intermediate value in a table by taking an average of the surrounding values

The interpretation of The Iliad from its ancient Greek has happened many times over./ Freud’s forte was the interpretation of the meanings of dreams./ Two violinists’ interpretations of a Beethoven sonata might differ greatly. >> interpretation  (in TOER pri TAY shin) n. 1. the meaning, expression, or expla- nation of something; 2. one person’s take on the meaning of some work (of art, literature, etc.); artistic expression

It often takes the intervention of a third party to keep two boxers apart at the weigh-in./ The United States has gained a reputation for its frequent intervention in the affairs of Central American countries./ The confrontation of a drug user by his friends to get him into rehab is known as an intervention. >> intervention  (IN toer VEN shin) n. 1. the act of coming between; 2. any inter- ference in the affairs of others, whether people, companies, or countries

It is easy to intimidate little children but it’s not very sporting./ Mobsters have been known to intimidate potential witnesses against them to deter them from testifying. /[-d intimidating intimidation intimidator n.] >> intimidate  (in TIM id ayt) vt. 1. to make afraid; daunt; 2. to deter or compel with threats of violence; cow

David’s cowlick was completely intractable and no hair tonic or mousse seemed able to help. / The new infection was intractable resisting most known antibiotics. /[intractably adv.] [Syn. unruly] >> intractable  (in TRAK tuh bl) adj. 1. difficult to manage; unruly; stubborn; 2. difficult to manipulate, treat, or cure

The governor was intransigent in his position against having broccoli as the state vegetable. / The swimming coach was intransigent in his insistence on everyone doing 20 laps in the pool before calling it a day. / When it came to doing homework before playing after school Loren’s mother was an intransigent. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. uncompromising] >> intransigent  (in TRAN si jint) adj. 1. unreconcilable; 2. refusing to compromise; uncompromising —n. a person who is uncompromising

Actors who play Roman gladiators appear to be intrepid./ The Marines who fought on Iwo Jima were intrepid indeed./ Are you intrepid enough to ride a big roller coaster? /[Syn. brave] >> intrepid  (in TRE pid) adj. not afraid; bold; fearless; very brave

The instructions for assembling the model airplane were extremely intricate. / The intricate gingerbread work on the exterior gives a very distinctive char- acter to Victorian-style houses. / For the beginner the Japanese game of Go seems simple when in fact it is a very intricate game. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. complex] >> intricate  (IN trik it) adj. puzzling because of complicated structure or directions; difficult to follow or understand

Brutus and Cassius intrigue to kill Julius Caesar in Shakespeare’s take on the subject./ A cliff-hanger intrigues one to find out what will come next./ The intrigue of Quisling’s fifth column betrayed Norway./ Many believe the death of JFK was the result of intrigue./ Tracy and Hepburn’s intrigue lasted many years. /[-d intriguing] [Syn. plot] >> intrigue  (in TREEG) vt. 1. to bring on by secret plotting; 2. to excite the curiosi- ty; fascinate —n. 1. a secret or underhanded plotting; 2. a secret plot; 3. a love affair

Gold has always had an intrinsic value as a precious metal./ Some but not all believe that good is intrinsic to all people./ The intrinsic nature of children is innocence. /[-ally* adv.] >> intrinsic  (in TRIN sik) adj. essential nature; not depending on outside sources; inherent

Before one commits to a lifetime of doing anything it is important to be introspective and know one’s own feelings. / An introspective examination never hurt anybody. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. meditative] >> introspective  (in troh SPEK tiv) adj. looking within one’s self and analyzing one’s inner thoughts and feelings

Eric’s intrusion into the girl’s locker room was not greeted with amusement./ Tresspassing is one form of illegal intrusion/ burglary is another./ Volcanic intrusions can be found in some museums’ geological exhibits. >> intrusion  (in TROO zhin) n. 1. the act of forcing one’s self or ideas on another who has not asked for and/or does not welcome them; 2. (law) the illegal entry onto another’s land; 3. (geology) the squeezing of magma between layers of solid rock; the actual solidified rock so created

Ginny seemed to have been born with an intuitive grasp of how to ride a horse./ Alan found driving an automobile to be intuitive and was driving like an old-timer the first time he took the wheel. /[-ly adv.] >> intuitive  (in TOO it iv) adj. 1. having to do with intuition (a direct and imme- diate understanding or learning of something without use of reasoning); 2. learning or knowing by such a feeling

As the dam burst the town below it was inundated by a raging torrent of water./ Business has been so busy that the work is beginning to inundate our employees. /[-d inundating -s* pl.] >> inundate  (IN uhn DAYT) vt. 1. to cover with flood water; to engulf; 2. to over- run with a rush or copious amount of anything

Joy’s babysitting help during our recent emergency was absolutely invaluable./ Taking the PSAT exam last year was an invaluable warm-up for this year’s SAT test. /[Syn. costly] >> invaluable  (in VAL yoo UH bl) adj. priceless; too valuable to measure

Using invective when speaking of people never won anybody new friends. / It is not considered appropriate to use invective when traveling in polite circles. >> invective  (in VEK tiv) n. 1. an abusive term; insult; curse; 2. strong criticism; violent language

Investigative reporters spend most of their time doing research and a much smaller portion reporting./ A branch of medicine is devoted to investigative research to discover how certain drugs work to cure illnesses. /[-ly adv.] >> investigative  (in VES ti GAY tiv) adj. 1. of or inclined to look into the facts to find an answer; 2. inclined to investigate

When someone has an auto accident the insurance investigator’s job is to find out what or who caused the accident./ Many detective stories have been written about fictional private investiga- tors who are for hire. >> investigator  (in VEST i GAY tir) n. a person who gathers information, confi- dential and otherwise, for an individual, a company, or an organization (govern- mental or other)

A brisk walk after dinner often serves to invigorate one./ Sailors claim that nothing invigorates like a sea breeze. /[-d invigorating*] [Syn. animate] >> invigorate  (in VIG uh RAYT) vt. to fill with energy or vigor; to enliven

The Geneva Conventions contain certain inviolable rules for the humane treatment of prisoners of war./ The laws of nature are the only rules on earth that are truly inviolable. >> inviolable  (in VY uh li bl) adj. 1. not to be profaned, injured, or violated; sacred; 2. unable to be violated; indestructible

Greg is irascible and flies off the handle quite readily. / The broken front door is a by-product of Max’s being irascible. /[irascibly adv.] [Syn. irritable] >> irascible  (i RAS i bl) adj. 1. quick tempered; easily angered; 2. showing or result- ing from quick temperedness

An abalone shell lying on the beach seems to have an iridescent gleam when struck by a bright light./ Metallic car finishes often appear iridescent in sunlight. >> iridescent  (I rid ES int) adj. having or showing a rainbow of colors that shift as it is looked at from different angles

Isn’t it ironic how Kenny always does the opposite of what he says he’s going to do?/ Reverse psychology is ironic in that one tells the child to do the exact opposite of the desired behavior. /[-ally adv.] >> ironic  (ay RAH nik) adj. 1. meaning the opposite of what is said; 2. given to saying the opposite of what one means

There is no point in arguing with two-year-olds because they are almost always irrational./ Adele’s irrational behavior led to her being taken to the psychiatrist for examination. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] [Syn. unreasonable] >> irrational  (i RASH in uhl) adj. 1. lacking the power to reason; 2. unreasonable; absurd; senseless

When the doctor asked you whether you had any allergies your reply about what your grandmother used to cook was completely irrelevant./ When purchasing a sport jacket the size of your feet is irrelevant. /[-ly adv. irrelevance n.] >> irrelevant  (i REL iv ent) adj. not relating to the subject; not pertinent; not to the point

The judge ruled that Dorothy was irresponsible for Rose’s broken eyeglasses./ Driving an automobile after having a few alcoholic beverages is an irresponsible act./ I would never hire the guy who installed my sink again/ he’s just too irre- sponsible. /[irresponsibly adv.] >> irresponsible  (I ris PAHN si bl) adj. not liable for certain actions; unreliable; shiftless

Some comedians’ stock in trade is speaking of serious matters with irreverence./ It is not a good idea to show irreverence for the power of a chain saw— especially when using it./ Very few parents appreciate their teenaged children’s irreverence toward their wishes. >> irreverence  (i REV er rins) n. 1. lack of respect or reverence; 2. an act showing lack of respect; 3. a person’s being treated with same

If you are a chess player the last thing you want is for your opponent to isolate your king from his protection./ Accidentally leaving a child home alone is one isolated instance (in more ways than one)./ When a solid is precipitated out of a solution or suspension that solid is called the isolate. /[-d isolating] >> isolate  (AY suh LAYT for vt., adj., AY suh lit for n.) vt. to set apart from others; to cause to be alone —adj. of or relating to something that has been set apart -n. a person or group that has been set apart

To prevent the spread of infection a carrier of an infectious disease is often placed in isolation./ Isolation is often the best place for an inmate who is a danger to others. /[Syn. solitude] >> isolation  (AY suh LAY shin) n. the condition of having been set apart; being alone

Carbon atomic number 6 has two isotopes C-12 and C-14 with atomic weights shown by their numbers. / U-235 U-238 and U-239 are three isotopes of uranium. /[isotopic adj.] >> isotope  (Y suh tohp) n. any one of two or more elements that share the same atomic number, but have different atomic weights

After having studied all night Amber was jaded by morning./ Having handled hundreds of homicide cases over the years the detective’s view of humanity has become rather jaded./ The social worker tried not to be jaded at each new family abuse case she encountered but it was difficult. /[-ly adv.] >> jaded  (JAY did) adj. 1. worn out; weary; tired; 2. satiated or dulled from overindulging

When a door is closed its front and rear edges are in contact with the jambs. / Some metallic ores are found in jambs. >> jamb  (JAM) n. 1 a side post or any part of a frame for a window or door; 2. a pillar of ore

It is good to go through life with a jocular outlook on things. / When Jill said you look like a million she was being jocular. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. witty] >> jocular  (JAHK yoo loer) adj. 1. joking; humorous; 2. said as a joke

Daniel Dafoe’s Robinson Crusoe is in the form of a journal kept by a cast- away on a desert island./ The treasurer of any corporation must keep a journal of all the financial transactions./ Many local newspapers contain the word journal in their names like New York City’s lamented Journal-American. >> journal  (JOER nil) n. 1. a daily record of events; diary; 2. the records of an orga- nization’s transactions; ledger; 3. a newspaper, daily or otherwise

In most civil cases a jury is not used and a single person must judge the merits of the case./ Would you like to judge a contest to determine the most beautiful pig?/ You judge which of the two chairs is more comfortable./ Do you judge the new automobiles as being of higher or lower quality than last year’s models?/ The position of judge is considered one of great trust./ The judge will decide which pie is tastiest./ Years of experience are required to refine one’s taste buds to the point where (s)he can qualify as a judge of fine wines./ When it comes to movies everyone’s a judge. /[-d judging -ment n.] [Syn. decide] >> judge  (JUHJ) vt. 1 to hear arguments and decide the outcome; 2. to decide the outcome of a contest; 3. to form an opinion; to estimate; 4. to criticize —n. 1. a public official elected or appointed for purposes of vt. #1 and #3; 2. a contest decider; 3. one qualified to form an opinion or to criticize; 4. a critic

Laws are passed and signed subject to judicial review./ For a search warrant to be valid it must bear a judicial signature./ Strict codes of behavior govern judicial proceedings./ A court must follow judicial procedures evenhandedly. >> judicial  (joo DISH il) adj. 1. pertaining to judges, courts, or their functions; 2. enforced or set by order of a court or judge; 3. suitable to or like a judge; 4. fair and unbiased

Justice must be meted out equally to all/ anything else is unjust./ Justice must allow no favoritism of any kind./ Justice requires that the good be rewarded and the evil be punished./ The courts of law in this country are charged with administering justice./ A justice of the peace has the power to perform weddings. >> justice  (JUHS tis) n. 1. impartiality and fairness; 2. the quality of being correct; right; 3. sound reason; validity; 4. deserved results; reward or penalty for good or bad deeds, respectively; 5. procedure of a court of law; 6. a judge

The town cited the fire hazard caused by old wiring to justify upgrading its electrical code./ Law officers must present a judge with some evidence of wrongdoing to justify getting a wiretap warrant./ Mr. Jones must justify his having cut down Mrs. Smith’s oak tree./ The lines of type on most papers that you submit in school are justified on the left. /[justified -ing justification n.] >> justify  (JUHS ti fy) vt. 1. to show to be right; vindicate; 2. to supply lawful grounds for; warrant —vi. 1. to show sufficient reason for doing something; prove; 2. to align a row or rows of type on a page

Words that modify other words should be placed in juxtaposition to the words they modify./ When returning home after grocery shopping it is preferable to place the trunk of the car in juxtaposition with the door to your house nearest the kitchen. >> juxtaposition  (JUHX tuh puh ZISH in) n. placed side by side or close together

Do you have any knowledge of the whereabouts of Waldo?/ It is important to have a thorough knowledge of the facts before reaching any conclusion about them./ An encyclopedia attempts to catalog all the knowledge of mankind and it does it alphabetically for convenience. >> knowledge  (NAH lij) n. 1. information; awareness; understanding; 2. acquain- tance with the facts; 3. the complete body of information; enlightenment

Calvin Coolidge was a very laconic president rarely wasting words. / Most people prefer not to be laconic for fear of hurting others’ feelings. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. concise] >> laconic  (luh KAH nik) adj. using few words; brief; to the point

Killer Kowalski lambasted most of his ring opponents. / Ashley’s mother lambasted her verbally for getting home after curfew. /[-d lambasting] [Syn. thrash] >> lambaste  (lam BAYST) vt. 1. to beat soundly; thrash; 2. to scold or denounce

When Lucy fell off the horse and hurt her leg there was a danger that she might be lame for life./ While running the bases Sebbie came up lame and had to limp off the field./ “The dog ate my homework” is universally recognized as a very lame excuse. /[lamer lamest lamely adv.] >> lame  (LAYM) adj. 1 disabled or crippled, especially in one or both legs; 2. stiff and painful; 3. weak; unconvincing; ineffectual

After his bout with mononucleosis Jim was languid for a number of weeks./ Ian’s interest in mathematics is lacking and can best be described as languid./ Kathy was unprepared for her trip to Quebec because of her languid attempts to learn enough French. /[languidly adv. languidness n.] >> languid  (LANG wid) adj. 1. lacking vitality; drooping; weak; 2. lacking interest; 3. indifferent; sluggish

Brown-eyed Jose carries a latent blue eye color gene./ Ali has a latent desire to dress like a fireman. /[-ly adv. latency n.] [Syn. potential quiescent] >> latent  (LAY tint) adj. hidden; present but not visible; inactive —n. a fingerprint left at a crime scene

Mother Teresa’s work with the poor was very laudable. / The rescue workers did a laudable job saving the miners after the shaft collapsed. /[laudably adv.] [praiseworthy] >> laudable  (LAW duh bl) adj. worthy of praise

The mayor was laudatory in his evaluation of the fire department’s work. / The president had nothing but laudatory words for the work of the armed forces. /[lauditorily adv.] >> laudatory  (LAW duh TAW ree) adj. expressing praise or commendation; eulogistic

A lavish amount of green paint was used to cover the brown front lawn./ Jim’s friend Shaila was lavish in her gifts to him./ All the wedding guests lavished attention on the new bride. /[-ed -ing -ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. profuse] >> lavish  (LA vish) adj. 1. very generous in spending or giving; 2. more than enough; abundant —vt. to give or spend abundantly on

A ledger is a bookeeper’s best friend if kept properly. / All expenses of a business as well as all money taken in must be entered in a ledger. / Every front porch’s sides and front are supported by ledger boards. >> ledger  (LED joer) n. 1. the book for final entry of credits and debits; 2. a long horizontal board that helps support ceiling or floor joists

Congress is currently considering legislation to require all citizens to keep physically fit./ The process of legislation usually takes a fairly lengthy amount of time./ There is no legislation requiring that all children be fed ice cream for dessert but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad idea. >> legislation  (LEJ is LAY shin) n. 1. the act or process of making a law; 2. the law itself

Legislators are elected for a specific length of time./ A U.S. senator has the longest term of any American legislator namely 6 years. /[Syn. lawmaker] >> legislator  (LEJ is LAY tir) n. one who makes laws; a member of a legislative body, such as an assemblyman, a congressman, or a senator

Don’t give anybody your personal information online unless you’re 100% certain of that person’s legitimacy./ The legitimacy of backroom poker games is doubtful./ The legitimacy of Virgil’s tracing Rome’s history back to the Trojan War is questionable but artful. /[Syn. lawfulness] >> legitimacy  (li JIT im is ee) n. the quality of being legally correct; lawful; sanc- tioned by law or custom; reasonable and just

A feeling of lethargy overtook Antoine as he neared the end of the long drive. / Often lethargy is a sign of the onset of an illness. /[lethargic adj. lethargically adv.] >> lethargy  (LETH er jee) n. 1. sleepiness or drowsiness; 2. lack of energy to an abnormal degree

Levees are common sights on the lower Mississippi River./ If you’re planning to take a riverboat you just might find yourself on the levee waiting for the Robert E. Lee. >> levee  (LEV ee) n. 1. a retaining wall built beside a river to prevent flooding; a dike; 2. a landing place on the riverbank; 3. a ridge of earth built around a field that is to be irrigated

Archimedes said that if he were given a long enough lever and a fulcrum to rest it on he could move the world. / Probably the lever most adult Americans are familiar with today is in vot- ing machines and is used to open and close the curtain. /[-ed -ing -age n.] >> lever  (LE vir) n. 1. a bar used to pry; 2. a simple machine, consisting of a bar on a pivot (called a fulcrum), used to apply force upward on one end while the other end is pushed downward —vt. to pry something up by the use of a lever

A loose-fitting sweatshirt allows one a liberal amount of arm movement./ The mayor was liberal in his praise for the fire department./ Tina put a liberal amount of strawberry jam on her roll./ Some judges have a liberal interpretation of the meaning of the law./ A university is a place for a liberal exchange of viewpoints. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. progressive (in the political sense)] >> liberal  (LIB ir el) adj. 1. not restricted; 2. generous; 3. plentiful; ample; abundant; 4. not limited to the literal meaning; 5. tolerant of views other than one’s own

Children need a liberal amount of love from their parents. / Some people like to put a liberal amount of butter or jelly on an English muffin. / Scandinavian democracies tend to be more liberal than the United States when providing medical benefits. / Martin Luther would have been considered a liberal in his day. /[-ly adv.] >> liberal  (LIB oer il) adj. 1. freely giving; generous; 2. plentiful; abundant; 3. broadminded; 4. favoring reform; not orthodox

The Library of Congress is one serious collection./ One of the greatest losses to Western civilization was the burning of the Library at Alexandria (Egypt not Virginia)./ Helene and Judy met to do some reading at the public library. >> library  (LY bre ree) n. 1. a collection of books, films, magazines, CDs, etc., espe- cially a large one that is systematically arranged; 2. a public or private institution in charge of such a collection; 3. the building in which the aforementioned is housed

When a car is purchased on a payment plan a bank usually has a lien on it until it is payed off. / If a house has a mortgage you can be certain the bank is holding a lien. / An auto mechanic can get a lien in lieu of unpaid repair bills. >> lien  (LEEN) n. a claim on someone’s property as security for the payment of a debt or loan

The expression “I’m limning a picture” is not one you hear every day. / A good radio sportscaster limns the action of the game so that listeners feel as if they are there. /[-ed -ing] >> limn  (LIM) vt. 1 to paint or draw; 2. to describe (paint a picture) in words

Most automobiles use cotter pins as their linchpins./ Evers was the linchpin of the Cubs great double-play trio Tinkers to Evers to Chance./ The keystone is the linchpin or the true arch. >> linchpin  (LINCH pin) n. 1. a pin that goes through the outer end of an axle to prevent the wheel from falling off; 2. anything that holds the parts of a whole together

Placing something in literal order is another way of saying alphabetizing./ Ben was very literal so when his girlfriend told him to “go jump in the lake” he went looking for a lake to jump into./ Only a few sects nowadays live their lives according to a literal interpreta- tion of Holy Scripture. /[-ly adv.] >> literal  (LIT oer il) adj. 1. having to do with letters of the alphabet; 2. word for word; following the exact words or meaning of the original; 3. interpreting things according to their precise meaning

A library can be thought of as a living museum of literary works./ It is doubtful that anyone ever spoke in the literary language that charac- terizes Shakespeare’s plays./ A literary critic must have enough experience to be able to judge a work against many other examples. >> literary  (LIT oer ER ee) adj. 1. having to do with books or writing; 2. tending toward the more formal, polished language of writing rather than that of everyday speech; 3. familiar with or well versed in literature (the classics)

The literati are likely to have read the works of William Shakespeare. / As a general rule engineers learn their craft but are not counted among the literati. >> literati  (LIT oer AH tee) n. scholarly or learned persons; men or women of letters

The literature of the late twentieth century runs the gamut from the philos- ophy of the existentialists to the adventures of Harry Potter./ The classics of literature comprise a number of books that have survived for centuries and are still being reproduced./ Among the less lasting literature of recent years we must count the bill- boards extolling the merits of certain drinks. >> literature  (LIT er uh TYUR) n. 1. all writings in prose or poetry, especially of an imaginative nature, without regard to their merit, distinguished from those of sci- entific writing, reporting of news, etc.; 2. those writings considered to have lasting merit, either because of their excellence of form or the value of their examples; 3. printed matter of any kind

One of the latest uses of lithium is in power cells for watches and cameras. / Lithium batteries which power laptop computers are quite expensive. >> lithium  (LITH ee uhm) n. a grayish white metallic chemical element; the light- est metallic element

The two litigants entered the courtroom to plead their cases before Judge Judy./ The first litigant was a bride suing the dress alterer for having ruined her wedding. >> litigant  (LIT i gnt) n. a party to a lawsuit

The service in a church mosque or synagogue follows a prescribed liturgy. / Needless to say the liturgy in every religion is unique to that religion. >> liturgy  (LIT oer jee) n. a prescribed ritual for worship in any religious group

Lori’s elbow was livid where she had bumped it./ Barney’s face went livid as if he had seen a ghost./ When Joe saw that he had been charged for the use of the limousine that had not shown up he became livid with rage. /[-ity -ness n.] [Syn. pale] >> livid  (LIV id) adj. 1. discolored by a bruise; 2. lead colored often taken to mean whitish or pale; 3. very angry; enraged

Dina absolutely loathed the combination of green and pink./ Don’t you just loathe being asked where you’d like to eat and then ending up at your friend’s choice of restaurant?/ As a general rule country-and-western music lovers loathe hip-hop. /[-d loathing] [Syn. hate] >> loathe  (LOHTH) vt. to feel intense disgust or distaste for; detest; despise

It used to be very difficult to get antismoking bills passed because of the strength of the tobacco lobbyists./ The word lobbyist is peculiarly American and originated with people but- tonholing legislators in the lobby of the Capitol building on their way to vote on or debate a bill. >> lobbyist  (LAHB ee ist) n. a person in the employ of a special interest group who tries to persuade legislators or government administrators to act in the interest of his/her employers

The rank of general is a lofty one. / Wanting to be a doctor or other professional is a lofty aspiration. / The loftiest peaks in the world are in the Himalayas. /[loftier loftiest adj. loftily adv.] >> lofty  (LAWF tee) adj. 1. very high in rank; 2. elevated, like a mountaintop

A good logo evokes the name of the company without the need to spell it out./ The dog listening to the gramophone horn with the words “his master’s voice” remains a logo of RCA./ Another well-recognized logo is the stylized “3M” of the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Corp. >> logo  (LOH goh) n. a distinctive company symbol, trademark, etc. that is designed to be associated with that company only and to get instant recognition for that company

The normal longevity of a dog is about 15 years but is shorter for larger dogs./ The longevity of a running back’s career in the NFL is less than 5 years. >> longevity  (lawn JEV i tee) n. 1. long life span; length or duration of lives; 2. length of time spent employed or in service to a single company or individual

Siamese cats are known for their loquacity even though what they say is not said in words. / A group of hens exhibits loquacity by almost constant clucking. >> loquacity  (loh KWA si tee) n. talkativeness, especially excessive talkativeness

The use of axle grease as a lubricant in wheel hubs greatly extends the longevity of both wheel and axle./ If left uncorrected the loss of lubricant from a car engine will surely doom the engine. >> lubricant  (LOOB ri kint) n. a substance for reducing friction by being spread on one or both of the moving parts to form a film between them; grease, oil, or graphite

It used to be standard practice at each oil change to lubricate the car’s ball joints./ This practice is no longer followed because most automotive ball joints these days are self-lubricating. /[-d lubricating] >> lubricate  (LOOB ri kayt) vt. 1. to make slippery or smooth; 2. to put a lubricant onto or into —vi. to act as a lubricant

Lucidity should be a requirement for driving a car. / An author’s lucidity governs the reader’s enjoyment of his or her work. / Sometimes those in mental institutions experience periods of lucidity. >> lucidity  (loo SID i tee) n. 1. clarity of mind; 2. the ability to be easily under- stood; 3. a period of sanity in a mental disorder

Tabloids love to feature lurid stories on their front pages to attract the attention of impulse-buying shoppers./ Nothing is as welcome at the box office as a lurid story about an ax murderer or a cannibalistic doctor. >> lurid  (LU rid) adj. harsh or shocking; vivid; sensational; shocking

Polished silver has a lustrous finish. / Gold is lustrous even without being polished because unlike silver it doesn’t oxidize. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. bright] >> lustrous  (LUS tris) adj. shining brightly; glorious

The machinations of the KGB have made for some pretty exciting spy novels./ The Odessa File tells of the machinations of an organization designed to fur- ther the cause of the Nazis after the war. /[Syn. plot] >> machination  (MAK in AY shin) n. a secret or artful plot, usually one having evil intention (usually plural)

The brightness of stars is measured by order of magnitude with white stars being of the highest order. / Some would argue that the magnitude of one’s IQ is a measure of how much they know rather than their intelligence. >> magnitude  (MAG ni tood) adj. greatness of size, volume, brightness, area, and so on

A maladroit person should not be employed as a waiter or waitress. / It is very unusual to find a maladroit cat but Karen has had two of them. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. awkward] >> maladroit  (MAL uh DROYT) adj. clumsy; inept; klutzy

Giving one the evil eye is one form of malediction popular among some European cultures./ Certain Caribbean cultures carry out their maledictions through the use of effigies called voodoo dolls./ The newspaper story about Henry’s drug misuse was a malediction worthy of a healthy sized lawsuit. >> malediction  (MAL I DIK shin) n. 1. a curse or the calling down of an evil spell on someone; 2. evil talk about someone; slander

They have a name for malingering in the army/ it’s goldbricking./ One who malingers and gets a reputation for so doing is not likely to remain employed for very long unless of course his/her employer is his/her parent. /[-ed -ing -er n.] >> malinger  (muh LING oer) vt. to feign illness or injury to avoid work; to shirk

The body-shop worker uses a rubber mallet to hammer out small dents./ A polo mallet has a very long handle because each player must strike the ball while seated on a horse./ Wooden mallets with ball-shaped heads are used to strike the keys on a xylophone. >> mallet  (MAL it) n. 1. a kind of hammer usually with a head of wood (used to drive a chisel) or of hard rubber (used to bang out dents in sheet metal); 2. a long- handled hammer with a cylinder-shaped head used for playing croquet or one with an even longer handle used for playing polo; 3. a small, wooden hammer with a round head used to play xylophone, marimba, glockenspiel, bells, etc.

All animals with hair are mammals. / If an animal has feathers or scales it is not a mammal. / Whales and dolphins are aquatic mammals. >> mammal  (MAM uhl) n. any of a class of warm-blooded vertebrates, most have hair and all are able to feed their young with milk secreted by the female’s mamma- ry glands

As a result of World War I mandates to rule certain areas that used to be parts of the Ottoman Empire were issued by the League of Nations./ The shop foreman has a mandate from ownership to require each worker to put in 16 hours of overtime./ Senator Strong’s overwhelming victory is a mandate for him to pursue equal rights for women./ The new law mandates a $300 fine for overtime parking. /[-d* mandating] >> mandate  (MAN dayt) n. 1. an authoritative order, usually in writing; 2. the overwhelming wishes of an elected official’s constituents, regarded as an order -vt. to require, as by law

One’s fingers are used to manipulate the keys of a computer keyboard. / Con artists specialize in manipulating people into buying things they don’t need or for more money than they can afford to spend. / Manipulating stock prices for one’s personal gain is a federal crime. /[-d manipulating manipulation n.] [Syn. handle] >> manipulate  (muh NIP yoo layt) vt. 1. to work or operate with the hands; 2. to artfully manage or influence someone in an unfair way; 3. to falsify something for one’s own benefit

A carpenter needs good manual dexterity./ Most old-fashioned wells have a manual crank that lifts a bucket on the end of a rope./ To drive a car with a manual transmission you must learn how to use the clutch./ Don’t throw out your DVD manual/ you never know. . . ./ The fingers operate the manual on an organ while the feet play the pedals./ A good soldier must learn the manual of arms. >> manual  (MAN yoo il) adj. 1. of or having to do with the hands; 2. without electrical or other power assist; 3. not automatic (as in an automotive transmission) -n. 1. a book of facts or instructions; 2. any of several organ keyboards; 3. a drill for handling certain weapons

Your report needs to be at least four pages of manuscript double-spaced if typed./ Manuscript is the style of writing we first learn before we are taught to write in cursive./ Until the printing press was invented all books were manuscripts./ Any manuscript submitted to a publisher should be accompanied by an SASE (self-adressed stamped envelope). >> manuscript  (MAN yoo skript) adj. 1. handwritten or typed, but not printed; 2. writing consisting of unconnected letters; not cursive —n. 1. a book or document written by hand; 2. a copy of an author’s work submitted to a printer or publisher; 3. writing, as apart from printing

With her key Joan marred the finish on Bud’s car./ The cries of protesters marred the president’s appearance at the convention. /[-red -ring] >> mar  (MAHR) vt. to injure or damage so as to disfigure; spoil; impair; hurt the appearance

Carol wrote marginal notes in all her textbooks summarizing the content of the page. / Brad earned just enough money for a marginal existence. / Vinny was diagnosed as a marginal schizophrenic. /[-ly adv.] >> marginal  (MAHR jin il) adj. 1. written in the margin of a page; 2. close to the border or limit, especially a lower limit

Agassi had complete mastery on the tennis court./ In the battle between the sexes women achieve mastery about 60% of the time./ Glenn’s lack of mastery of the guitar is what caused his audience to leave the recital during the intermission./ Kim’s years of practice had led to mastery of the art of karate. >> mastery  (MAS tir ee) n. 1. control; rule; 2. the upper hand in a struggle; victory; 3. expert skill or knowledge; 4. accomplishing success in understanding something

The philosophy of materialism enjoyed some popularity in the nineteenth century./ The idea of materialism permeates some of the work of pop singer Madonna—especially in her song “Material Girl.”/ When a person pursues someone of the opposite sex because of the latter’s wealth that is a display of materialism. /[materialistic adj. materialistically adv.] >> materialism  (muh TIR ee uhl i zm) n. 1. the philosophical doctrine that every- thing in the world is matter, and even thought, will, and feeling can be connected to matter (the opposite of idealism); 2. the notion that possessions, wealth, and comfort are the most important things in the world; 3. the tendency to be more concerned with material things than with the intellectual or spiritual

We all need some sort of mathematical education. /A high-quality diamond must be cut with mathematical precision. >> mathematical  (MATH i MAT i kl) adj. 1. of, concerned with, or about mathe- matics; 2. precise; rigorously exact

One of the jobs of a cowboy on a drive is rounding up mavericks./ A maverick politician often votes against the official position of his party’s leadership. >> maverick  (MAV rik) n. 1. a stray calf; any unbranded livestock; 2. a person who takes an independent stand or a position different from that of the rest of his group

“A stitch in time saves nine” is a well-known maxim./ “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you” is a maxim we should all live by. /[Syn. saying] >> maxim  (MAX im) n. a concisely worded statement of truth or rule of conduct

The sheep’s in the meadow the cow’s in the corn. / The horses are out grazing in the meadow. / The meadow grasses are being cut and baled for hay for animal feed over the winter. >> meadow  (ME doh) n. 1. a piece of grassland, especially one used as a pasture or for growing grass for hay; 2. a low grassland near a river or lake

Only time will tell us the meaning of today’s world events./ Sally was meaning to tell Harry how much she cared./ Barbara’s locket’s meaning was a reminder of her mother. /[-ly adv.] >> meaning  (MEE ning) n. significance; import; what is intended to be conveyed, signified, or indicated —adj. 1. intending; having purpose; 2. significance

He had the means to get over the top of the fence./ Margie had the means to buy the very best silver./ The CEO of the software company is a woman of great means. >> means  (MEENZ) n. 1 the way in which something is done; agency; 2. available wealth; resources; 3. great wealth

Most of the media in the United States are driven by advertising dollars./ Since the advent of television the roles played by the print media have tended to become more specialized. >> media  (MEE dee uh) n. all means of communication, such as radio, television, cinema, and print matter that provide the public with news and entertainment

The Taft-Hartley Act calls for strikers to return to work for an 80-day cooling-down period while mediators try to broker a settlement between workers and management. / A mediator is often used to settle disputes between a company and a dissat- isfied customer. / When both sides agree in advance to abide by the mediator’s decision it is known as binding arbitration. >> mediator  (MEE dee AY toer) n. a person who serves as an intermediary for bringing about a peaceful solution to a problem between two or more persons, groups, companies, and so on

The quality of prime-time TV shows has over the years been mediocre with the best shows airing after 10 P.M./ For the most part packaged supermarket baked goods are mediocre when compared with freshly baked goods. >> mediocre  (MEE dee OH kir) adj. 1. of average quality; not too good, not too bad; 2. inferior; not good enough

After the first half of watching the football game at the tavern a melee broke out among the patrons./ Sangria is a melee of citrus fruits and red wine served over ice. >> melee  (MAY lay) n. 1. a noisy or confused struggle or brawl among a number of people; 2. a confused mixture

Melodrama is typical of daytime soap operas with lots of gesticulating and grand gestures./ Silent films were filled with melodrama in contrived scenes such as the heroine’s being tied to the tracks as the train approaches. /[-tic adj. -tically adv.] >> melodrama  (MEL uh DRAH muh) n. 1. a play or film concerned with exagger- ated conflict and sensational overacting stereotypical characters; 2. any sensational hyperemotional acting, utterance, etc.

Every living cell is contained within a membrane. / Modern coffeemakers use a membrane called a filter to hold the coffee grounds and keep them out of your cup. >> membrane  (MEM brayn) n. 1. a soft, thin, pliable sheet of animal or vegetable tissue that protects an organ, and through which dissolved nutrients can pass; 2. any thin sheet meant to separate or filter

Lou Gehrig’s farewell address was a memorable moment in sports history as was Jackie Robinson’s breaking baseball’s color line./ September 11 2001 is probably as memorable a date for today’s generation as was December 7 1941 for the World War II generation. /[memorably adv. memorability n.] >> memorable  (MEM uh ri bl) adj. worth remembering; notable

Athenian philosopher Aristotle was a mentor to Alexander of Macedon also know as Alexander the Great./ Julius Caesar was a mentor to Octavian who later became the first Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. >> mentor  (MEN tir) n. 1. a wise advisor; 2. a teacher, coach, or active role model -vi., vt. to act as an advisor or teacher

A mercenary worker welcomes the opportunity to work at a dangerous job for high pay. / High steelworkers are not just mercenary but rather have a knack for work- ing in high places. / Hessian troops were mercenaries who fought for the British during the American Revolutionary War. >> mercenary  (MOER sin ER ee) adj. 1. working exclusively for money, rather than for an ideal; 2. seeking payment —n. 1. a soldier working for pay in the army of another country, or in a paid private military force; 2. a person who will do nearly anything for money

Fever thermometers used to be mercurial but now few are. / A speedy messenger could be called mercurial in the classical sense of the word. / A good businessman should have mercurial qualities. >> mercurial  (mer KYUR ee il) adj. 1. of or containing the element mercury; 2. having qualities attributed to the god Mercury—for example, cleverness, shrewd- ness, eloquence; 3. quick; quick witted; changeable; fleeting

Fishing is thought by some to be merely a blood sport rather than a form of relaxation./ Mighty Mouse is merely a muscular mouse in yellow and red tights and cape. metamorphose* (met uh MAWR fohz) vt. to change in form or in nature/ to transform/ to undergo metamorphosis / The caterpillar can be seen to metamorphose into a moth or butterfly./ A tadpole will metamorphose into a frog or toad./ Now metamorphose your frown into a smile/ it uses fewer muscles. /[-d metamorphosing] [Syn. transform] >> merely  (MEER lee) adv. no more than; only; and nothing else

Metaphor is skillfully used by Shakespeare although it is sometimes mixed as in “. . . to take arms against a sea of troubles and by opposing drown them.”/ A metaphor is like a simile which is what the first part of this sentence is. >> metaphor  (MET uh fawr) n. a figure of speech containing an implied compari- son, but not using like or as (which would make it a simile), for example, “raining cats and dogs,” but not “that pepper is as hot as fire”

The surgeon proceeded with the operation in a methodical manner./ The floor waxer was methodical making sure that he got every square inch of the room. /[methodic adj. -ly adv.] >> methodical  (meth AH dik uhl) adj. orderly and systematic

The model builder was meticulous in his attention to getting the rigging just right./ The chef was meticulous in making sure that no raw meat came in contact with ingredients meant for the salad. >> meticulous  (mi TIK you luhs) adj. extremely careful about detail; paying care- ful attention; scrupulous

Dwight Eisenhower exhibited his mettle as a wartime leader in Europe. / Boeing’s B-29 Superfortress showed its mettle as a long-range bomber dur- ing the war in the Pacific. / Aluminum has shown its mettle as the metal of choice for building airplanes. >> mettle  (MET il) n. quality of temperament and character, especially high quali- ty; steadfast; reliable; brave

Walter was miffed at his shoddy treatment by the produce supplier./ Audrey went to school in a good humor but was soon miffed at what she heard. /[miffing (to) miff vi. vt.] >> miffed  (MIFT) vt. (past) offended; put out of good humor

Fran thrived in the party milieu. / Kenneth was much more comfortable in an intellectual milieu than he was in a sporting arena. / A symphony orchestra’s milieu is the concert hall. >> milieu  (mil YU) n. one’s surroundings or environment, especially a cultural or social setting

Many great comedians have developed their comic senses of timing through mimicry of the late Jack Benny./ For the chameleon mimicry of the color of its environment is the way in which it protects itself keeping it hidden from potential predators. >> mimicry  (MIM ik REE) n. 1. the practice, art, instance, or way of imitating; 2. a close resemblance in color, form, or behavior of one organism to another, or of an organism to an inanimate object in its environment (for the purpose of concealment)

Making minatory remarks to someone can get one into deep trouble. / Tigers are known to make minatory gestures to warn people or other ani- mals to stay back—unless they are hunting. /[minatorily adv.] >> minatory  (MIN uh taw ree) adj. menacing or threatening

One usually minces parsley before adding it to recipes. / Chefs are able to mince onion with a chef’s knife but the average home cook is better off using a chopping machine. / The dean prefers not to mince words when pointing out the errors of one of the student’s ways. /[-d mincing] >> mince  (MINS) vt. 1 to chop or cut into tiny pieces; 2. to weaken or lessen the force of

It’s odd to consider coal to be a mineral because millions of years ago it was alive./ Veins of minerals like gold and silver can be chipped from surrounding rocks./ Ocean water is rich in minerals as well as in animal and plant life./ The mineral most necessary for all existing life is oxygen. >> mineral  (MIN oer il) n. 1. an inorganic substance in nature with certain physi- cal and/or chemical properties; such a substance that is organic in origin, such as coal; 2. ore; 3. anything not animal or vegetable; 4. any element needed by plants or animals for growth, like oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorous, iron, etc.

Veronica was a misanthrope and was absolutely no fun to be around. / A misanthrope might hate or distrust everyone but he can be the life of the party. >> misanthrope  (MIS in throhp) n. a person who hates or distrusts everybody else

Comic books are filled with superheroes and super miscreants. / Not all miscreants end up in prison but many people think they should. /[miscreancy n.] >> miscreant  (MIS cree int) n. an evildoer; criminal; villain —adj. villainous; evil

The classical story of a miser is that of King Midas who was granted the ability to turn everything he touched into gold. / Misers are likely to live a shabby life because it is the acquisition of money rather than the good life that they crave. /[-ly adv.] >> miser  (MY zer) n. a greedy person who hoards money even at the expense of his or her own comfort

Did you ever have misgivings about going to a certain place or event?/ Richard had no misgivings about having been to the Rock Festival at Woodstock. /[Syn. qualm] >> misgiving  (mis GIV ing) n. qualm; doubt; apprehension; disturbed feeling of doubt

Running into the lamppost was just a mishap./ When you’re dressed up it’s a good idea to drink nothing but colorless liq- uids in case a mishap causes your drink to land on your clothes. /[Syn. accident] >> mishap  (MIS hap) n. accident; an unlucky or unfortunate occurrence

When the electronics clerk said he’d have the part in by the next morning he was being misleading./ The directions included with the invitation were misleading because they omitted the mention of one turn./ Jackie’s mom wanted her to avoid having friends with poor study habits worrying they might be misleading her with their careless ways. /[(to) mislead vt. misled p. -ly adv.] [Syn. deceive] >> misleading  (mis LEED ing) adj. leading in the wrong direction; deceptive -vt. 1. leading to error; deceiving; deluding; 2. influencing badly; leading to wrongdoing; leading astray

The missing-man formation is used by combat pilots to honor a lost comrade./ Frank was missing at his class’s morning roll call. >> missing  (MIS ing) adj. absent; lost; lacking; missing after combat but not known to be dead or captured

The doctor told Gail to take aspirin to mitigate the pain./ The severe weather of the past week will mitigate as the cold front comes through./ Repeated exercise will mitigate the stiffness in your joints. /[-d mitgating] [Syn. relieve] >> mitigate  (MIT i GAYT) vt. to lessen; to make or become less severe; to moder- ate; to make or become less rigorous or painful

It’s traditional for teenagers to mock each others’ actions./ Dottie mocked Dan by putting on a baseball cap at a cocked angle and speaking in her lowest vocal range./ The castle mocked the invading army’s attempts to storm its walls./ Most New York street scenes seen in older movies are mock having been shot on a studio back lot./ Mock turtle soup does not harm any turtles mock or otherwise. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. imitate ridicule] >> mock  (MAHK) vt. 1 to ridicule or expose to scorn; 2. to imitate as in having fun or deriding; to make fun of; 3. to defy and lead to futility —n. an imitation or counterfeit —adj. false; imitation; sham

Everything should be done in moderation including moderation itself./ Partying in moderation means that you’re likely to have a good time and to remember it the next day./ Both parties to the dispute acted with moderation so that no fighting erupted. >> moderation  (MAH doer AY shin) n. 1. bringing within bounds; 2. avoiding excesses or extremes; 3. calmness; absence of violence

Grandpa likes to tell tall tales so take everything he tells you with a modicum of salt./ You need not use a lot of ground pepper when seasoning your roast/ usually just a modicum is needed. >> modicum  (MAH di kim) n. a small amount; a bit (with of )

One must modulate what to expect from a child in accordance with the child’s age./ A great opera singer is one with the ability to modulate his or her voice./ AM radio is amplitude modulated while FM is frequency modulated. /[-d modulating modulator n.] >> modulate  (MAHD yoo LAYT) vt. 1. to adjust or to regulate to the appropriate degree; 2. change the pitch or intensity, usually to a lower level; 3. (radio) to vary the amplitude or frequency of a wave’s oscillation in accordance with some signal

At the molecular level certain forces hold atoms together. / Molecular study is possible with the electron microscope. >> molecular  (muh LEK yoo loer) adj. consisting of, produced by, or being between molecules

A molecule of the element oxygen consists of two oxygen atoms and is represented by the symbol O2. / A molecule of water contains three atoms two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom and is represented by the symbol H2O. / Flora had a molecule of hope that she’d succeed. >> molecule  (MAH lik YOOL) n. 1. the smallest particle of an element or com- pound that exists and still retains the properties of that element or compound; 2. a very small particle

The Wright Brothers’ first powered flight in 1903 was a momentous occa- sion for human travel./ Deciding whether or not to apply to college is a momentous decision. /[-ly adv.] >> momentous  (moh MEN tis) adj. very important; of great moment

Henry VIII and Edward VIII were the highest numbered monarchs of England./ Elvis Presley is called the king which makes him the monarch of rock./ Wal-Mart is the monarch of retail sales. >> monarch  (MAH nahrk) n. 1. hereditary ruler, such as a king or queen; 2. the best; 3. the top performer in a certain field

Before its being broken up into the so-called “Baby Bells” AT&amp/T had a monopoly in the telecommunications business./ Under President Teddy Roosevelt antitrust legislation was passed to pro- hibit monopolies from getting a strangle hold on any one industry./ Two-year-olds Jakob and Myles have a monopoly of their mothers’ time. /[monopolies pl.] [Syn. trust cartel] >> monopoly  (muh NAH pi lee) n. 1. exclusive control of a type of product or service; 2. exclusive possession of something

The code of morality in the Western world is based on the Judaeo-Christian tradition./ The treatment of certain prisoners in Iraq violated the dictates of morality. >> morality  (maw RAL i tee) n. 1. code of proper behavior according to traditions, religious laws, etc.; 2. the property of rightness in conduct or ethics

Nomadic tribes live by mores alone having no formal code of laws. / Often one’s mores can serve to tell one what is right and what is not right. >> mores  (maw RAYZ) n. traditional behaviors that seem so conducive to the welfare of a group that they come to have the force of law and sometimes even become part of the legal code

A morose comic character walks around with a dark cloud over his head wherever he goes./ When asked what the probability was of staying out of the course of the storm the pilot’s facial expression was morose. >> morose  (maw ROHS) adj. 1. bad tempered; sullen; gloomy; 2. distinguished by gloom

Most homeowners owe banks with the person who lives in the home making regular mortgage payments. / When a mortgage has been paid off the bank delivers the deed to the new homeowner. / Charles mortgaged his future with college loans. >> mortgage  (MAWR gidzh) n. 1. the pledging of a property as security for a sum of money; 2. the deed that a mortgager holds —vt. 1. to put an advance claim or liability on; 2. to pledge property by a mortgage

Looking down the barrel of a gun is usually an adequate motivation to hand over your money./ A method actor needs some sort of motivation to get into the role of the character he’s playing. >> motivation  (MOH ti VAY shin) n. an incitement or impelling; the cause that makes someone do something

Greed is often a good motive for robbery./ The motive for Arnold’s saving every nickel he earned was his desire to pur- chase an automobile. >> motive  (MOH tiv) n. an inner drive that causes a person to do something, or to act in a certain way; goal

Each motor vehicle contains a special part designed to muffle the roar that the engine makes but we won’t tell you its name./ A scarf wrapped around someone’s mouth and lower face is often referred to as a muffler in that it muffles any speech coming from the wearer’s mouth./ Murderers on TV often use silencers to muffle the sound of the gunshot. /[-d. muffling] >> muffle  (MUH fil) vt. 1. to dull a sound; stifle; 2. to wrap in a shawl or blanket to deaden a sound

The clergy of the Middle Ages lived much more mundane lives than their calling might have led one to expect./ The peacock is an outstandingly beautiful bird while the pigeon is consid- erably more mundane. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. earthly] >> mundane  (muhn DAYN) adj. 1. earthly, as distinguished from heavenly or spiritual; 2. ordinary; everyday

Andrew Carnegie was noted for his munificent donations to artistic causes./ John D. Rockefeller’s descendants have proven very munificent in trying to distribute some of the wealth that the family’s patriarch amassed from his businesses. /[-ly adv munificence n.] >> munificent  (myoo NIF is int) adj. 1. very generous; giving lavishly; 2. distin- guished for great generosity

Museums can be as different as the District of Columbia’s Air and Space Museum and its National Museum of Natural History./ The Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown New York is a museum devoted exclusively to the sport of baseball. >> museum  (myoo ZEE im) n. a room, institution, or building for displaying and/or showcasing artifacts, works of art, or items associated with a person, activity, etc.

Yolanda was in a musing frame of mind as she thought over the day’s events./ Yoga teaches the benefits of musing for a set amount of time each day. /[-ly adv.] >> musing  (MYOO zing) adj. meditative; pondering —n. meditation; reflection

Muskrats have been known as have other rodents to carry disease./ Imitation mink coats are usually made of muskrat. >> muskrat  (MUHS krat) n. 1. any of the various glossy, brown-furred American rodents with a musky odor that are adapted by webbed hind feet for living in water; 2. such an animal’s fur

Some trumpet players used to play their trumpets into a hat to mute the sound. / A muted trumpet does not have the blare of an open-belled one. / Certain artists are known for their use of muted colors. / Pastel colors are muted rather than intense. / A mute is a person without the ability to vocalize sounds. /[-d muting] [Syn. subdue] >> mute  (MYOOT) vt. 1 to soften or muffle the sound of a musical instrument; 2. to subdue the intensity of a color —adj. softened; subdued —n. a person who cannot speak

Neil tended to mutter and it was necessary to pay very close attention to make out what he was saying./ Laura muttered to the floor cleaners about what a shabby job they had done./ When Sebastian saw what he owed in income taxes for the year he began to mutter profanities. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. murmur] >> mutter  (MUH dir) vi. 1. to speak in a low, indistinct voice; 2. to complain —vt. to say something in low, often angry tones

Look up in the sky on a clear night away from city lights and you’ll find a myriad of stars and other glowing bodies./ Myriads of ocean worshippers flock to the seaside each summer. >> myriad  (MI ree uhd) n. a very large number; countless; innumerable; a great number of persons or things

There is something mystifying about a man wearing a cape and carrying a walking stick./ Many claim that the income tax code is mystifying by design rather than circumstance. /[-ly adv. mystification n.] >> mystifying  (MIS ti FY ing) adj. 1. puzzling; bewildering; perplexing; 2. made obscure or difficult to understand

The fact that the refrigerator’s light goes out when the door is closed is considered mythical by some children (and by some adults)./ A dragon is a mythical creature which never really existed. >> mythical  (MITH i kil) adj. 1. imaginary; fictitious; not scientifically proven; 2. existing only in myths

The Watergate scandal was the nadir of Richard Nixon’s career. / The nadir on earth is in the Marianas Trench. / The moon is at its nadir when it is closest to earth. >> nadir  (NAY duhr) n. 1. lowest point; 2. the point on a celestial sphere directly opposite the zenith

Lara was too naive to know what to order at the French restaurant so she trusted Buddy to order for her./ Vic left his portable DVD player on the front seat of his open convertible and was naive enough to expect that it would still be there when he returned. >> naive  (nah EEV) adj. 1. innocent; unworldly; childlike; unsophisticated; 2. unsuspicious; credulous

Nancy is narcissistic enough to spend 6 hours every day in front of a full- length mirror./ Hector is wealthy enough to be able to afford his narcissistic nature having hired six full-time servants to see to his every need. /[-ally adv. narcissism n.] >> narcissistic  (NAHR si SIS tik) adj. loving one’s self; having an excessive interest in one’s own appearance, comfort, importance, etc.

H. G. Wells’s The Time Machine is a narrative told from the vantage point of the machine’s inventor./ “Call me Ishmael” is the opening sentence of Melville’s Moby Dick and introduces the reader to the identity of the narrative’s teller./ In Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea it is unclear whose narrative the tale is. /[Syn. story] >> narrative  (NA ruh TIV) adj. 1. in story form; taking the nature of a narration; 2. occupied with narration —n. a story; tale

Compared to the civilizations of Europe and Asia that of the United States is nascent. / A young child’s view of the world is nascent and is shaped by parents as well as environment. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. starting] >> nascent  (NAY sint) adj. 1. beginning to form, start, grow; 2. being born

The Spanish Inquisition used nefarious means to identify so-called heretics./ Joseph McCarthy was nefarious in his “red baiting” tactics during the 1950s communist witch hunts. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> nefarious  (ni FAER ee uhs) adj. very wicked; underhanded; most villainous; iniquitous

The difference between a 30-gram and a 29-gram portion of flour is negligi- ble to the naked eye./ The ineffective diet that Shaila was on for 7 weeks had a negligible influ- ence on her weight. /[negligibly adv.] >> negligible  (NEG li jib il) adj. small enough to be disregarded; hardly noticeable; trifling

Mrs. Higgins was a real nitpicker and would deduct points from an essay for every undotted j or i in a handwritten creative paper./ To nitpick originally meant to pick tiny nits (lice eggs) out of someone’s hair by using a comb or tweezers/ it’s not too hard to see how nitpicker today describes someone who obsesses over tiny details. /[nitpick vi.] >> nitpicker  (NIT pik oer) n. one who finds fault with petty details; one who pays too much attention to little things that shouldn’t ordinarily matter; one who is petty or overly finicky

Cigarette smoking is noisome in every sense of the word. / Playing with explosives can be a very noisome pursuit. / When purchasing fish for dinner use your nose and if the fish is noisome reject it. /[-ly adv.] >> noisome  (NOI suhm) adj. 1. harmful; dangerous to one’s health; 2. having a foul odor

In the nomenclature of computers ROM is read-only memory while RAM is random-access memory./ A dele is a deletion parens are parentheses and a graph is a paragraph in the nomenclature of proofreading. >> nomenclature  (NOH min KLAY chir) n. 1. a set of names that is peculiar to a particular field (for example, ROM and RAM in computers) or terms exclusive to biology or another science; 2. the act or system of naming

Beth greeted the news of Amy’s marrying her old boyfriend John with nonchalance./ There was an air of nonchalance on the face of the killer as he mowed down the nest of termites with his spray gun. /[Syn. equanimity] >> nonchalance  (NAHN shuh LAHNS) n. the state or quality of not showing warmth or interest in something; coolness; showing a lack of concern

Kenny drove a nondescript car from the mid to late ’60s./ The only way Jim could describe Edna’s neighborhood was shabby but as for any particular features it was just nondescript. >> nondescript  (NAHN dis KRIPT) adj. 1. hard to classify because of a lack of recognizable qualities; 2. dull; uninteresting

Nostalgia for things past is demonstrated by some of the automobiles that have achieved popularity at the start of the twenty-first century. / There is a big market for old dolls and other nostalgia from the childhood of today’s older adults as they seek to recapture their past. / Nostalgia was captured by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz with the quote “There’s no place like home!” /[Syn. homesickness] >> nostalgia  (naws TAL juh) n. 1. a longing to return to past, happier times; 2. a longing to return home or to familiar things; 3. old things that remind us of the past

Parents are responsible for nourishing their children physically emotionally and—some might add—spiritually. / A friendship needs to be nourished to keep it healthy and thriving. / Celia does not wish to nourish Lou’s belief that they have a future together. >> nourish  (NOER ish) vt. 1. to feed or sustain a plant or animal with food and water; 2. to foster, develop, or promote a feeling, habit, relationship, and so on

The Fosbury Flop was a rather novel approach to the high jump track-and- field event./ When it comes to recreational reading Marianne finds a novel much more satisfying than a book of short stories. >> novel  (NAH vil) adj. new; unusual —n. a relatively long piece of fictional prose with a complicated plot

Thomas Edison made a fortune from the novelistic idea that sounds could be recorded on a wire. / Truly novelistic ideas should be copyrighted or patented to keep them safe from unscrupulous people. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. unique] >> novelistic  (NAH vil IS tik) adj. unique; different; the first of its kind

Despite his tenants’ having a difficult time coming up with the rent Simon Legree was obdurate in his intention to evict them./ Although Susan tried to get her employer to allow her to work flexible hours so that she could take some courses the manager remained obdurate in insisting she stick to a fixed schedule. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. inflexible] >> obdurate  (AHB dyoo RAYT) adj. 1. not easily moved to feeling empathy; 2. not readily giving in; stubborn; inflexible

The hypotenuse of a right triangle is always oblique to both of the triangle’s legs./ Despite Joe’s trying to get a direct answer from his supervisor as to whether his taking vacation time would impair his chances of promotion the supervisor’s answers remained oblique./ The lawyer tried to pin Alice down on how much of the conversation she had overheard but she was oblique in most of her responses. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> oblique  (oh BLEEK) adj. 1. Neither vertical, nor horizontal, but slanting; 2. indirect rather than to the point; 3. evasive and underhanded

Because the soldier had taken care to completely camouflage his position despite the enemy’s closeness his presence remained in obscurity./ Elvis’s presence at the top of the pop music scene elevated him to the limelight from near obscurity./ The obscurity of the wording of the contract made it difficult to determine what was expected from either party. /[obscurities pl.] >> obscurity  (ahb SKYUR i tee) n. the condition or quality of being difficult to perceive, hard to see, not well known, vague, or ambiguous

The observation of the Sabbath was a key part of Allan’s upbringing./ Helen’s observation of a stranger near her car made her suspicious./ The burglar kept low to the ground hoping to elude everyone’s observation./ Kenny’s observations during the chemical experiment were kept in his chemistry notebook./ Rosa noticed the mismatch of Pedro’s socks and could not help making an observation to him. /[Syn. remark] >> observation  (AHB zir VAY shin) n. 1. the following or keeping a law, custom, principle, etc.; 2. a noticing of something; 3. being seen or noticed; 4. the noting and recording of facts; 5. a comment or remark

His obsessiveness with being right all the time has driven away all his friends./ Xavier has pursued excellence in the field of motorsports with an obsessiveness that can only be described as being driven (no pun intended). >> obsessiveness  (ahb SES iv nis) n. 1. having the nature of being haunted by something; 2. a being preoccupied by some emotion, thought, desire, etc. in defi- ance of reason

North American Aviation’s P-51 Mustang is an obsolete fighter plane but was the best fighter of World War II. / The horse and buggy is an obsolete form of transportation. / The dial telephone has been obsolete for years. /[Syn. passé] >> obsolete  (AHB sil EET) adj. out of fashion; no longer used; no longer current; discarded

Police barriers are obstacles meant to keep fans back from parades during festive occasions./ Lack of a high school diploma or equivalency diploma can be a real obstacle to getting a college degree. >> obstacle  (AHB stik il) n. anything that gets in the way or hinders; impediment; obstacle; barrier

College students at a fraternity party generally turn obstreperous after a couple of hours./ The opposition party member was obstreperous in his outcry against the position of the prime minister. /[Syn. vociferous] >> obstreperous  (ahb STRE pir us) adj. noisy, unruly, or boisterous, especially in one’s opposition to something

Some people believe that practitioners of voodoo have occult powers. / Sarah wanted her study of Tae Kwan Do to stay occult. / Rasputin is an occult figure in Russian history. /[ly adv.] [Syn. esoteric] >> occult  (uh KULT) adj. 1. secret; mysterious; 2. hidden; 3. having powers beyond human understanding

Stalin when leading the USSR was guilty of some very odious deeds. / No one has ever been as odious as Adolph Hitler. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. hateful] >> odious  (OH dee uhs) adj. deserving or causing hatred, loathing, and so on

The odium of those hurt by the Nazi regime was quite well earned. / Odium toward Saddam Hussein still exists among Iraqis who sought refuge in other countries. >> odium  (OH dee uhm) n. 1. the condition of being hated; 2. hatred, especially toward a person or despised thing; 3. the disgrace caused by hateful action; opprobrium

In the game of chess white always starts out on the offensive even though it doesn’t always remain such./ In volleyball the offensive side is the one with the serve./ Offensive action is needed to clean up toxic waste sites./ A skunk’s odor is extremely offensive to most. >> offensive  (aw FEN siv) adj. 1. attacking; 2. designating the side that is seeking to score in a contest; 3. aggressive; 4. unpleasant; disgusting; repugnant

Seeing to it that packages were shipped out on time was the office assigned to Stanley./ It was Hillary’s desire to change things that caused her to run for office./ The post office sees to the delivery of the mail six days a week and rests on the seventh./ The senators’ offices are for the most part unsurprisingly in the Senate Office Building. /[Syn. position function] >> office  (AWF is) n. 1. a function or duty assigned to someone; 2. a post or posi- tion of trust and/or authority; 3. any government branch; 4. the room, suite, or building occupied by people in definition #2 or #3

An oligarchy traditionally consisted of rulers from the aristocratic class of nobles. / The government of Communist China is (as of this writing) an oligarchy with power in the hands of the Central Committee of the Communist Party. >> oligarchy  (OH li GAHR kee) n. a form of government in which power belongs to few; an aristocracy

The onerous task of cutting wood for the winter is tedious as well as diffi- cult/ that’s what makes it onerous./ A job that requires a great amount of energy and pays a very small return is onerous./ Slave labor is the perfect example of onerous work. >> onerous  (OH nir is) adj. 1. laborious; burdensome; 2. more burdensome than rewarding

Room-darkening shades are opaque so that light cannot pass through them. / To all but a few people nuclear physics is an opaque subject. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. obscure] >> opaque  (oh PAYK) adj.1. incapable of allowing light to pass through, as distinct from transparent or translucent; 2. hard to understand; obscure

The navy will carry the fight to our opponent./ The opponents sat across the chess board from each other./ Sometimes we must sit down with our opponents and try to work things out. /[Syn. adversary enemy foe] >> opponent  (uh POH nint) n. a person against one in a fight, argument, debate, etc.

Every person deserves an opportunity to succeed./ Billy is looking for an opportunity for advancement./ The United States has been called the land of opportunity. /[opportunities pl.] >> opportunity  (AHP oer TOO ni tee or AHP oer TYOO ni tee) n. 1. a good chance; 2. a set of circumstances favorable to

Oppression can have a paralyzing effect on a person’s ability to act./ The oppression of slavery was a terrible weight on many Americans prior to the Civil War./ The oppression of separate-but-equal educational opportunities that were inherently unequal was not legally terminated until almost a century after the Civil War. /[oppressive adj. oppressively adv.] >> oppression  (uh PRESH in) n. 1. a weighing heavily on the mind, spirit, or soul; worry; troubling; 2. a keeping down by cruel or unjust use of power; 3. a feeling of being weighed down as with worries or problems

Opprobrium greeted the regime of Benito Mussolini for its invasion of what is now Ethiopia in the 1930s. / Any person or country that infringes on the civil rights of any person or group is deserving of opprobrium. >> opprobrium  (uh PROH bree uhm) n. 1. the disgrace or infamy brought on by association with a very shameful or reproachful act or event; 2. anything bringing shame or disgrace

If you believe that bad will be vanquished and good will win in the end then you are a practitioner of optimism./ Optimism permits one to look at a half empty container of chocolate milk and see it as half full. /[optimistic adj. optimistically adv.] >> optimism  (AHP ti mi zm) n. 1. the belief that good triumphs over evil; 2. the tendency to take the most cheerful point of view or hope for the best possible outcome

An orator was a person who impressed and swayed his listeners before the days of telecommunication./ Cicero was perhaps the orator of greatest fame to emerge from the senate of ancient Rome. /[oration n.] [Syn. declaimer] >> orator  (AW ruh tir) n. 1. a person who delivers a formal public speech; 2. an eloquent public speaker

An orb is round no matter how you look at it. / As an orb I’m sure you’ll agree the earth is nice to have around. / To appreciate that an eyeball is an orb you’ll have to see one outside of the skull. >> orb  (AWRB) n. 1 a sphere or globe; 2. any of the celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, planets, stars; 3. the eyeball

Peach orchards dot the countryside in certain parts of Georgia./ In New York’s southern Catskill Mountains it is common to find roads lined by apple orchards. >> orchard  (AWR chird) n. 1. an area of land set aside for the raising of fruit- bearing trees; 2. such a stand of trees; a grove of fruit trees

As a general rule the most expensive seats in the theater are the front and center orchestra seats./ The United States is fortunate to have at least five world-class symphony orchestras./ The instruments of the orchestra are divided into strings brass woodwinds and percussion. >> orchestra  (AWR kes truh) n. 1. the main floor of a theater; 2. a large musical ensemble, specifically a symphony orchestra; 3. the instruments of definition 2

In 1789 the framers ordained the U.S. Constitution to be the law of the country./ Some people believe that the future is ordained and no matter what we do we can’t change it./ New clergypersons are ordained usually from among the ranks of the seminarians. /[-ed -ing -ment ordination n.] >> ordain  (awr DAYN) vt. 1. to order; establish; decree; 2. to predestine; predeter- mine; 3. to invest with the office of a rabbi, minister, or priest

The Nile River’s origin is in Lake Victoria./ The origin of the practical home computer can be traced to Steve Wozniak’s garage./ Musical drama with fixed songs and story lines had its origin with the operas of Giuseppi Verdi. /[Syn. source inception] >> origin  (AWR i jin) n. 1. a beginning; a coming into existence; 2. the birth; lineage; parenthood; 3. that in which something has its root, source, cause, etc.

The person who wrote “Roses are red violets are blue monkeys are hairy and so are you” can hardly lay claim to having any originality./ When it comes to cooking contests originality in use of seasonings usually plays a large part in determining the winner. >> originality  (uh RIJ in AL i tee) n. 1. the quality or condition of never having occurred before; 2. the ability to be creative or inventive

Corinthian capitals (column tops) are known for their exceptionally ornate decoration./ Paganini was an exceptionally gifted violinist and some of his composi- tions are so ornate that nobody else can play them. >> ornate  (awr NAYT) adj. 1. heavily adorned, often to excess; 2. showy or flowery, as in some musical or literary styles

The orthodox politician makes it a point not to offend any potential voters./ Admiral Yamamoto’s unorthodox reliance on aircraft carriers was the main reason for early Japanese successes in World War II./ The Catholic Church celebrates Easter at a different time from the Orthodox Church. /[-y* n.] [Ant. unorthodox] >> orthodox  (AWR thuh DAHKS) n. 1. conforming to the established beliefs and doctrines (as in religion, politics, etc.); 2. designating any of the churches of the Eastern Orthodox Church

There was an ostensible misunderstanding between the valet parking attendant and his client./ An ostensible difference of opinion exists between those voting for one candidate and those supporting the other. /[ostensibly adv.] >> ostensible  (ahs TEN sib il) adj. apparent; seeming; professed

The lobby of the Ritz Carlton Hotel can only be described as slightly ostentatious as one would expect./ As a Harvard graduate Andrew felt it necessary to place his diploma in an ostentatious frame in his law office. /[-ly adv. ostentation n.] >> ostentatious  (AHS tin TAY shuhs) adj. showy display of wealth or learning; pretentious

In ancient Athens a man’s name might be written on a broken piece of pottery and if enough ostra had his name on it an ostracism took place/ that is he was banished./ Ostracism is a rather cruel form of social punishment. /[ostracize v. ostracized ostracizing] [Syn. banish] >> ostracism  (AHS truh sizm) n. barring; banishment; excluding (from the ancient Greek word ostra, for a shard of pottery)

One who has been ostracized is an outcast./ Persons serving jail time for having committed crimes can be considered social outcasts. >> outcast  (OWT kast) n. one cast out; a person or thing rejected by society

When a coin is tossed there are two possible outcomes./ The outcome of a day at the beach is too often a sunburn. /[Syn. effect] >> outcome  (OWT kuhm) n. result; consequence

It is against the law in most states to carry a concealed weapon but the laws governing the carrying of an overt weapon differ from state to state. / Most parents are very overt in their love for their children. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. open] >> overt  (oh VOERT) adj. not hidden; open; apparent; public; manifest; observable

An artist’s palette usually contains only the colors that he is using to make a particular painting./ During Picasso’s blue period his palette was heavily tilted in the direction of that color. >> palette  (PAL it) n. 1. a thin board, usually with a thumbhole, on which an artist mixes paint colors; 2. the colors used by a certain artist for a certain painting or paintings

Margaret had been out of the sun for so long that her face had taken on an unhealthy pallid color. /[Syn. pale] >> pallid  (PAL id) adj. pale; wan; faint in color

It is customary in Japanese Kabuki theater for characters to pantomime while made up in whiteface./ In Mel Brooks’s Silent Movie everyone pantomimed except for the famous mime Marcel Marceau who spoke the only word./ Pantomiming is a way of conveying information to one’s teammates in the game of charades. /[-d pantomiming] >> pantomime  (PAN tuh MYM) vt. 1. a play or presentation wherein the charac- ters perform actions and gesticulate, but speak no words; 2. an actor or actress who performs in this way; 3. actions and gestures without words used as a means of expression

A child’s education both intellectually and socially is of paramount impor- tance to society./ The meaning of what they say is not paramount for the French/ rather it’s how they pronounce it. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. dominant] >> paramount  (PA ruh mownt) adj. ranking above all others; utmost; chief; supreme

Sometimes their maternal instincts cause women to take in parasites who prey upon their better nature./ Tapeworms are parasites that can live inside a person’s intestines and take all the nourishment ingested for themselves. /[parasitic adj. parasitically adv.] >> parasite  (PA ruh syt) n. 1. one who lives at the expense of others and con- tributes nothing in return; 2. an organism that lives on or in another, getting nour- ishment from the host but contributing nothing useful and sometimes causing harm, for example, a leech

Frozen vegetables are parboiled for a minute or more before freezing—a process known as blanching./ Saunas are excellent places for parboiling people. /[-ed -ing] >> parboil  (PAR boyl) vt. 1. partially boil to cut down on final cooking time, usually as a precursor to roasting; 2. to make uncomfortably hot; overheat

The peppers were parched by their stint on the grate of the charcoal grill./ Tomatoes are often parched by sun-drying which both wrinkles them up and intensifies their flavor./ After two hours in the boat Roxane was parched and reached for a bottle of iced tea. /[-ed -ing] >> parch  (PARCH) vi. 1 to expose to great heat; 2. to dry up from heat; make hot and dry; 3. to make or be very thirsty

The source of the article was parenthetical./ Hailee was a very talented artist and the parenthetical inclusion of her age five was just for the viewers’ information./ Often as in the last sentence and in this one parenthetical information is enclosed between commas. >> parenthetical  (PAR in THE ti kl) adj. 1. contained in parentheses; 2. interjected as explanatory or qualifying information; 3. using or containing parentheses

The pariahs in India comprise a caste known as “the untouchables.”/ The soldiers returning home from the Vietnam War were treated as pariahs by much of the American public. >> pariah  (puh RY uh) n. 1. an undesirable; one despised and rejected by others; an outcast; 2. a member of the lowest social caste in India

A British local government’s territory is often identical with the size of the original church parish./ On any given Sunday about half the members of the parish show up for church./ In Louisiana the state is carved into local parishes that are equivalent to counties in all the other states. >> parish  (PA rish) n. 1. an administrative district of many churches; 2. the mem- bers of the congregation of any church; 3. in Louisiana, the equivalent of a county in any other state

Gulliver’s Travels is a parody of the travel books that were so popular in Jonathan Swift’s day. / Parody is imitation and as such is a form of flattery. / Certain comedians make a living parodying political figures. / Mel Brooks parodies Mary Shelley’s book in the motion picture Young Frankenstein. /[parodied -ing parodies pl.] [Syn. caricature] >> parody  (PA ruh dee) n. 1. a humorous copy of a literary or musical work, often applied to an inappropriate subject; 2. a weak imitation —vt. 1. to write or perform a parody; 2. to imitate mockingly

In times past it was customary to parse sentences in English class using a diagram. / When a sentence is parsed it is separated into subject predicate and all modifying words (associating them with the words they modify). /[-d parsing] [Syn. analyze] >> parse  (PARS) vt. 1 to separate a sentence into its parts, identifying and explain- ing the use of each of those parts and their relationship to each other; 2. to describe the preceding

In the argument between Stan and Gilda Fred was a partisan of Gilda./ Armed partisans have been common over the years in much of Central America./ Partisan politics tends to get in the way of Congress ever doing very much./ No matter what Carolina does Rocio is partisan and follows her lead. /[Syn. follower] >> partisan  (PAHR ti zin) n. 1. a person who takes one side or the other in a con- test or dispute; 2. any of a group of guerrilla fighters —adj. 1. like or characteristic of a partisan; 2. blindly loyal

When sanding a block of wood the sander is the active participant while the wood is passive./ Boxing is not a sport for a passive person./ In pleading not guilty to the charge of robbery Bonnie insisted that she had been passive driving the car but having no idea that a robbery had even taken place until the police pulled her over. /[-ly adv.] >> passive  (PAS iv) adj. 1. acted upon without acting back; 2. yielding; submissive; patient; 3. taking no active part

The pastoral life is the lifestyle of a shepherd. / Traditional pastoral life is quite different from life in today’s rural America. / Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 is also known as the Pastoral Symphony and depicts country life. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. rural] >> pastoral  (PAS toer il) adj. 1. of shepherds, their work, or their way of life; 2. characteristic of rural life —n. a literary or musical work that deals with rural life, usually in an idealized way

Willis the pug acted paternally toward both kittens./ Lois had inherited her hairy legs from her paternal side./ Natalie was a paternal aunt being a sister of the child’s father. /[-ly adv.] >> paternal  (puh TER nil) adj. 1. like or typical of a father; fatherly; 2. inherited from or related on the father’s side

Classical musicians could not earn a living if it weren’t for the support of patrons. / Austrian Prince Esterházy was Haydn’s patron for much of the musician’s adult life. /[Syn. sponsor] >> patron  (PAY truhn) n. 1. a protector or benefactor; 2. one who uses his or her money to sponsor artists or events

Mark’s roving eye was a peccadillo that Noreen did not care to put up with so she dumped him. / Treating as a peccadillo a child’s taking a candy bar from a store without paying is as good as encouraging the child to go on to larger crimes. >> peccadillo  (PEK uh DIL oh) n. a minor or slight sin; a small fault or misdeed

Mrs. Higgins true to her pedantry insists that each of her students learn Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address” word for word. / Bert in his pedantry never missed an opportunity to use a five-syllable word when a two-syllable one would have done the job. >> pedantry  (PED in tree) n. 1. petty insistence on exact adherence to minor arbi- trary points of learning; 2. ostentatious demonstrations of knowledge

Special Walk/Don’t Walk signs are growing more popular for the benefit of pedestrian citizens. / The UN ambassador’s speech was very pedestrian and lulled half its listeners into a daze. / City drivers need to keep an eye out for pedestrians crossing the street. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. ordinary] >> pedestrian  (pi DES tree in) adj. 1. walking; done on foot; 2. of or for a walker; 3. lacking interest; ordinary; dull —n. a walker

Pellagra is endemic in certain parts of the world./ Those who consume a lot of protein-rich foods need not be concerned with contracting pellagra. >> pellagra  (pil AG ruh) n. a vitamin deficiency disease caused by a lack of ade- quate supply of Vitamin B6, characterized by skin eruptions, gastrointestinal prob- lems, and mental disorders

Mythical King Midas had a well-documented history of being penurious./ Strangely enough sharecroppers also have a history of being penurious but in the second sense of the word. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. stingy] >> penurious  (pen YOOR ee uhs) adj. 1. unwilling to part with money; miserly; stingy; 2. very poor; in poverty

The ant was able to perceive that when the spider invited her to dinner she was the main course./ By the odor of food and hickory in the air Raldo perceived that there was a barbecue nearby. /[-d perceiving*] [Syn. discern] >> perceive  (poer SEEV) vt. 1. to mentally grasp; observe; take note of; 2. to become aware of through one of the senses

The nose of the wine gave David the perception of ripe cherries and blackberries./ Despite knowing that they were meeting for the first time Helene could not shake the perception that she knew him from somewhere. >> perception  (poer SEP shin) n. 1. the act of perceiving or the ability to perceive by means of the senses; 2. insight or intuition or the possession of either of them; 3. the idea, concept, or impression formed as a result of perceiving something

It was extremely perceptive of Frederika to know who the real murderer was before completing even half of Agatha Christie’s tale./ Bruce was perceptive enough to tell from the interview that the position had already been filled and that the interviewer was just going through the motions. /[-ly adv.] >> perceptive  (poer SEP tiv) adj. 1. of or capable of perceiving; 2. having sharp insight or intuition; penetrating

Susan could not belive Jonathan’s perfidy in seeing Daphne behind her back./ General Washington could scarcely believe Benedict Arnold’s perfidy in giv- ing the British the plans to West Point. /[perfidious* adj. perfidiously adv.] >> perfidy  (POER fi dee) n. a deliberate breaking of trust; faithlessness; treachery

Jack Nicholson has won the Oscar for best performance by an actor on more than one occasion./ Running on clean oil improves the performance of your car’s engine./ The boxer’s manager was pleased with his performance in his last fight./ Lois and Barney attended last night’s performance of Cats. >> performance  (poer FAWR mins) n. 1. the act of doing something; accomplish- ment; execution; fullfillment; 2. effectiveness of operation; 3. some deed or feat done; 4. a presentation before an audience

The mechanic gave a perfunctory look at the car before telling its owner that it needed a new muffler./ When told that she’d need to update her medical insurance coverage Greta gave a perfunctory shrug. /[perfunctorily adv. perfunctoriness n.] >> perfunctory  (poer FUHNK tir ee) adj. 1. done without care; done routinely; superficial; 2. indifferent; lacking in concern

Peripatetic movie critics might move from theater to theater and check out the comfort of the seats as well as what’s on the screen. / A nomad lives a peripatetic existence. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. itinerant] >> peripatetic  (PER i puh TET ik) adj. moving about from place to place; itinerant

The airport was just at the periphery of the pilot’s field of vision./ One can usually tell if a basketball is properly inflated by squeezing its periphery and giving it a bounce./ The new mall is being built just at the periphery of the most heavily popu- lated area. /[peripheral adj. peripherally adv.] [Syn. circumference] >> periphery  (poer IF ir ee) n. 1. the edge; an outside boundary line; the perime- ter; 2. an outside surface, especially of a spherical object; 3. the immediate sur- rounding territory; outskirts

Many people perished in the floods of 2004. / As it passed over the horizon the sun perished from view. / Do not perish the thought of adding every one of these words to your vocabulary. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. disappear die] >> perish  (PER ish) vt. 1. to be destroyed or wiped out; 2. to die; disappear

The most perishable commodity in the cooler is the ice./ It is a good idea to refrigerate perishables such as dairy products and meat. >> perishable  (PER ish i bl) adj. likely to spoil or deteriorate —n. something, espe- cially food, that is liable to spoil

Perjury is a crime that is committed more frequently than those who commit it are prosecuted. / Witnesses who refused to say anything in court cannot be accused ofperjury. >> perjury  (POER joer ee) n. lying under oath; failing to tell the truth under formal oath (to a court of law)

There is a certain permanence about a marble statue that long outlasts the person or event it celebrates./ Some permanence is desirable in laundry marks that go on your clothing. >> permanence  (POER min ins) n. the quality or fact of lasting for a very long, if not indefinite, time without changing

Cell membranes are permeable so that dissolved nutrients can pass through them. / The most common permeable item in households today is the coffee filter. /[permeably adv.] >> permeable  (POER mee i bl) adj. capable of being passed through by fluids (liquids and gases)

It took three paper towels to clean up the spill as the first two became totally permeated with liquid./ Rinna’s daughter sent her to college in hope that some learning might permeate her thick yet porous skull. /[-d permeating] >> permeate  (POER mee ayt) vt. to pass into or through and affect every part; infest —vi. to penetrate and diffuse

It is the job of the criminal justice system to lock up the perpetrators of criminal activities./ Mr. Brown hammered a nail between two panels of the chalkboard thereby becoming the perpetrator of the infamous skyhook hoax on his physics class. /[(to) perpetrate vt. perpetrated perpetrating] >> perpetrator  (poer pi TRAY ter) n. 1. one who does something evil; doer of a crime; 2. one who commits a hoax or a blunder

The teacher strived to perpetuate the myth among her students that she had eyes in the back of her head./ Regular service intervals and tender care will perpetuate the useful life of your automobile. /[-d perpetuating] >> perpetuate  (poer PET yoo ayt) vt. to cause to continue; make perpetual; pre- serve from extinction

Finding the way to Red Riding Hood’s grandma’s house using the map perplexed the wolf./ Finding a general cure for cancer continues to perplex researchers. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. puzzle] >> perplex  (poer PLEKS) vt. 1. to puzzle; to confuse; to make one doubtful; 2. to make complicated or difficult to understand

The Marines persevered in their attempt to climb Mt. Suribachi until they finally prevailed./ To attain one’s life’s goals it is essential to persevere regardless of the obsta- cles one might encounter. /[-d persevering*] >> persevere  (poer si VEER) vi. to continue to make an effort despite opposition; to persist

The usher was persistent in asking the noisy couple to leave the theater./ Yosemite Park’s El Capitan has been persistent in resisting the ravages of wind and rain./ Rote learning is the result of persistent repetition of the same information rather than understanding. /[-ly adv.] >> persistent  (poer SIST int) n. 1. refusing to give up; unrelenting; stubborn; 2. lasting without change; 3. constantly repeated

Hazel was very persnickety about how her bedding was folded in the linen closet./ The persnickety Nurse Cratchett obsessed about the dressings on her home care patients. >> persnickety  (poer SNIK i tee) adj. 1. too fussy; too particular or precise; fastidious; 2. showing or needing very careful treatment

The artist’s perspective makes things disappear in the distance giving the viewer the feeling of three dimensions./ Perspective makes nearer objects appear larger than distant ones./ To avoid blowing things out of proportion we must view them in the perspective of how they relate to the whole. >> perspective  (poer SPEK tiv) n. 1. the artistic picturing of things so as to repre- sent a three-dimensional portrait using two-dimensional drawings by use of lines that converge at a vanishing point; 2. the effect of relative distances on how objects appear; 3. the relationships and proportions of parts to each other and to the whole; 4. a point of view in judging things or events

It is a talent to speak with perspicuity./ Perspicuity makes it easy to convey your ideas to others. /[perspicuous adj. perspicuously adv.] >> perspicuity  (POER spi KYOO i tee) n. clear and easily understood; lucidity; clar- ity in statement and expression

Your argument against a national pickle-spotting hotline was not very persuasive to the gherkin lobbyist./ Over the course of time the pen has proven to be much more persuasive than the sword. >> persuasive  (per SWAY siv) adj. having the power to sway one’s opinion or tend- ing to sway one’s opinion, beliefs, etc.

When seeking a new veterinarian one’s dog’s opinion might be quite pertinent./ A list of references and what they have to say could be pertinent to the hir- ing of a housekeeper. >> pertinent  (PER ti nint) adj. to the point; connected to the matter under consid- eration; relevant

Francesco is perturbed when he thinks someone is hurting an animal. / Many people are perturbed by the sight of blood. / Shouting fire in a crowded theater might perturb the audience enough to cause a riot and so is illegal. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. disturb] >> perturb  (poer TOERB) vt. 1. to annoy, alarm, or upset; 2. to cause confusion or disorder; unsettle (Imperturbable means not capable of being disturbed.)

A feeling of relief pervaded the community after hearing the news that the little girl had been rescued from the shaft. / A case of blight pervaded the Irish potato crop at one time and caused wide- spread famine. /[-d pervading] >> pervade  (poer VAYD) vt. to be prevalent or widespread

Malicious gossip can often be pervasive around the workplace spreading in a matter of minutes./ The pervasive nature of some diseases is the reason for isolating any sus- pected cases. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> pervasive  (poer VAY siv) adj. tending to spread throughout something or some group

Pessimism leads the driver to believe that the bridge is out just around the bend./ The expectation that bad instincts will win out over good ones is a sign of pessimism./ Pessimism makes one see the half-full glass as half empty. /[pessimistic adj.] >> pessimism  (PES i mi zm) n. 1. expecting the worst at all times; 2. the philoso- phy that evil always triumphs over good

The medical community has had phenomenal success with curing certain cancers./ Phenomenal advances took aviation from the Wright Brothers’ flyer to the space shuttle in less than 100 years. >> phenomenal  (fe NAHM in il) adj. very unusual; extraordinary; very remarkable

The phenomenon of a total eclipse of the sun is readily explainable with a little knowledge of astronomy./ It is not so easy to dismiss all the reports of the phenomenon of alien abduc- tion by people in many different parts of the world. /[phenomena pl.] >> phenomenon  (fe NAHM in ahn) n. 1. any event, occurrence, or happening that can be determined by the senses and scientifically explained; 2. any of the forego- ing, explainable or otherwise

Many of the great robber barrons of the late nineteenth and early twenti- eth centuries are known today for the philanthropic works of the founda- tions named for them./ Two such philanthropic organizations are the Carnegie and the Rockefeller foundations. >> philanthropic  (fil in THRAH pik) adj. charitable; giving; benign; humanitari- an; having a desire to help mankind

The diva’s response to a request that she perform a certain number was a philistine “I sang that yesterday.” / Students in a college town often refer to the townspeople as philistines. / Delilah was the Philistine woman who was responsible for Samson’s haircut. >> philistine  (FIL is teen) adj. 1. uncultured and smugly conventional —n 1. small-town people; locals 2. (P) the name of the ancient people who often fought with the Israelites of biblical times, and among whose number was Goliath

Many different aspects of philosophy concerned the deep thinkers of the seventeenth eighteenth and nineteenth centuries./ The philosophy of medical ethicists is ever more taxed in the twenty-first century./ Because logic is a branch of philosophy it should be no surprise that French philosopher René Descartes gave us the Cartesian coordinates system of naming points by coordinates. /[philosophic adj. philosophically adv.] >> philosophy  (fil AHS uh fee) n. 1. theoretical or logical analysis of the principles underlying thought, knowledge, conduct, and the nature of the universe—made up of ethics, logic, esthetics, epistimology, metaphysics, etc.; 2. the general or specific principles governing human character and morals

The United States was very phlegmatic in its response to both European wars of the last century./ The United States was far from phlegmatic in getting involved with Iraq in 2003. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. impassive] >> phlegmatic  (flig MA tik) adj. difficult to rouse to action because of sluggish- ness, dullness, apathy, coolness, calmness, or stolidity

Photosynthesis is the process by which a green plant manufactures its own food. / Chloroplasts contain the green substance chlorophyll which must be present for photosynthesis to occur. >> photosynthesis  (foh toh SIN thi sis) n. the chemical process by which a green plant combines water and carbon dioxide in the presence of sunlight to form sugars

A physicist deals with lenses and the laws of refraction and reflection./ Newton’s laws of motion are the province of the physicist./ A physicist does not exactly deal with rocket science—er wait a second/ that’s exactly what a physicist might deal with. >> physicist  (FIZ is ist) n. a scientist dealing with the interaction of matter and energy (physics) whose parts are mechanics, optics, heat, light, and most recently quantum physics

It is not earthshaking to conclude that the physiologies of men and women are as different as they are alike./ The physiology of most organs must work together for an organism to be truly healthy. /[physiologies pl. physiological adj. physiologically adv.] >> physiology  (fiz ee AHL i jee) n. 1. the branch of medical science dealing with the functions and processes of various bodily organs in relation to the whole organ- ism and each other; 2. the functions and processes of an organism and its vital organs

Today more often than not pigments are mixed at the paint counter and added to a base to give thousands of possible shades of paint for your walls./ Even though it has another function chlorophyll is the green pigment found in many plants./ A chameleon’s skin will pigment according to its environs. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. tint] >> pigment  (PIG mint) n. 1. the coloring matter, usually in the form of a powder or concentrate, that is mixed with a water or oil base to form paint; 2. a coloring matter in the cells of plants and animals —vi. to take on color

The pinion makes possible the rack-and-pinion steering so prevalent in today’s sportier cars./ The pinions of a bird’s wings are often clipped by zoos to prevent the ani- mals from flying the coop as it were./ A capturing soldier often pinions his captive’s arms to prevent resistance./ A peacock’s wings are usually pinioned by a zoo’s curators for reasons already mentioned. /[-ed -ing] >> pinion  (PIN yin) n. 1. a small gear whose teeth fit into a larger rack to accom- plish motion; 2. the last bony section of a bird’s wing —vt. 1. to disable by binding one’s arms; 2. to handcuff or shackle; 3. to cut off the pinions of a bird’s wing to prevent its flying

Hailee needed to be placated after Sebastian ran off with her toy. / Neville Chamberlain’s big mistake was trying to placate Hitler by allowing him to march into Austria. /[-d placating] [Syn. pacify] >> placate  (PLAY kayt) vt. to stop from being angry; to appease; pacify

Sometimes a placebo is given to a patient who would not benefit from a medicine just to make him think he’s on medication./ Such a pill often makes a psychological difference to the patient known as the placebo effect./ In tests of medicines the control group is always given a placebo to see whether the medicine being tested has any significant effect. >> placebo  (pli SEE boh) n. 1. a harmless unpotent medication given to a patient to humor him or her, or used as a control in a blind test of medications; 2. some- thing said or done to humor or win the favor of another

The sea was placid following the passage of the violent storm. / A good businessman always keeps aplacid demeanor while around customers. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. calm] >> placid  (PLAS id) adj. peaceful; undisturbed; tranquil; calm

Copyright laws exist to protect authors from having their intellectual prop- erty plagiarized./ Most plagiarizing is done by students writing papers who claim some author’s or some encyclopedia’s words as their own. /[-d plagiarizing] >> plagiarize  (PLAY jir YZ) vt. to take ideas, writings, etc. from someone else and pass them off as one’s own

Laurie felt very plaintive after the loss of her pet parakeet. / Robbie was plaintive after he struck out making the final out of the game. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. sad] >> plaintive  (PLAYN tiv) adj. sorrowful; mournful; expressing sorrow or melan- choly; sad

A plethora of suds filled the tub to overflowing. / A plethora of customers tried to get World Series tickets and most of them had to be turned away. >> plethora  (PLE thir uh) n. an overabundance or excess; the state of being too full

Aluminum foil is quite pliable and the heavy-duty kind is suitable for wrapping food for the freezer./ Some people are pliable enough to be easily convinced to buy “wonder products” they see in TV infomercials./ Some breeds of dog are pliable enough to be comfortable living in the Arctic or in mid-latitude climates. /[pliably adv.] [Syn. plastic] >> pliable  (PLY i bl) adj. 1. easily bent or molded; 2. easily persuaded or influ- enced; 3. adaptable

Lieutenant Rigers had the pluck to lead his platoon into battle at the head of the column. / Eugine showed his pluck by continuing to hunt for survivors in 20-foot surf. / Butchers used topluck chickens by hand but today a machine does it better. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. fortitude] >> pluck  (PLUHK) n. courage to meet difficulties or danger; fortitude —vt. to pull out or pick (feathers, hairs, and so on)

When the skydiver jumped from the plane he plummeted some 2000 feet before his parachute opened. / An airplane’s wings provide lift that keeps it from plummeting to the ground. / A high diver plummets from the board until the water breaks his or her fall. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. plunge] >> plummet  (PLUH mit) vi. to plunge; to fall straight downward

Water exhibits a pluralism by existing as a liquid a solid and a gas some- times all at the same time./ There were times when a president of the United States demonstrated pluralism by being his own secretary of state./ The composition of the population of the United States is about as great an example of ethnic pluralism as can be found on earth. /[pluralistic adj. pluralistically adv.] >> pluralism  (PLU ril i zm) n. 1. existing in more than one form; 2. the holding of more than one office by a single person; 3. a society made up of many diverse eth- nic groups or groups from different cultural backgrounds

Many plutocratic families had acquired their wealth by the 1920s. / Among America’s plutocratic family names are Carnegie Ford Kennedy and Rockefeller. /[-ally adv. plutocracy plutocrat n.] >> plutocratic  (PLOO toh KRAT ik) adj. of the wealthy, especially those whose wealth carries with it great power and influence (Plutocracy is government by the wealthy.)

A cobra’s venom is one of the most powerful poisons in the animal world./ Propaganda is a poison that the Nazis and the Soviets were adroit at using in the middle of the last century./ Various pesticides are used to poison undesirable rodents./ Stereotyping certain ethnic groups can poison the attitudes of the impres- sionable toward them. /[-ed -ing] >> poison  (POY zin) n. 1. a substance that causes illness or death when eaten, drunk, or otherwise absorbed by the body; 2. anything destructive physically, emotionally, etc. —vt. 1. to give poison to; harm or destroy by means of poison; 2. to corrupt

The earth is not the only planet to have polar ice caps./ Magnets are polar with unlike ones attracting and like ones repelling each other./ When installing batteries in a radio you must pay attention to their polar alignment./ Optimists’ and pessimists’ philosophies are at polar extremes of the spectrum. >> polar  (POH lir) adj. 1. of, relating to, or near the South or North Pole; 2. of a pole; 3. having polarity; 4. opposite in nature or function

The polarity of a magnet can be determined by the way its poles line up when allowed to swing freely. / Magnetic polarity can also be determined by approaching one end with a magnet of known polarity. / Republicans in the House often show their polarity by voting as a block against bills the Democrats support and vice versa. / In a closed DC circuit electrons flow from the cathode (the end with nega- tive polarity) toward the anode. /[polarities pl.] [Syn. alignment] >> polarity  (puh LAR i tee) adj. 1. having the tendency to align along the lines of the earth’s magnetic field; 2. having a magnetic attraction; 3. the condition of being divided into two opposing groups; 4. the tendency to have a strong positive or negative attitude toward some reference point (like the positive and negative electrodes of a battery)

Polemic persons often enjoy becoming members of a debating team. / Some of the great polemics of the western plains concerned property borders. / The border polemics usually concerned water rights but occasionally dealt with mineral rights. /[-ally adv.] >> polemic  (poh LEM ik) adj. 1. of or concerning dispute; controversial; 2. argu- mentative; disputatious

Political leaders are elected in some countries appointed in others and seize power by force in still others./ The secretaries of the cabinet are political appointees of the president but must be approved by the Senate./ Many votes in the legislatures are governed by political considerations. /[-ly adv.] >> political  (puh LI ti kl) adj. 1. of or about, politics, government, country, state; 2. relating to a definite governmental organization; 3. taking sides in political parties

Politicians as a group do not enjoy a particularly good reputation as they’re reputed to scheme in the back room./ Lyndon Johnson was a particularly skilled politician who knew how to play the game to his best advantage. >> politician  (pah li TISH in) n. 1. a person actively engaged in politics, often used derisively to mean scheming, after personal gain, etc.; 2. one particularly skilled in politics

Industrial pollution has been considerably abated in California as a result of very strong environmental legislation./ Air and water pollution are probably the two forms of contamination most in the public eye. /[Syn. contamination] >> pollution  (puh LOO shin) n. 1. the result of defiling; making impure, corrupt, or dirty; 2. contamination with waste materials

Harry and David found that the armoire was a ponderous piece of furniture to move./ Traditionally and for obvious reasons the refrigerator is the most ponder- ous appliance to move./ When not faced with a threat the gait of the African elephant seems rather ponderous as befits its size. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. heavy] >> ponderous  (PAHN dir is) adj. 1. very heavy; 2. difficult to handle because of weight; 3. bulky; massive; seemingly heavy; 4. dull and labored

A myopic person sees far things very poorly./ When it comes to exams Tom tests rather poorly./ Many people thought poorly of Ford’s Edsel so the model didn’t last on the market for very long. >> poorly  (POR lee) adv. 1. not well; not functioning properly; badly or ineffective- ly; 2. with a low opinion; disparagingly

A poseur might deliberately affect the manner of another or might do so naturally. / Impersonators and impressionists are deliberate poseurs. / Sometimes a poseur affects an attitude of concern just for the benefit of a judge or jury. >> poseur  (poh ZOER) n. a person who affects attitudes or manners for the benefit of others; an actor; pretender

All Rosanne’s possessions were destroyed in the fire./ The Hawaiian Islands and Puerto Rico were among the possessions acquired by the United States as a result of the Spanish-American War./ The territory of Transjordan was apossession of the British Crown until 1948. /[possession sing.] >> possessions  (puh ZESH inz) n. pl. 1. things owned; personal property; 2. property or wealth; 3. any territories ruled by another country

A postscript in a letter is usually indicated by the initials P.S. on the line fol- lowing the signature./ An epilogue can also be thought of as a postscript to a book or play. >> postscript  (POHST skript) n. 1. a note added after the signature of a letter; 2. an afterthought or supplementary information

The sultan of Brunei is an Eastern potentate of considerable wealth./ The tsars of Russia were potentates until the end/ recent British monarchs are not so. >> potentate  (POH tin tayt) n. a person who has a great amount of power; ruler; monarch; emperor

Some of our best knowledge of ancient civilizations comes from having unearthed their pottery. / Most dishes are made of pottery. / Terra-cotta pottery is commonly used for household plants although plastic is also frequently used. /[Syn. earthenware] >> pottery  (PAH toer ee) n. objects made from clay by a potter; urns, bowls, dishes, and so on made of clay and hardened by heat in a kiln; earthenware

The poultry department in most supermarkets is located adjacent to or in the meat department. >> poultry  (POHL tree) n. domestic fowl raised for eggs and/or meat; chicken, turkeys, ducks, and geese, collectively

Powwows once conjured up visions of Native Americans and pilgrims smok- ing a peace pipe in a circle around the fire./ Any corporate meeting can be refered to as a powwow especially if it is an informal one. >> powwow  (POW WOW) n. 1. any conference or gathering; 2. among Native North Americans, a ceremony to help cure disease, plan war, etc. characterized by feasting and dancing; a medicine man; a conference —vi. to hold a conference; confer

A practical knowledge of how a car engine works is a good thing to have before attempting to repair one./ When making home repairs the rule is to be practical about what you can afford to do./ It is not practical to equip an economy car with a V-8 engine. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] >> practical  (PRAK ti KL) adj. 1. gotten by or from practice; 2. usable, workable; sensible; 3. dealing with reality rather than theory; practicable

A pragmatic approach to learning these words means you should study one or two groups of words in one sitting./ It is not pragmatic to try to read through this book in a single sitting/ after all it doesn’t have much of a plot./ An old codger might be quite pragmatic in his beliefs about how to make a pot of coffee. /[pragmatist* n. -ally adv.] >> pragmatic  (prag MAT ik) adj. 1. concerned with everyday practices rather than theory or idealism; practical; 2. opinionated; dogmatic

It is a policy of good management to praise employees for good work./ Praising will almost always get better results than criticizing./ Some congregations exult in praising the Lord. /[-d praising -e n. sing.] [Syn. laud acclaim] >> praise  (PRAYZ) vt. 1 to express approval; commend; 2. to glorify; extol

The preamble to the U.S. Constitution sets down its reason for being./ Wilson’s 14 points were his preamble to laying out his vision of what the peace treaty ending World War I should look like. /[Syn. introduction] >> preamble  (PREE AM bl or pre AM bl) n. an introduction, especially to a consti- tution, law, etc. stating what its purpose is

Sitting on a flagpole is a precarious position to be in./ One who relies on the goodwill of others has at best a precarious chance of success./ Relying on a lottery to raise the money for your college tuition makes the likelihood of your getting a diploma precarious at best. /[-ly* adv.] >> precarious  (pri KAYR ee is) adj. 1. uncertain; insecure; dependent on circum- stances; 2. depending on the will or favor of others; 3. depending on chance; risky; uncertain

In the succession to the presidency following the Speaker of the House and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate the precedence is to go through the cabinet secretaries in the order in which their posts were created./ When seating dignitaries at an event a prince always takes precedence over an earl./ In poker a royal flush takes precedence over every other hand. /[precedency n.] >> precedence  (PRE si DENS) n. 1. priority because of superiority in rank, age, sen- iority, etc.; 2. a ranking of dignitaries in order of importance

The right of the Supreme Court to pass on a law’s constitutionality was established by precedent./ Many court decisions are based on precedent./ It is chivalrous to give women and children precedent over men when aban- doning ship. >> precedent  (PRE si DINT) n. 1. an earlier decision, judgment, act of law, case, etc. that serves as an example for a later one; 2. something done based on earlier events —adj. that precedes; preceding

Justice for all is a precept of American democracy./ Not watching while a sausage is being made is a precept of enjoying eating that sausage. /[Syn. doctrine] >> precept  (PREE sept) n. 1. a rule of moral conduct; maxim; 2. a commandment or directive meant as a rule of conduct

The invasion of Poland precipitated England’s entry into World War II./ It took a weight gain of 10 pounds to precipitate Melissa’s going on a diet./ Sodium chloride can be precipitated out of solution by adding the right chemical but don’t ask me which./ Silver chloride coming out of solution appears as grayish flakes of precipitate. /[-d precipitating precipitation n.] >> precipitate  (pri SIP it AYT) vt. 1. to cause to happen before expected or desired; to hasten; 2. (chemistry) to make something insoluble so that it separates from a solution —n. (chemistry) a solid separated from a solution

The precipitation of a conflict is rarely a cause to celebrate. / Driving too fast might be the precipitation for a high-speed accident. / In the winter frozen precipitation might fall from the sky. /[precipitate vt.] >> precipitation  (pree SIP i TAY shun) n. 1. rash haste; impetuousness; 2. the bringing about of something suddenly; acceleration; 3. snow, rain, sleet, hail, and so on

Be precise in what you say and your words won’t be misinterpreted./ The opposite of precise speaking is mumbling./ An atomic clock is more precise than anybody has a practical use for./ A surgeon must be precise in her attention to keeping a sterile field. /[-ly adv. precision n.] [Syn. explicit correct] >> precise  (pri CYS) adj. 1. accurately said; exactly defined; 2. speaking distinctly; 3. without variation; 4. scrupulous; fastidious

Having been scratched from the field of 12 horses in the race precludes any possibility of How About That’s finishing in the money./ The drawbridge’s being stuck open precluded any chance of Iggy’s getting to work early yesterday. /[-d precluding] [Syn. prevent] >> preclude  (pree KLOOD) vt. to make impossible; to cut out of the realm of pos- sibilities; to prevent

Geoffrey was so precocious that he was walking at 8 months of age./ Mathew was precocious enough to be taking college-level math courses while still in junior high school./ Mozart’s precocious musical skill is well documented. /[-ly adv.] >> precocious  (pri KOH shis) adj. 1. matured to a level beyond that which is nor- mal for one of that age (a precocious child); 2. of or demonstrating premature development

Predators often take advantage of older or disadvantaged people./ Lions like most predators are at the top of their food chain./ Predators of the bird family are known as raptors. >> predators  (PRED uh TAWRZ) n. 1. ones who live by exploiting and robbing others; 2. ones who capture and feed on other animals; 3. birds or creatures of prey

Lyndon Johnson’s predecessor as president was John F. Kennedy./ Cro-Magnon man is believed to have been a predecessor of Homo sapiens./ The ice box which contained a block of ice was the predecessor of the refrigerator. >> predecessor  (PRE di CES oer) n. 1. a person who held the same office before the one currently occupying it; 2. an ancestor; 3. something that was used before it was replaced by a newer thing

If fortune tellers can predict the future why aren’t they all rich?/ It is easy to predict that the next word you look at after predict will be prehensile. /[-able* adj. -ably adv.] >> predict  (pri DIKT) vt. foretell; to know and state what a future event will be

A municipal government can preempt someone’s property for public use. / A news bulletin or presidential address sometimes preempts scheduled programming. /[-ed -ing] >> preempt  (pree EMPT) vt. 1. to seize before anyone else can; 2. to replace a previously scheduled program (on TV or radio)

If you’ve ever gone to the monkey house then you’ve seen monkeys swinging by their prehensile tails./ Unlike most humans monkeys and lemurs have prehensile feet and can use them to pick things up. >> prehensile  (pree HEN sil) adj. adapted for grabbing, such as the tails of many monkeys; grasping

Most children have a prejudice for carrots and cucumbers. / It is wrong to prejudice a jury before they fairly try a case. / One might be prejudiced for or against something. / Racial prejudice has been responsible for many hate crimes in the world and in American history. /[-d prejudicing] [Syn. partiality] >> prejudice  (PREJ uh dis) vt. 1. to have or show bias; 2. to cause harm by prejudg- ing —n. 1. an opinion or judgment formed before knowing the facts; preconceived idea either favorable or unfavorable; 2. an irrational dislike or hatred, suspicion, or intolerance of a certain race, creed, ethnic group, and so on

First-degree muder is also known as premeditated homicide. / The furnishing of a house should be premeditated or it could turn out to be a disaster. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. preplanned] >> premeditated  (pree MED i TAYT id) adj. thought out, schemed, or planned beforehand

The premise of your asking whether I enjoyed the movie Gladiator is in error because I never saw the film./ When Dawn asked Cathy how she’d enjoyed college chemistry her premise was that Cathy had taken the course and she was correct. /[Syn. presumption] >> premise  (PREM is) n. a prior statement or condition that serves as the basis for an argument or procedure; the underlying assumption

Sandy was so preoccupied with the book she was reading that she didn’t hear her mother call her to dinner./ It was the job of the point man to preoccupy the sentry so that he didn’t see the rest of the attacking force. /[preoccupied -ing preoccupation* n.] >> preoccupy  (pree AHK yoo py) vt. to occupy one’s thoughts to the total exclu- sion of everything else; to engross or absorb

Linda loved to prepossess a new teacher by showing off her good manners at every opportunity./ Prepossessing one’s new employer is not a bad way to start a new business relationship. /[-ed -ing prepossessing adj.] >> prepossess  (pree PUH zes) vt. 1. to prejudice or bias, especially favorably; 2. to favorably impress immediately

Many believe that a comet is a presage of disaster. / Most people have an occasional presage of something to come. / Some people consult psychics to presage their futures. / Nostradamus is credited by some as having presaged many events includ- ing the huge success of this book. /[-d presaging] [Syn. omen] >> presage  (PRES ij for n. or v., pree SAYJ or pri SAYJ for v.) n. 1. a sign or a warning of an event in the future; augury; omen; 2. a foreboding —vt. 1. to give warning of; portend; 2. to have a foreboding or presentiment; 3. to predict

Prescience is not unlike having a presage except that it is a complete fore- knowledge rather than just a sign. / Admiral Yamamoto is credited with prescience of Japan’s defeat if it attacked America. / Alexander the Great was supposed to have had prescience that he would live a glorious but short life. /[prescient adj. presciently adv.] [Syn. foreknowledge] >> prescience  (PREESH uhns) n. to have an apparent knowledge of events before they occur; foreknowledge

The traffic officer prescribed a left turn for all traffic at the intersection./ The doctor prescribed a regimen of bed rest and a liquid diet./ The Constitution prescribes cruel and unusual punishment. /[-d prescribing] >> prescribe  (pri SKRYB) vt. 1. to order or direct; ordain; 2. to order as a medicine or method of treatment (by a medical doctor); 3. (law) to outlaw or invalidate

Acid-free sleeves help with the preservation of photographs./ Food preservation began with vacuum packaging in the nineteenth century./ The preservation of wildlife is just one assignment of the U.S. Forest Service. >> preservation  (PREZ ir VAY shin) n. 1. protected from harm; 2. kept from spoil- ing or rotting; 3. maintaining by regulating

Pressure is usually used to squeeze the extra water from a sponge mop. / Automobile salesmen are infamous for pressuring customers to buy right away. / In physics one foot-pound is the amount of pressure it takes to raise one pound one foot. >> pressure  (PRESH er) n. 1. a pressing, squeezing, compressing, or being pressed; 2. compelling influence; demanding force; 3. (physics) force per unit of surface area

How presumptuous was the guest at the cocktail party to take a plastic bag from her purse and start filling it with jumbo cocktail shrimp?/ It was rather presumptuous of the wedding guest to take a seat at the head table. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> presumptuous  (pri ZUMP shoo uhs) adj. overconfident or arrogant; taking too much for granted

It was quite by accident that a former vice president made a pretense to having invented the Internet./ A major pretense of a certain U.S. president is that he can pronounce the word “nuclear.”/ Children often learn proper behavior through pretense to be adult role models. >> pretense  (PREE tens) n. 1. an unsupported claim of having accomplished some- thing; 2. a false claim; 3. a pretending, as in make-believe

George of the Jungle was a rather pretentious character considering that Ape was the brains of the outfit./ The triple loop performed by the roller boarder was a very pretentious dis- play of his/her skills. >> pretentious  (pree TEN shis) adj. 1. claiming some importance or distinction; 2. ostentatious; showing off; self-important

Prevaricating while under oath is a classy definition of perjury. / Sometimes people prevaricate to be polite because nobody asks “How do I look?” expecting to be told “Terrible!” /[-d prevaricating prevarication n.] [Syn. lie] >> prevaricate  (pri VAR i kayt) vi. to equivocate; to evade the truth; lie

The previous administration enjoyed more popularity than the current one./ Mary was convinced that she had been a sheep in a previous incarnation. >> previous  (PREE vee uhs) adj. before the present; prior; at an earlier time; preceding

A five-star general has primacy of rank in the U.S. Army. / The winner of a race is the contestant with primacy reaching the finish line. / The number one has primacy among counting numbers. >> primacy  (PRY mi see) n. 1. the state of being first in order, time, rank, and so on; 2. the office or authority of a church primate

Primarily vacations seemed more important than school to Ian but that came to change./ Alice went to space camp primarily to learn more about the solar system. >> primarily  (pry MER i lee) adv. at first; originally; principally; mainly

The primary polio vaccine was the Salk vaccine with Sabin’s coming along later./ Primary school is where a child develops fundamental reading and math skills./ In the primary elections the final candidates are selected./ The president is the primary executive officer in the United States. >> primary  (PRY mer ee) adj. 1. first in order or first to have been developed; 2. primitive; fundamental; basic; 3. in the first level of a series or sequence; 4. chief; principal; main

Orangutans and gorillas are very different primates from your sister Sally./ A primate of the church is so called because he is prime among officials of his region. >> primate  (PRY mayt) n. 1. any of an order of mammals that has soft hands and feet, each terminating in five digits (monkeys, lemurs, apes, humans); 2. the highest-ranking bishop in a province

It is a principle of Newton’s physical discoveries that what goes up must come down./ The principle of jet propulsion might not be obvious from watching a jet plane but watch a squid propel itself through the water and you’ll get it./ The principles of good manners are not hard to live by and make for a much more civilized existence. >> principle  (PRIN si pil) n. 1. a fundamental truth or natural law; 2. the ultimate or underlying cause of something; 3. a rule of conduct or scientific law

The pristine conditions of the Alaskan forests exist only because humans have interfered with them minimally./ Pristine mountain streams barely exist in the lower 48 states primarily due to urban and industrial sprawl. /[-ly adv.] >> pristine  (pris TEEN) adj. 1. characteristic of an earlier time or condition; original; 2. as if unopened; unspoiled; still pure

When it comes to doing homework the better students are generally not the ones who procrastinate./ The motto of the true procrastinator (one who procrastinates) is “Never do today what you can put off ’til tomorrow.” /[-d procrastinating] >> procrastinate  (proh CRAS tin AYT) vi. to put off doing something to a future time and to do this habitually; to often postpone

It was the sergeant’s job to procure supplies./ We must procure the right tools for doing the job. /[-d procuring -ment* n.] [Syn. get] >> procure  (proh KYUR mint) vt. to get or bring about by some effort; obtain; secure

Some people find great profundity in the works of Salvadore Dali/ others just find them funny or clever./ The works of Gilbert and Sullivan are generally lacking in profundity yet they are very entertaining./ Do not underestimate the profundity of needing to solve the problem of global warming. >> profundity  (pruh FUHN di tee) n. 1. of great depth, especially intellectually; 2. a profound matter, idea, etc.

Strawberries which are scarce throughout the winter are available in profusion come spring./ Every Congress passes a profusion of bills that waste taxpayers’ money on local projects./ Wild blackberries and black raspberries may be found growing in great profusion by roadsides throughout the Northeast every summer. >> profusion  (PRUH FYOO zhin) n. 1. a pouring forth with great abundance; 2. great liberalness and wastefulness; 3. a rich or lavish amount

A pair of rabbits tends to proliferate at a very rapid pace. / During a fad a particular item (such as the Hula Hoop(R)) proliferates in short order and then just as suddenly stops. / The U.S. fighter plane proliferated during the Second World War as a result of the strength of American industry. /[-d -proliferating] >> proliferate  (proh LIF er ayt) vt. 1. to reproduce new parts in quick succession; 2. to create or produce in large numbers

Some breeds of cat are very prolific having litters of six to eight kittens at a time./ Franz Joseph Haydn was prolific enough to produce over 150 symphonies during his lifetime 104 of which still exist in today’s repertoire although only the last 16 are performed frequently./ Shakespeare has to have been one of the most prolific playwrights of the seventeenth century. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. fertile] >> prolific  (pruh LIF ik) adj. 1. producing an abundance of fruit or offspring; 2. producing many works of the mind (writings, musical compositions, art, etc.)

Cuba’s Fidel Castro has always been known for his prolixity with an aver- age speech running about four hours. / Brevity is a characteristic of wit/ prolixity is not. /[prolix adj. prolixly adv.] >> prolixity  (proh LIKS i tee) n. tending to use more words than are necessary; long-windedness; verbosity

Jet engines propel most of today’s commercial aircraft. / Propellers propel most boats through the water. (Coincidence? We think not!) / Thomas Edison was propelled to fame by his inventions including the elec- tric lightbulb. /[-led -ling] [Syn. push] >> propel  (pruh PEL) vt. to push; drive; impel onward

Lincoln planned the Reconstruction to propitiate the people of the former Confederacy. / The clothing store manager gave Gail a partial refund to propitiate her and win her furture business. /[-d propitiating propitiatory n.] [Syn. pacify] >> propitiate  (pruh PISH ee ayt) vt. to cause to be favorably inclined; to win over; to appease; pacify; regain the goodwill of

Sam Spade the protagonist created by Dashiell Hammett first appeared in 1929 and made it big in The Maltese Falcon./ Spade appeared in a few films with Humphrey Bogart as the protagonist and when the Hammett stories were exhausted Bogart continued as Raymond Chandler’s Philip Marlowe. >> protagonist  (pruh TAG uhn ist) n. 1. the main character in a story, play, drama, etc. around whom the action takes place; 2. the actor who plays that role

The Civil War which everyone expected to be brief lasted for a protracted period of time. / Most new car purchases spread payments over a protracted number of months. / When asked why he had not brought home the groceries Jack gave his wife Jill a protracted response. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. extended] >> protracted  (proh TRAK tid) adj. lengthy; drawn out; extended

Samuel Adams’s impassioned writings against the arbitrary actions of the British monarchy were provocative enough to be credited with moving the colonists toward revolution./ The actress wore a very provocative gown to the award ceremony. /[-ly adv.] >> provocative  (pruh VAHK uh tiv) adj. 1. provoking or tending to provoke to action, thought, feeling, etc.; stimulating; 2. erotic

The proximity of the Easter and Passover holidays is not a coincidence because the Last Supper was a Passover Seder./ When driving it is a good idea to stay out of proximity to the car in front of you. >> proximity  (prahk SIM i tee) adj. the state or property of being near in space or time

Mark Twain was the well-known pseudonym of Samuel Langhorne Clemens./ The creator of Perry Mason Erle Stanley Gardner wrote other books under the pseudonym A. A. Fair./ The French call a pseudonym a nom de plume or pen name. >> pseudonym  (SOO din im) n. a false name, especially one assumed by an author so as not to be identified by his readers; pen name

Before buying golf clubs it makes sense to consult a golf club pundit. / Readers of consumer magazines believe themselves to be pundits on refrigerators. / Political commentators profess to be pundits on politics. /[Syn. maven] >> pundit  (PUN dit) n. a person who professes to have a great deal of learning on a subject; a supposed or self-supposed authority on something

Certain peppers such as the poblano are noted for their pungency. / The pungency of an onion is enough to bring tears to the eyes of the person slicing it—and not for sentimental reasons. /[pungent adj. pungently adv.] [Syn. acridness] >> pungency  (PUN jin see) n. a strong, sharp taste and/or smell; acridness

Quaffing beer while eating pizza is a well-established sport in some households. / Harry quaffed his brew from a frozen mug. / Sally stopped into the tavern for a pint of quaff. /[-ed -ing] >> quaff  (KWAHF) vt. to drink deeply with gusto —n. 1. the act of quaffing; 2. the drink that is quaffed

Sylvia was in a quandary over which dress to wear to her friend Rhiannon’s party./ The quandary of whether to accept his friend Randy’s invitation to go to the hockey game or to go to the basketball game with his dad as previous- ly planned reduced Howard to tears. /[Syn. predicament] >> quandary  (KWAHN dree) n. a state of uncertainty; a puzzling position or a per- plexing situation; a predicament

It was General Santa Ana’s job to quell the rebellion of the Texans./ Bill tried to quell Andrea’s fears about her upcoming tonsilectomy./ It should quell your concerns about spelling q words to know that there’s always a u following the q—as long as it’s an English word. >> quell  (KWELL) vt. 1 to crush; to put an end to; to subdue; 2. to allay or assuage; to quiet

Nancy was so querulous that no hairstylist wanted to wait on her./ The gardener finished trimming the roses and was waiting for the querulous Mr. Jones to inspect his work knowing that the latter would find some- thing wrong. /[-ly adv.] >> querulous  (KWER yoo lis) adj. complaining; peevish; inclined to find fault

Sir Galahad’s quest to find the Holy Grail is legendary./ Frank traveled from ballpark to ballpark around the country in his quest to find the perfect frankfurter. >> quest  (KWEST) n. 1 a pursuit; 2. any journey or search in pursuit of a (usually) noble end

After hours of standing uncovered a carbonated drink loses its fizz and becomes quiescent. / A quiescent pond is a good place to look for tadpoles. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. latent] >> quiescent  (kwee ES int) adj. quiet and still; inactive

Tilting at windmills is the ultimate in quixotic behavior. / Some say that draft-card burning is a quixotic act while others call it heroic. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. impractical] >> quixotic  (kwik SOT ik) adj. foolishly idealistic; visionary; impractical

The cat had a seemingly quizzical expression on its face after it fell off the couch./ Barry chided Tony about his batting slump in a quizzical manner./ Hailee felt that trying to figure out how this gravity thing worked was rather quizzical. /[-ly adv.] >> quizzical  (KWIZ i kuhl) adj. 1. comical; odd; 2. teasing; bantering; 3. perplexing

Aesop was a raconteur whose fables always ended in a moral. / Hans Christian Anderson was a Danish raconteur of great skill. >> raconteur  (RAK ahn TUR) n. a person who is very skilled at telling stories

In a hot-water or steam heating system heat radiates outward from a (what else?) radiator. / As light radiates outward from its source its intensity diminishes. / Spokes radiate outward from the hub of a bicycle wheel. / It’s the job of grandparents to radiate love and presents and to shower them on their grandchildren. /[-d radiating] >> radiate  (RAY dee ayt) vt. 1. to send out rays of heat, light, and so on; 2. to spread out in rays; 3. to branch out from a center as spokes; 4. to spread happiness and good fortune

Senator Brown’s penchant for radicalism brought him the admiration of his friends and the distrust of his enemies./ The surgeon’s reputation for radicalism made his patients think twice before assenting to go under the knife. >> radicalism  (RAD i kil IZ im) n. 1. the quality or state of being extreme, espe- cially in political matters; 2. extreme in principles, ideas, methods, etc.

The argument continued rancorously as each side showed its contempt for the other./ Peter treated double-parkers rancorously by letting the air out of their tires. /[rancorous adj.] >> rancorously  (RAN kir uhs lee) adv. maliciously; spitefully; with continuous bit- ter ill will or hatred

Genghis Khan’s Golden Horde had a reputation well deserved or not for being rapacious. / Lumbermen have been rapacious with the tropical rain forests of South America. / The cross-country railroad builders were rapacious toward the herds of American bison. /[-ly adv.] >> rapacious  (ruh PAY shis) adj. 1. using force to conquer; looting; 2. taking all one can get; voracious; 3. predacious

The rationale for building a bridge is to ford a stream or river. / Paying off the bonds that raised the money to build a bridge or road is the rationale for charging tolls to use it. / A modern recasting of the saying “the ends justify the means” might be “Just do it whatever it is and come up with your rationale later.” >> rationale  (RA shuh NAL) n. 1. the fundamental reasons or logical basis for something; 2. a statement of the reasons for something’s being done or having been done

The revelers had a raucous good time as they partied the night away./ Gerald had a raucous laugh that reminded the average bystander of how a grizzly bear might laugh. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> raucous  (RAW kuhs) adj. 1. hoarse; rough sounding; 2. loud and bawdy

Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction./ When suddenly poked it is a natural reaction to jump./ The forces of reaction would move the country back to horse-and-buggy times. >> reaction  (ree AK shin) n. 1. an opposing action or force; 2. a response to a stimulus; 3. a moving backward to an earlier time’s condition or way of doing things; extreme conservatism

Reactionary forces wish to return the country’s economy to the gold standard./ The political opposite of a radical is a reactionary. /[reactionaries pl.] >> reactionary  (ree AK shin ER ee) adj. characteristic of or advocating definition 3 of reaction —n. one who advocates same

The reagent on a piece of litmus paper turns from blue to red when an acid is present. / Luminol is a reagent that glows when it comes in contact with blood. >> reagent  (ree AY jint) n. a chemical substance used to detect the presence of another or to react so as to change one substance to another

There is usually one rebellious group or another trying to overthrow a government in Central America./ Teenagers frequently become rebellious against parental authority around age 17./ Dan struggled with a very rebellious cowlick of hair. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> rebellious  (ri BEL yis) adj. 1. resisting authority; engaged in armed resistance against the government; 2. of or like rebels; 3. opposing all control; defiant; 4. difficult to treat

Management’s offer of a 2% raise was rebuffed by the union’s representatives./ Marilyn rebuffed Joe’s attempt to get back together./ Liz’s attempt to get the floor refinishers back to fix the flaws in their work was met with a rebuff. /[-ed -ing] >> rebuff  (ri BUF) vt. 1. to snub; bluntly reject; 2. to check or turn back (an advance) —n. a snubbing; an abrupt refusal of advice, help, etc.

Most of today’s criminals started out as yesterday’s recalcitrant children. / Recalcitrant Israelites rebelled against Rome in A.D. 67. / Many a recalcitrant has been sent to the principal’s office. /[-ly adv. recalcitrance n.] [Syn. defiant] >> recalcitrant  (ri KAL si trint) adj. 1. refusing to obey authority, custom, and so on; defiant; 2. hard to handle; difficult —n. a person with the preceding qualities

Flood waters almost always recede. / Looking out the rear window of a car you can watch landmarks recede into the distance. / Most men and women do not appreciate being the owners of a receding hairline. / During the Clinton administration the national debt receded temporarily. /[-d receding] >> recede  (ri SEED) vt. 1. to move back; draw away from; 2. to distance oneself from; 3. to slope backward; 4. to become less; diminish

A radar antenna is both a sender for putting out radio waves and a receptor for receiving the signals when they bounce off something. / The nose contains the receptors for smell while the taste buds are receptors on the tongue. / Rods and cones are light receptors on the retina of the eye. /[Syn. receiver] >> receptor  (ri SEP toer) n. 1. a receiver; 2. a sense organ; a group of nerve endings specializing in receiving impulses

Memorization and recitation of the works of Homer were the main pillars of a classical Greek education. / Many tickets were sold for tonight’s Keats’ recitation at the Town Hall. >> recitation  (RES i TAY shin) n. 1. a public speaking of some memorized verse or prose; 2. a gathering at which this occurs

Paul’s mom was nervous about his going skiing—especially because he had a history of recklessness./ What appears to be recklessness on the part of professional daredevils has usually been very carefully planned out so as to avoid injury. /[reckless adj. recklessly adv.] >> recklessness  (REK lis NIS) n. 1. foolhardiness; carelessness; 2. rashness; disre- gard for consequences

Howard Hughes chose to spend the last years of his life as a recluse. / A recluse can be considered an antisocial individual. /[reclusive adj. reclusively adv.] [Syn. hermit] >> recluse  (rik LOOS) n. one who lives a life of solitude and seclusion by choice

At least once a month everyone should reconcile his or her checkbook to make sure that what is in the account jibes with what the book shows./ Jan and Mary reconciled their differences over who should have brought the watermelon to the picnic./ The divorced couple reconciled for the sake of the children. /[-d* reconciling reconciliation n.] >> reconcile  (REK in SYL) vt. 1. make consistent; 2. become friendly again; 3. to settle

Rocket science is as recondite as well rocket science. / Brain surgery is quite recondite but less so than rocket science. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. abstruse] >> recondite  (REK uhn dyt) adj. very profound; beyond the grasp of a normal human mind; obscure; abstruse

Corporal Smith was sent ahead to reconnoiter the lay of the land and look for enemy troops./ The surveyor was sent to the prospective shopping center to reconnoiter the property and the existing traffic patterns and to assess the practicality of the project. /[-ed -ing] >> reconnoiter  (REE kin OY tir) vt. 1. to make a reconnaisance, that is, to seek out information about enemy installations or positions; 2. to make a preliminary survey

When Sue threatened to take Jim to court over his dog’s digging up her roses he threatened recrimination over her cat’s destroying his vegetable garden./ Barbara threatened recrimination if Barry complained to the authorities about her noisy party. /[(to) recriminate vi.] >> recrimination  (ree KRIM in AY shin) n. the answering of an accusation by accusing the accuser; countercharge

Roberta tried to rectify the error that she had made when she omitted Jack’s name from the guest list./ Mr. Jones rectified the boundary dispute with his neighbor by moving his fence. /[rectified -ing] >> rectify  (REK ti FY) vt. 1. to set right; correct; 2. (electricity) to convert alternat- ing current to direct current

Richard made a redemptive effort with his silver certificates but was told the time for cashing them in for metal had passed. / In the biblical narrative of Abraham’s sacrifice of his son Isaac God provides a ram as a redemptive substitute for Isaac’s life. /[-ly adv. redemption n.] >> redemptive  (ri DEMP tiv) adj. 1. serving to redeem or get back, as in trading paper money for silver or gold, or trading stamps; 2. serving to save one’s life or soul by the sacrifice of paying a ransom

Atilla the Hun’s horsemen constituted a redoubtable force./ Heavy machinery is redoubtable and one working with it must exercise care at all times. >> redoubtable  (ree DOWT ib il) adj. 1. formidable; fearsome; 2. commanding respect

Certain stores price items so that they may advertise reductive pricing schemes./ Good science teachers take a reductive approach to the subject matter so that they can feed the concepts to the students in bite-sized portions. /[-ly adv.] >> reductive  (ree DUHK tiv) adj. 1. of or characterized by making smaller or lower- ing in price; 2. tending to making things less complex (usually a disparaging term)

To say that the dirty laundry is not very clean is a redundancy./ Due to a redundancy of grain produced most years by U.S. farmers some of them are paid by the government not to grow certain crops./ Many commercial airliners have redundancies deliberately built into them to back up the main systems./ “Is not very clean” is the redundancy in the first sentence. /[redundancies pl. redundance n.] >> redundancy  (ree DUHN din see) n. 1. the quality of being excessive; super- fluity; 2. an overabundance; 3. something that says something already said or does something already done; 4. the part of a redundant statement that is superfluous

When white light refracts through a triangular prism it separates into the colors of the rainbow./ An ophthalmologist or optometrist refracts one’s eyes to determine the proper curvature for corrective lenses. /[-ed -ing -ion n.] >> refract  (rif RAKT) vt. 1. to cause a ray of light to bend, as it does when passing obliquely from one medium to another of different density; 2. to measure the degree of bending of a ray of light

A mule is a very refractory animal and must be handled with care. / The iron age came about rather late in history because of the refractory nature of the metal’s ore. / Botanists have worked for decades to produce refractory strains of corn and tomatoes. /[refractorily adv. refractoriness n.] >> refractory  (ri FRAK toer ee) adj. 1. hard to handle; stubborn (said about an animal or person); 2. heat resistant; hard to work or melt (said about metal ore); 3. resistant to disease

Mr. Brown’s fingerprints and gloves found at the scene of the crime refute his contention that he was never there./ It is the defense attorney’s job to refute the prosecutor’s case so that the defendant will be found not guilty. /[-d refuting refutable adj. refutably adv.] [Syn. disprove] >> refute  (rif YOOT) vt. 1. to prove to be wrong; 2. to prove incorrect by argument or evidence

The opulent party thrower regaled his guests with champagne caviar and truffled paté./ The audience at the Mayfair Theater last night was regaled by a confection of music and dance. /[-d regaling] >> regale  (ri GAYL) vt. 1. to entertain with a great feast; 2. to delight with some- thing enjoyable or amusing

Those who go to a party with an upset stomach are likely to regurgitate any and all refreshments they partake of./ Some teachers ask their students to regurgitate what they have learned on exams rather than to apply the knowledge in a meaningful way. /[-d regurgitating regurgitation n.] [Syn. vomit] >> regurgitate  (ri GOER ji TAYT) vt. 1. to cause to flow backward, notably from the stomach to the mouth; 2. to give back information that has been only partially digested

If your mother has told you once she’s reiterated it 1000 times: Keep your elbows off the table!/ Those who have not learned the lessons of history are doomed to reiterate them. /[-d reiterating] [Syn. repeat] >> reiterate  (ree IT er AYT) vt. to say or do again or repeatedly

It is easy for seemingly reformed criminals to relapse into their evil ways. / Just when Gloria seemed to be getting better she relapsed into her illness. / Ralph was expected to return to work shortly but that was before his relapse. /[-d relapsing] >> relapse  (ri LAPS for v., REE laps for n.) vi. 1. to fall back into bad habits or evil ways; 2. to have a recurrence of a disease one had recovered from or was in the process of recovering from —n. a falling back into

After years of successfully fighting her compulsion to gamble Norma relapsed at the Kentucky Derby./ Just as Carlos seemed ready to be released from intensive care he suffered a relapse. /[-d relapsing] >> relapse  (ree LAPS) vt. to slip or fall back into a former condition, disease, or bad habit, especially after improvement —n. the act of having a relapse or a recurrence

Sir Edwin Hillary was relentless in his attempt to be the first westerner to reach Mt. Everest’s peak. / The hurricane’s winds were relentless as they damaged many buildings in the Carolinas. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. pitiless] >> relentless  (ri LENT lis) adj. 1. not easing up or slackening; pitiless; harsh; 2. persistent; unremitting

Carla relinquished all claim to part ownership of Ira’s cat./ By the Treaty of Torsedilla Spain relinquished all claims on Brazil to Portugal./ Mike relinquished his sidearm to the palace guard. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. abandon waive forego] >> relinquish  (ri LIN kwish) vt. 1. to abandon (a claim); 2. to surrender (something); 3. to give up

The defendant in most trials is usually a reluctant participant./ Mark seemed reluctant to accept Abbie’s excuse for not being able to go bowling on Thursday night. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. loath unwilling] >> reluctant  (ri LUHK tint) adj. 1. unwilling or opposed to participating in; disinclined; 2. marked by unwillingness

Don’t be remiss in paying your income taxes on time./ The yard clearly showed that the house’s last owner had been remiss in performing lawn maintenance. /[Syn. negligent neglectful lax] >> remiss  (ri MISS) adj. 1. negligent in; careless about; lax; 2. marked by careless- ness or negligence

Only a small remnant of the turkey remained after the feasters at Bob and Barbara’s were finished with it. / The ice-cream cake disappeared without leaving a remnant behind./ Carpet remnants are usually very good buys and in some cases can be room size. /[Syn. scrap remainder] >> remnant  (REM nint) n. 1. what is left over; remainder; 2. a small remaining part or quantity; 3. last trace; 4. a piece of cloth or carpet left at the end of a roll

A painter usually expects remuneration when his job is completed./ Remuneration should be appropriate to the nature of the job performed. /[Syn. payment] >> remuneration  (ri MYOO noer AY shin) n. 1. the act of paying for work done; 2. reward; payment; compensation

The painter will render the bill to his customer upon completing the job./ The Lone Ranger renders good in response to evil./ Ralph rendered Phyllis thanks for a job well done./ The architect rendered a drawing of the new kitchen. /[-ed* -ing] >> render  (REN dir) vt. 1. to deliver, present, or submit for payment (for example, a bill); 2. to give in return; 3. to pay something due or owed; 4. to represent or depict

Jason enjoyed renovating homes so much that he gave up his teaching job to do it full-time./ When you renovate your kitchen you can expect to improvise and put up with inconveniences until the job is done./ Wallie felt renovated after her plunge in the ocean. /[-d renovating] [Syn. renew] >> renovate  (REN uh VAYT) vt. 1. to make sound again; to clean up and make like new; 2. to revive; refresh

His renunciation of all claims to the motorcycle came only after receiving a fair amount in compensation./ The applicant signed the renunciation of rights to the deed to the house until the mortgage had been paid off. /[Syn. disclaimer] >> renunciation  (ri NUHN see AY shin) n. 1. the act of formally giving up, often at the cost of a right, claim, title, etc.; 2. a formal declaration of the foregoing

The embezzler was ordered by the court to pay reparations to the persons he had swindled. / After World War I Germany was required to pay reparations to her former enemies which sent her economy into total ruin. / Barney brought his torn trousers to the tailor for reparation. /[Syn. compensation] >> reparation  (REP oer AY shuhn) n. 1. a making of amends for some wrong or injury; 2. compensation paid by one country to another to make up for having warred against them; 3. repairing of damage

Ralph had a deep feeling of repentance for not having gotten to know his father better./ Absolution by repentance for indiscretions and sins is one of the attractive qualities of the Catholic Church. /[Syn. penitence] >> repentance  (re PEN tins) n. a feeling of sorrow or self-reproach for what one has done or has not done

The judge told the hit-and-run driver that his behavior had been reprehensible./ Reprehensible behavior is not permissible under any circumstances—even if you can get away with it. /[reprehensibly adv.] >> reprehensible  (REP ri HEN si bl) adj. deserving reprimand or rebuke; fault filled; awful

It is sometimes difficult to repress a yawn especially when someone else yawns first. / Stalin repressed almost all his country’s people but especially the minorities. / By repressing a child one can prevent his or her developing into a healthy individual. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. subdue] >> repress  (ri PRES) vt. 1. to hold down or keep back; restrain; 2. to subdue or put down; 3. to control so strictly as to prevent natural development or expression (as a child)

Fran repudiated any responsibility for the behavior of her ex-husband./ The ancient Romans typically did not repudiate the religious beliefs of their captured subjects as long as the subjects continued to pay taxes to Rome./ It is typical of war criminals to repudiate the power of the courts that are trying them. /[-d repudiating] >> repudiate  (ri PYOO dee AYT) vt. 1. refuse to have anything to do with; dis- own; 2. to deny the validity or authority of (a charge, a belief, etc.); 3. to refuse to acknowledge (a government)

The colonel left a rear guard to repulse any attempt to surprise his army from behind. / The new neighbor repulsed any attempt on the part of the older residents to welcome him and his family. / Jennifer was repulsed by the bowl of roasted grasshoppers that Allen placed on the picnic table. /[-d repulsing] [Syn. repel] >> repulse  (ri PULS) vt. 1. to repel or drive back; 2. to repel with coldness and lack of courtesy; 3. to disgust and repel; to be disgusting

Tom made no attempt to hide his resentment of the fact that Mom always liked Dick best./ A certain former president who shall go nameless tried to hide his resentment that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences never honored him for his movie work. /[Syn. offense] >> resentment  (ri ZENT mint) n. feelings of displeasure from having been ignored, snubbed, offended, or injured

Gary showed that he was resilient by hitting a home run after striking out three consecutive times. / Foam rubber is a very resilient material and cushions made from it retain their shape after being sat on hundreds of times. / Ursala showed that she was resilient by joking with the paramedics only moments after they pulled her from the rubble of the collapsed building. /[-ly adv. resilience n.] [Syn. elastic] >> resilient  (ri ZIL yint) adj. 1. bouncing back from adversity; 2. springing back into shape after having been distorted; 3. recovering strength, spirit, and good humor

We must stay resolute in our refusal to give in to terrorists./ Elaine was resolute in her plan to climb Mount Everest. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. faithful] >> resolute  (REZ i loot) adj. having or showing a firm resolve; determined; pur- poseful; unwavering

A digital picture’s resolution often depends on how many pixels it is made up of./ The two parties worked toward the resolution of their difficulties./ The resolution to the dispute was to split the baby into two equal parts. (Hmm where have I heard that before?)/ The General Assembly’s resolution passed by a unanimous vote./ To find the resolution to a complex math problem you should first separate the problem into its parts and then solve each of those. >> resolution  (rez i LOO shin) n. 1. the act or process of breaking something up into its constituent parts; 2. a determining or deciding; 3. the thing determined or decided; 4. a formal statement or opinion adopted by a group; 5. a solution or answering of a question or problem

A prism can resolve white light into the colors of a rainbow. / The two sides tried for weeks to resolve their dispute. / Einstein resolved the relationship between energy and matter. / Edward expressed his resolve to find a solution. /[-d resolving] [Syn. decide] >> resolve  (ri ZOLV) vt. 1. to break up into constituent parts; to analyze; 2. to change; 3. to cause; 4. to show the solution —n. firmness of purpose; determination

She was resplendent bedecked in her finest jewelry./ The ship was resplendent in the morning sun as she made ready to sail to the Caribbean. /[-ly adv. resplendence n.] >> resplendent  (ris PLEN dint) adj. brightly shining; dazzling; splendid

The responsibility for anything that happens on this ship is the captain’s alone./ On a field trip the teacher takes responsibility for all the students’ well-being./ The children are the babysitter’s responsibility. >> responsibility  (ris PAHN si BIL i tee) n. 1. condition or quality of being accountable for something’s happening; accountability, dependability, obliged, etc.; 2. a thing or person that one holds accountability for

The patient is confined to her bed by Velcro restraints./ Sometimes we need to use restraint to keep from eating that extra dessert treat./ The Constitution of the United States permits no restraint of freedom of speech which doesn’t mean that it doesn’t happen./ Restraint like everything else should be exercised in moderation. >> restraint  (ris TRAYNT) n. 1. a holding back or being held back; 2. an influence or action that holds something back; 3. a limitation of liberty; 4. emotional con- trol; impulse control; reserve; constraint

One needs to make the monthly mortgage payments to retain ownership of a house./ Walt Disney retained his stock in the company long after he had ceased running it./ It is not easy for all people to retain facts in their minds./ If you intend to pursue your interest in this matter it might be advisable for you to retain an attorney. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. keep] >> retain  (ree TAYN) vt. 1. to keep; maintain possession of; 2. to continue to have or to hold in; 3. to keep in mind; 4. to hire (as a lawyer)

Despite the Constitution’s prohibiting ex post facto laws many tax laws are retroactive./ The congressional budget is always retroactive to the beginning of the current fiscal year even though it is usually approved well after that date. /[-ly adv.] >> retroactive  (RET roh AK tiv) adj. 1. affecting things that took place earlier; 2. going into effect at a specified date in the past

It is often fun to take a retrospective look at one’s early years./ Beethoven’s work in retrospective changed classical music for all time./ The museum is having a retrospective on the works of Picasso next month. /[-ly adv.] >> retrospective  (RET roh SPEK tiv) adj. 1. looking back on or toward the past; 2. applying to the past; retroactive —n. an exhibition of the lifetime work of a person (usually one in the arts); a compendium of one’s life’s work

Most college students become revelers at one time or another./ Some college students are revelers for four years/ then they spend the rest of their lives wondering why they did that./ A reveler should always have a designated driver preselected. /[revel vi. revelry reveller n.] >> reveler  (REV il oer) n. 1. one who is noisily partying; 2. one delighting in one’s freedom; 3. a merrymaker

Clergymen are often held by their flock in reverence./ Reverence is usually the proper attitude to assume during religious services and preparing for SAT exams. / Great reverence permeates the state funeral of a former U.S. president. /[Syn. honor awe] >> reverence  (REV ir ins) n. 1. a feeling of respect, love, and awe (as for something sacred or venerated); 2. a gesture of respect to indicate same; 3. the state of being regarded with deep respect

Revulsion swept through the world at the untimely demise of President Kennedy./ To avoid causing your revulsion we aver that no animals were harmed in the making of this book. /[Syn. aversion] >> revulsion  (riv UHL shin) n. extreme shock, disgust, or repugnance; a feeling of great loathing

Former President Reagan was extremely good at connecting with the pub- lic through use of rhetoric./ Political conventions are always filled with rhetoric for the party faithful but unrelated to the real world. >> rhetoric  (RET oer ik) n. 1. the art or skill of using words effectively in speaking or writing; 2. language that is showy or elaborate, but lacking in clarity or originality of ideas or emotions; phony eloquence

Rhinestones were first created in Germany’s Rhine Valley. / Since their creation rhinestones have been popular in costume jewelry. /[Syn. fake gem glass] >> rhinestone  (RYN stohn) n. a piece of colorless glass cut to look like a diamond

Certain political leaders are easier than others to ridicule by drawing carica- tures of them./ Political cartoonists are specialists in the art of ridicule. /[-d ridiculing] [Syn. deride mock taunt] >> ridicule  (RID ik yool) vt. the act of making someone or something the object of scorn; to mock; to poke fun at

Steel beams are rigid which is why they are used in construction. / Orthodox religions tend to be rigid in their interpretation of the right way to live and worship. / The rules for raising children should be consistent but not really rigid. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] [Syn. unbending] >> rigid  (RI jid) adj. 1. not flexible; unbending; stiff; 2. severe; exacting; strict

Almost every religion has some sort of rite of passage from childhood into adulthood./ Stravinsky celebrated the pagan rite of spring in his tone poem of the same name. /[Syn. ceremony] >> rite  (RYT) n. 1 a formal ceremony or act associated with a relegious procedure or observance; 2. any customary formal observance, procedure, or practice

Rivets are used to fasten steel beams together and to fasten an airplane’s skin to its frame. / Rivets are often used on blue jeans and coveralls. / When parts are riveted together they can’t be loosened the way they can when screws are used. / Roxane’s eyes were riveted by the sight of the jumbo jet coming in for a landing. /[-ed -ing] >> rivet  (RI vit) n. 1. a metal bolt with a head on one end (which is heated and put through holes and then flattened on its straight end by hammering), used to fasten metal girders or plates together; 2. something similar used to reinforce seams on work clothes —vt. 1. to fasten with rivets; 2. to hold or fix (one’s attention, eyes, and so on)

The Arthurian legend is a romantic story of the love triangle between Arthur Guinevere and Lancelot./ Many girls have a romantic notion about being carried away by Prince Charming to live happily ever after./ Karl Marx’s notion of a society where each person does what he can and receives what he needs was a romantic one./ Beethoven’s later works ushered in the Romantic Movement in music. /[-ally adv.] >> romantic  (roh MAN tik) adj. 1. having the nature of or characterized by romance (idealized imagined love and adventure stories); 2. without factual basis; 3. not practi- cal; guided by emotion rather than thought —n. a romantic person; romantic litera- ture or music from the Romantic Movement (early to mid-nineteenth century)

A rudder seems to be a very effective way to steer a boat/ it has been on every watercraft except small rowed boats since ancient times. / An airplane’s rudder is almost always the rearmost part of the craft. / The White House often tries to act as a rudder for public opinion. >> rudder  (RUHD er) n. 1. a flat board fixed to the back of a boat or ship and used to steer; 2. a movable attachment to the vertical stabilizer of an aircraft; 3. a guide or control

Allen’s mom did not want him hanging out with ruffians after school./ Ruffians are often the bane of an otherwise nice neighborhood. >> ruffian  (RUHF ee in) n. a hoodlum; a violent, lawless, brutal person; a tough guy

Cattle antelope deer buffalo and giraffes all ruminate. / Jerri ruminated over the job offer made to her by a competing company. / Ian ruminated over which of the three universities’ offers of admission he was going to accept. /[-d ruminating] [Syn. meditate] >> ruminate  (ROO min ayt) vt. 1. to chew cud, like a cow or other ruminant; 2. to think over; consider; meditate

Rural America is where you’ll find the cows grazing./ Grant Wood’s American Gothic depicts an imaginary typical rural couple (who have no relation to a real one)./ A plow and a tractor are necessities of rural living. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. bucolic pastoral rustic] >> rural  (RUR il) adj. 1. not urban or suburban; of the countryside; 2. living in the country; 3. having to do with farming

Atilla the Hun was ruthless toward his opponents. / Neil used to go out with a girl named Ruth but since she ruthlessly left him he’s been Ruthless. / Organized crime is looking for ruthless persons to work as enforcers. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. cruel] >> ruthless  (ROOTH lis) adj. having no pity; pitiless; cruel

The Catholic Church insists on the sacrosanctity of the marriage vows./ To Muslims the sacrosanctity of the Dome of the Rock must not be violated by nonbelievers. >> sacrosanctity  (SAK ri SANKTt i tee) n. something very sacred; holiness; inviolability

A sagacious person limits the amount of money he brings to the tables in a casino./ One who drinks alcoholic beverages and then drives is not sagacious. /[sagaciously adv.] [Syn. shrewd] >> sagacious  (suh GAY shis) adj. wise; showing keen perception and sound judgment

Regular exercise has a salutary effect on one’s health. / Over the years the use of new materials in running shoes has had a salutary effect on the speed of sprinters. /[salutarily adv.] [Syn. beneficial] >> salutary  (SAL yoo TER ee) adj. 1. conducive to or promoting good health; 2. serving a good purpose in some way; beneficial

Ken was able to salvage few household goods after the tornado had gone./ Some divers make a living from salvaging valuables from shipwrecks./ The sunken hulks of lost ships are sometimes raised and sold for their salvage value. /[-d salvaging] [Syn. save rescue] >> salvage  (SAL vij) vt. to save or rescue from a shipwreck, or fire, flood, etc.; to engage in the saving of goods or wrecked ships —n. anything so rescued, especially the refloating of lost ships for historical purpose or for monetary compensation, or the recovery of goods from wreckages

A sanctimonious person is one with a “holier-than-thou” attitude./ Fred Flanders was extremely sanctimonious until he was caught one day with his hand in the cookie jar. /[sanctimoniously adv.] [Syn. devout] >> sanctimonious  (SANK ti MOH nee is) adj. pretending to be very holy or pious; feigning righteousness

State governments sanction marriages within their borders./ Sue sanctioned her daughter’s going after her employer in court for failing to pay her in full for her services./ The United States has imposed economic sanctions on Cuba since the early 1960s. /[sanctioned* -ing] >> sanction  (SANK shin) vt. 1. authorized approval or empowerment from an authoritative agent or agency; 2. support, encouragement; 3. a coercive measure taken by a group (like a boycott) to bring someone or something into line

When Alice told Phil that his new Mohawk haircut looked awesome she was being sarcastic/ she meant awful./ A sarcastic remark often means the opposite of what is said like irony. /[sarcastically adv.] >> sarcastic  (sahr KAS tik) adj. 1. a taunting remark that has the nature of being caustic, cutting, and/or ironic (usually with the intent to hurt); 2. one who uses such remarks (sarcastic usually implies the intent to hurt)

The earliest known satires are the plays of Aristophanes./ In the guise of a travelogue Gulliver’s Travels is one of the most famous satires of the nineteenth century./ Mark Twain was especially adept at satire as was Oscar Wilde. /[satiric adj. satirically adv.] [Syn. caricature wit] >> satire  (SAT ah yir) n. a literary work, or works, that uses sarcasm, irony, etc. to expose and attack or deride vices, foibles, etc.

A scalpel was the only way of making surgical incisions before the arrival of the surgical laser./ Going in for an operation is often referred to as “going under the scalpel.” >> scalpel  (SKAL pil) n. a small, light knife with a very sharp blade used by surgeons and for dissections

Being a scapegoat has a long tradition in history beginning with an ancient king who kept a goat around to take the blame for everything./ Killing the messenger who brought the bad news continued the tradition of using a scapegoat. >> scapegoat  (SKAYP goht) n. a person, place, or thing upon which the crimes or misdeeds of others are blamed

Schematic diagrams of a car’s wiring are in every automobile’s service manual. / An architect’s version of a schematic is usually drawn in white on a blue background and is known as a blueprint. >> schematic  (ski MAT ik) n. a drawing of an architect’s plan (blueprint) or a drawing to show the layout of something, such as electrical wiring

A scholar used to refer exclusively to a learned person or one learned in a particular field such as a biblical scholar or an art scholar./ Former President Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar which means in essence that he was paid to study at Oxford./ My youngest scholar just finished kindergarten. /[Syn. pupil] >> scholar  (SKAH lir) n. 1. a learned person; 2. the recipient of scholarship assis- tance; 3. any pupil

It is a scientific fact that gravity pulls everything toward the center of the earth./ Many scientific principles were discovered and/or stated by Sir Isaac Newton./ Before a medicine is approved by the FDA for public use it must be scientifically proven to be more helpful than it is harmful. /[scientifically adv.] >> scientific  (SY in TIF ik) adj. 1. of or pertaining to science; 2. based on the prin- ciples of science, rather than superstition or conjecture; 3. proven methods

A physician who specializes in research is a scientist./ Social scientists such as sociologists and psychologists are not considered true scientists by the scientific establishment. / Scientists divide their numbers into life scientists (botanists and zoologists) physical scientists (chemists and physicists) and earth/space scientists (geologists meteorologists and astronomers). (geologists meteorologists and astronomers). >> scientist  (SY in TIST) n. a specialist whose profession is one of the physical, earth, or life sciences (that is, biology, geology, astronomy, chemistry, and physics)

If a deal sounds too good to be true scrutinize it because almost invariably it will prove to be so./ A jeweler uses a loupe to scrutinize diamonds and other gemstones. /[-d scrutinizing] [Syn. examine inspect] >> scrutinize  (SKROOT in YZ) vt. to look at very carefully; examine closely

Legislative bodies should always be under the scrutiny of the electorate. / After extensive scrutiny of the pros and cons the New Jersey Nets’ new owners decided to move the team to Brooklyn New York. / For decades U.S. satellites and spy planes kept the Soviet Union under scrutiny. >> scrutiny  (SKROO tin ee) n. 1. close examination; close inspection; 2. a long, continuous watch; surveillance

Sculptures can be as small as cameos that women wear as jewelry or as large as the presidential faces that adorn Mount Rushmore./ Rodin’s “The Thinker” is one of the best-known sculptures of nineteenth- century Europe./ Michelangelo preferred to sculpture in marble and insisted that the statue had always been in the marble/ he had just removed the excess stone./ The forces of wind and water have served to sculpture the thousands of natural sculptures that adorn Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park. /[-d sculpturing sculptural adj. sculpturally adv.] >> sculpture  (SKUHLP chir) n. 1. the art of carving wood, chiseling stone, molding metal or clay, etc. into three-dimensional figures, statues, etc.; 2. any figure so made or collection of same —vt. 1. to cut, carve, mold, chisel, etc. into figures, statuary, etc.; 2. to change a form by erosion

A veil of secrecy surrounded the building of the first atomic bomb./ The secrecy surrounding the just-referenced Manhattan Project could not approach the secrecy of the formula for Coca-Cola syrup./ The government maintains secrecy of things it does not want the public to know about by categorizing such events as classified. >> secrecy  (SEE kri see) n. 1. the condition of being concealed or secret; 2. the practice of keeping things hushed up

Many find a warm glass of milk is useful at night as a sedative in order to relax before going to bed./ After observing the car accident Mema needed a sedative to calm her down. >> sedative  (SED it iv) adj. soothing or quieting; —n. medicine that soothes nerv- ousness or excitement

Mack was sedulous in his studies of Elizabethan poetry. / Jeannie was sedulous in making sure that she got the best interest rate available. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. busy] >> sedulous  (SEJ oo lis) adj. 1. working steadily and hard; diligent; 2. persistent

Segment BC is the part of a line with endpoints at B and C./ A segment is the shortest distance between two points. /[Syn. part] >> segment  (SEG mint) n. 1. a division or section of something; 2. (geometry) a part of a line between two named endpoints, one of which has legs on it.

Selfishness is the reason for the breakup of most marriages./ Richard demonstrated his selfishness by eating all the strawberries off the top of the strawberry shortcake before anyone had been served. >> selfishness  (SEL fish nis) n. 1. a condition of being overly concerned with one’s own well-being to the exclusion of all others; self-centeredness; 2. prompted by self-interest

The court sentenced the criminal to a 20-year term./ In grammar a phrase is much like a sentence except that a phrase does not convey a complete thought./ After a jury has found a person guilty the judge may sentence that person to anything from probation to death. /[-d sentencing] >> sentence  (SENT ins) n. 1. the judgment of a court of law; 2. a group of words that express a complete thought —vt. to pronounce judgment; condemn; pro- nounce punishment

My sentiment tells me that you are a very discriminating person but I’m usually not a good judge of character./ The retro look of some automobiles popular in the early part of this cen- tury is a blatant appeal to the sentiment of cherishing the past./ Gail told Gil that he could stay but her tone of voice made it clear that her sentiment was far from welcoming. /[Syn. opinion feeling] >> sentiment  (SENT i mint) n. 1. a complex combination of opinions and feelings; 2. an emotional attitude; 3. the meaning behind something

Hershey’s chocolate makers had the serendipity to discover both peanut butter cups and the shape of the Hershey Kiss./ Discovering that alloying copper and tin made the hard metal bronze was a case of serendipity for early man because the two rarely occurred together in nature. /[serendipitous adj. serendipitously adv.] >> serendipity  (SER in DIP it ee) n. 1. an apparent gift for discovering good things by accident; 2. luck or good fortune in accidentally finding something good

The subject of many a sermon has been that fools rush in where angels fear to tread. / It is not unusual for the giver of a sermon to be referred to as preachy. >> sermon  (SOER min) n. 1. a speech given as instruction on religious subject mat- ter or morality by a clergyman during a religious service; 2. any speech on behav- ior, especially a long-winded, boring one

Navigators have used sextants to guide ships since the second half of the eighteenth century. / The sextant is named for its shape which is a pie-shaped sixth of a circle. >> sextant  (SEKS tint) n. a navigational instrument used at sea to find the position of a ship by sighting the horizon and a known star

Shards of broken pottery can be packed into the bottom of a flowerpot to provide drainage for plants.  >> shard  (SHAHRD) n. 1. a broken fragment of pottery or glass; 2. (zoology) a hard covering such as a shell, plate, or scale

A recovering alcoholic must shun all contact with alcoholic beverages./ It is a healthy idea for everyone to shun cigarette smoke both first- and secondhand. /[-ned -ning] >> shun  (SHUHN) vt. delibera tely stay away from; scrupulously and consistently avoid

John Hancock was the first signatory of the Declaration of Independence. / A signatory to a contract accepts responsibility for fulfilling that contract. /[signatories pl.] [Syn. endorser] >> signatory  (SIG nuh TAW ree) n. a signer; one who signed an agreement, treaty, contract, and so on

Making a kite is simplicity itself and requires only two light sticks some paper and some string./ Jane’s wedding dress was elegant by its very simplicity being just a shiny white untooled satin./ Jack demonstrated his simplicity when he said “Nice kitty” just prior to sticking his head into the lion’s mouth. >> simplicity  (sim PLIS it ee) n. 1. freedom from complexity or intricacy; simple state; simple quality; 2. plainness; lack of elegance or embellishment; 3. foolishness; lacking sense

It is simplistic to believe that a calculus problem can be solved while stand- ing on one foot./ Trying to fix an overheating car engine by adding cold water is taking a simplistic approach—and is also likely to get you burned. /[-ally adv.] >> simplistic  (sim PLIS tik) adj. taking a complicated situation and making it unre- alistically simple; oversimplified

The dress was made simply in a short time./ Faith was simply trying to be nice by offering her help./ Will was simply furious with the way he had been treated. >> simply  (SIM plee) adv. 1. in a simple way; with simplicity; 2. merely; only; just; 3. absolutely; totally

Some grand-prix automobile race tracks sport sinuate sections unlike American ovals where cars only turn left./ Some slicing knives have sinuate edges for thinly slicing cold cuts and hard cheeses./ Some of the most dangerous drivers are ones who sinuate through traffic. /[-d sinuating -ly adv.] >> sinuate  (SIN yoo it for adj., SIN yoo ayt for v.) adj. 1. s-shaped, like a sine curve; sinuous; 2. having an indented, wavy edge, like some leaves —vi. to bend or wind in and out

In Columbus’s day learned people were not as skeptical about the earth’s being round as elementary history books would have us believe./ People from Missouri have a reputation for being skeptical/ they have to be shown./ Agnostics are generally skeptical about many religious teachings. /[-ly adv.] >> skeptical  (SKEP ti kl) adj. 1. not easily persuaded or convinced; inclined to doubt; questioning; 2. doubting religious doctrine

Skepticism as a philosophy began in ancient Greece where its advocates claimed that man did not have the tools to determine what is and what is not true./ A healthy skepticism is a good thing for those who would prefer not to be flimflammed by pie-in-the-sky advertising claims. /[Syn. uncertainty] >> skepticism  (SKEP ti si zm) n. 1. a philosophy that neither truth nor knowledge is attainable by human beings; 2. a doubting attitude, especially pertaining to reli- gious doctrine

Night watchmen have a reputation—some would say undeserved—for slumbering while on the job./ A volcano that has been inactive for recorded history is more safely regard- ed as in slumber rather than dead./ A pair of pajamas is usually required for a slumber party. / When Mom or Dad is snoring in the armchair you might call that a moment of slumber. /[-ed -ing -er n.] >> slumber  (SLUM bir) vi. 1. to sleep; 2. to be inactive or dormant —n. 1. sleep; 2. a state of inactivity

When tin and copper are smelted together in the proper proportions bronze is the result. / Steel is a product of smelting where certain impurities are deliberately added to give the finished product desirable qualities. / I ate some delicious fried smelts with cocktail sauce last night as an appetizer. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. refine] >> smelt  (SMELT) vt. 1 to heat or fuse ore; to refine; 2. to separate impurities from metal by heating it —n. small silver-colored food fish found in northern lakes and seas

Jackie Robinson never showed any smugness for all his accomplishments in major-league baseball./ A good deal of smugness was shown by the mayor of Los Angeles when he lured the Brooklyn Dodgers to the West Coast. >> smugness  (SMUG nis) n. self-satisfaction to an annoying degree; complacency

If a car is being driven erratically it might be pulled over and the driver given a sobriety test. / During the Cuban missile crisis of the early 1960s the entire world recog- nized the sobriety of the situation. >> sobriety  (suh BRY i tee) n. 1. the state of being temperate and not overindulging, especially in alcoholic drinks; soberness; 2. seriousness

The society of the Amish living around Lancaster Pennsylvania is distinct- ly different from the society of Chinatown in San Francisco California./ Those living on a kibbutz in Israel live in a society where every member depends on every other member./ The society we all live in is known as the civilized world./ Those forming the so-called high society live in a world of debutante balls and coming-out parties. /[societies pl. societal social adj. socially adv.] >> society  (suh SY it ee) n. 1. a group of persons forming a community with a distinct social or economic connection; 2. the system or condition of living together commu- nally; 3. all people collectively, or a particular strata thereof, usually upper crust

Company is always a solace to someone feeling lonely./ One who grieves for a loved one often takes solace in remembering only the good things about the departed./ Volunteers often work to solace those confined to hospital beds. /[Syn. comfort] >> solace  (SAH lis) n. 1. an easing of loneliness, grief, or discomfort; 2. comfort; relief —vt. 1. to comfort; console; 2. to give relief

Marjorie offered her solicitude for her neighbor whose son and daughter had both shipped out with their military units./ Marjorie accepted Sally’s solicitude politely but after Sally left Marjorie mumbled to herself that she wished everyone would leave her alone so that she could get some rest. /[Syn. care] >> solicitude  (suh LIS it ood) n. the state of showing care, concern, etc., some- times to excess

Going to the ballpark together often helps to solidify a relationship between father and son./ A mother-daughter relationship is traditionally solidified by baking cookies. (Eat your heart out Murphy Brown!)/ At 0° Celsius water solidifies and becomes ice./ Tamping down the gravel helps to solidify the base for a patio. /[solidified -ing] >> solidify  (suh LID i fy) vt. 1. to unite or firm up (a relationship); 2. to make a liquid into a solid; firm; compact; harden

Sugar and salt are both easily soluble while flour is not./ New York Times crossword puzzles are definitely soluble although they get harder as the week goes on and Saturday’s puzzle is a real brainteaser. /[solubly adv.] [Syn. dissolvable solvable] >> soluble  (SAHL yoo bil) adj. 1. capable of being dissolved (passed into solution) in water; 2. capable of being solved

When JFK was shot the mood of the country was very somber./ Veronica was somber reflecting on how much she missed not having been invited to the senior dance./ A somber air pervaded the landing craft’s occupants as it approached the beach on D-Day. /[-ly adv.] >> somber  (SAHM bir) adj. 1. dark and gloomy; dull; 2. melancholy; mentally depressed; 3. grave

Shakespeare was noted for his sonnets in addition to his dramatic writings./ The sonnets of Petrarch (1304–1374) are among the earliest known./ Both Robert Browning and his future wife Elizabeth Barrett wrote sonnets to each other. >> sonnet  (SAHN it) n. a poem, usually 14 lines in length in iambic pentameter, generally on a single theme

City folk tend to be more sophisticated than country folk./ The engines that drive a rocket can be very sophisticated/ after all it is rocket science. /[-ly adv. sophistication n.] >> sophisticated  (suh FIS ti KAY tid) adj. 1. urbane, world wise, knowledgeable, as opposed to naive or simple; 2. very complex and refined

Saddam Hussein’s regime in Iraq was sordid. / Sordid behavior was customary in the cow towns of the Old West where debauchery was the norm. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. base] >> sordid  (SAWR did) adj. dirty; filthy; wretched; base; ignoble; mean

Fidel Castro’s speeches are often characterized by a spate of words that continue for hours./ When faced with spates the average audience member is prone to fall asleep. >> spate  (SPAYT) n. an unusually large outpouring, usually one of words

Tigers lions and leopards are three different species of felines./ Dogs and cats belong to two totally different species./ The human species is growing at an alarming rate. >> species  (SPEE sheez) n. 1. a distinct kind; variety; class; 2. (biology) a naturally existing population of organisms that can only breed among themselves; 3. the human race

Last week Mark lost his timepiece—his wristwatch to be specific./ Bill knew his appointment was between 6 and 7 P.M. but he was not certain of the specific time./ Fran was looking for a folding umbrella with a very specific checkerboard pattern. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. explicit special] >> specific  (spi SIF ik) adj. 1. specifying a precise, limited thing or group of things, characteristics, etc.; 2. of a particular sort or type

Greg’s conclusion seemed to be logical but in reality his thinking was somewhat specious./ It was her neglecting to account for the difference in time zones that made Laura’s calculated arrival time specious. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. plausible] >> specious  (SPEE shis) adj. seeming to be correct, without really being so; plausi- ble, but not actual

The dog balancing on the beach ball was a spectacle to behold./ The parade of the circus performers and animals from the train station to the arena was a spectacle worth coming out to watch./ Willa bought a new pair of spectacles. >> spectacle  (SPEK ti kl) n. 1. a strange and/or remarkable sight; 2. a public exhibi- tion on a grand scale —pl. a pair of eyeglasses

Whether or not your parents are going to allow you to go away for the weekend is purely a matter of speculation./ Day traders are engaged in stock price speculation and more lose money than gain any. >> speculation  (SPEK yoo LAY shin) n. 1. the act of thinking about; meditation; 2. gambling in stock or land values

In a pigtail splice the bare ends of two wires are twisted together and then hot solder is applied. / A Western Union splice is the most elegant as well as the strongest wire splice. / A square knot is a very effective way to splice two ropes together. /[-d splicing] [Syn. join] >> splice  (SPLYS) vt. to join pieces together by weaving or intertwining (as with ropes, wires, and so on)

By definition spontaneity is incapable of being planned. / Spontaneity must come from within oneself and some people have it while others are afraid of it. >> spontaneity  (SPAHN ti NEE i tee) n. 1. acting spontaneously; 2. doing things on the spur of the moment without external incitement; acting with self-motivation

Alice’s decision to follow the white rabbit was a spontaneous one./ People used to think that maggots appeared on dead bodies by spontaneous generation./ At the pianist’s first appearance the audience erupted in spontaneous applause. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. instinctive impulsive] >> spontaneous  (spahn TAY nee uhs) adj. 1. all at once, without advance prepara- tion or premeditation; 2. without apparent outside cause or influence

The note asking Linda’s teacher to excuse her not having her homework turned out to be spurious and was written in Linda’s poorly disguised handwriting. / The bargain diamond ring turned out to be spurious made not of diamond and gold but of glass and gold plate. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. artificial] >> spurious  (SPYUR ee uhs) adj. 1. false; make-believe; not genuine; 2. similar in appearance, but not in structure

Norma squandered her money on a CD because she could not wait two days for it to go on sale. / Jimmy Carter’s administration refused to squander billions of dollars on the B-1 bomber program. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. waste] >> squander  (SKWAHN doer) vt. to waste; to spend or use wastefully

Peter tried to squelch the invasion of cockroaches by stomping all over them./ Dictators often try to squelch opposition by making massive reprisals after a slight insurrection./ Suzanne squelched a pile of potatoes for tomorrow morning’s hash browns./ Her boots went “squelch” as she slogged through the mud. /[-ed -ing -er n.] >> squelch  (SKWELCH) vt. 1. to crush or squash by smashing or stamping on; 2. to suppress or silence fully with a demoralizing effect —n. 1. a crushed mass of some- thing; 2. the act of silencing or putting down; 3. the sound made by walking through mud or slush

The leadership of most dictatorships tends to be static because the leader rarely changes. / Static electricity is so named because it does not travel in currents. / Lightning is a giant discharge of static electricity between two clouds or between a cloud and the earth. / Static is an annoyance of AM radio broadcasts but is absent from FM radio. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. stationary] >> static  (STA tik) adj. 1. at rest; not moving; stationary; 2. the opposite of dynamic —n. 1. an electrical discharge; 2. the noise produced by an electrical discharge

Damming the river was an attempt at stemming its repeated flooding of the town./ The little Dutch boy’s thumb was stuck into the dike in hopes of stemming the hole’s enlargement by the water eroding it further./ Stemming strawberries before serving them is always a good idea. >> stemming  (STEM ing) vt. 1. stopping or checking (especially the flow of a river by damming); 2. closing, plugging, or tamping a hole; 3. removing the stem from a vegetable or piece of fruit

Many people can’t start the day without a cup of coffee which acts as a stimulant to get them up and running./ Caffeine the stimulant in coffee is also in tea cola and other soft drinks. >> stimulant  (STIM yoo lint) n. any drug, medication, experience, sight, etc. that temporarily stimulates or excites some organ or the central nervous system to increase activity

Mosquito bites are stimuli for scratching (though you shouldn’t). / Special receptors in the nose are affected by the stimuli of odors and cause impulses to be sent to the brain. / Reactions are triggered by stimuli. /[stimulus sing.] [Syn. incentives] >> stimuli  (STIM yoo ly) n. the plural of stimulus; things that incite or cause reactions; incentives

Gregory’s stint was that of a parachute packer. / Buddy spent an 18-month stint on an army base in Alaska. >> stint  (STINT) n. 1 an assigned task or job; 2. an amount of time spent at a certain task

Western frontier forts seen in the movies are stockades. / A stockade is also a structure that used to detain prisoners. / The stockade fences of today are not actually stockades because only occa- sional posts are driven into the ground. >> stockade  (stah KAYD) n. 1. a barricade or fence, made up of vertical stakes driv- en into the ground, for the purpose of protection; 2. a fort enclosed in similar walls

A stolid expression is essential to being a successful poker player. / One who is stolid all the time is very little fun to be around. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. impassive] >> stolid  (STAHL id) adj. showing little or no emotional reaction; impassive

Tom turned the chair around and straddled it while leaning his chin on the chair’s back./ It is customary to straddle the saddle when seated on a horse./ Politicians often find that they risk alienating fewer constituents by strad- dling an issue rather than coming down on one side or the other of it./ Severely bowlegged people walk with a straddle as if they had a saddle between their legs./ It doesn’t pay to straddle the question of whether or not to allow the state to infringe on your freedoms./ Straddling is a favorite occupation of many politicians known as fence sitters. /[-d straddling] >> straddle  (STRA dil) vt. 1. to have one’s legs on either side of (a chair, saddle, fence, etc.); 2. to come down on both sides of an issue; to avoid or appear to avoid committing oneself; 3. to walk with one’s legs wide apart; 4. to refuse to commit oneself; hedge —n. the act or position of straddling

Perry found that the best way to tackle a problem is the straightforward one/ that is attack it head on./ It is best to be straightforward in our relationships with others as that encourages them to be the same way with us./ Rose has found that when she needs something done the more straightfor- ward she is in her instructions the more likely it is that the job will be done the way she wants it. >> straightforward  (STRAYT FAWR woerd) adj. 1. direct; moving straight ahead; 2. frank; honest; open; 3. clear; unambiguous

How to behave in a certain situation is usually a very subjective decision meaning that no two people would act quite the same./ Subjective reactions are normally the product of one’s total life experiences. /[-ly adv.] >> subjective  (suhb JEK tiv) adj. governed by what is in one’s mind, rather than by reality; not objective; personal; introspective

Subliminal suggestions repeated over and over again have long been thought to change someone’s overt behavior. / One of the most insidious uses of such messages is in subliminal advertis- ing where one’s unconscious is deliberately bombarded in an effort to make that person buy a certain product. /[-ly adv.] >> subliminal  (suhb LIM in il) adj. beneath the level of consciousness, especially suggestions to the unconscious meant to evoke or teach certain behavior

A substantive quantity is the same as a substantial quantity. / For a matter to be substantive it must be actual rather than theoretical for example an error of commission rather than one of omission. / A person who has invested money in a company has a substantive interest in the success of that organization. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. actual] >> substantive  (SUB stin tiv or sub STAN tiv) adj. 1. considerable in amount or quantity; 2. having real existence; actual; 3. of or relating to legal rights, as distin- guished from procedural matters

No law is required to allow you the freedom to speak in a public park because that is subsumed by the First Amendment to the Constitution. / If the Pennsylvania state legislature tried to pass a capital punishment law instituting drawing and quartering any opposing legislator could prove that such a law is subsumed by the Constitution’s prohibition of cruel or unusual punishment. /[-d subsuming] >> subsume  (suhb SOOM) vt. 1. to include within a larger group or class; 2. to demonstrate or show that something is covered by an existing rule or law

Subtlety is the difference between clucking your tongue at a child’s misbe- havior and hitting him or her over the head with a sledgehammer./ Subtlety is an acquired skill brought about by watching the behavior of your role models over the course of time. /[subtleties pl. subtleness n. subtle adj. subtly adv.] >> subtlety  (SUHT il tee) n. 1. the ability or tendency to be able to make fine dis- tinctions; 2. the quality or condition of being delicately skillful or clever

By reacting to a child’s appeal to override the decision of her father a mother subverts the father’s authority./ The Persian emperor’s rule was subverted by Alexander the Great’s invasion when the emperor’s own men killed him. >> subvert  (suhb VOERT) vt. 1. to undermine or corrupt; 2. to overthrow an estab- lished power by indirect means

Don’t try to sully my reputation as a legitimate trader of riding and draught horses./ To sully someone’s name as an honest businessperson is to ruin their ability to earn a living. /[sullied -ing] >> sully  (SUH lee) vt. soil; stain; tarnish or besmirch, especially by disgracing

The libel case was dismissed by the court summarily. / Randy summarily jumped to the conclusion that his brother had damaged his car. /[summary adj.] [Syn. expeditiously] >> summarily  (suh MER i lee) adv. 1. promptly and without formality; expeditious; 2. hastily and arbitrarily

Jackie’s wounds from her skateboard accident were only superficial thanks to her having worn protective gear./ Frank was only interested in superficial looks and paid no attention to the inner substance of his dates./ Barry learned from a terrible experience that the next time he signs a con- tract he had better take more than a superficial look at it first./ The president’s analysis of the economy was at best superficial. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. shallow cursory] >> superficial  (soo pir FISH il) adj. 1. limited to the surface; 2. concerned with the obvious only; 3. cursory and quick; 4. shallow; not profound

Many striking photographic images have been obtained by superimposing two or more different images. / It is a mistake to superimpose your moral code on somebody else. /[-d superimposing] >> superimpose  (SOO poer im POHZ) vt. to place or lay one thing on top of something else; stack; overlay

Instructions for operating a light switch dated 03/09/04 are to supplant those of 02/18/56 until further notice./ The white rhododendron in the tub will be used to supplant the purple rhododendron next to the driveway. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. replace] >> supplant  (suh PLANT) vt. 1. to replace; supersede; 2. to uproot and replace

The Chinese government’s tanks suppressed the protest in Tiananmen Square./ The plan of the rock group to appear onstage was suppressed by the theater’s owners who feared a riot./ When Diane saw the kindergartener take a melted ice-cream bar from her pocket after getting off the school bus she suppressed her urge to laugh. /[-ed -ing] >> suppress  (suh PRES) vt. 1. to subdue; put down; quell; crush; 2. to keep from appearing; 3. to check or stop; keep back; restrain

Each year American farmers produce a surfeit of wheat./ Brad had to loosen his belt having eaten a surfeit of shrimp from the appetizer platters at Rose’s wedding./ Ian felt surfeit from having drunk too many beers on an otherwise empty stomach./ The wedding feast surfeited every one of the 103 guests. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. satiate] >> surfeit  (SOER fit) n. 1. excess; too great a supply; 2. pigging out; 3. nausea or discomfort resulting from overindulgence —vt. to feed or supply to fullness or excess; to satiate

The guests to Joanne’s birthday celebration all received surreptitious invita- tions so as not to spoil the surprise./ The concealment of the Greek soldiers inside the Trojan horse had to be surreptitious so the Trojans would not suspect anything./ For those of you planning a prison break it is a good idea to keep your plans surreptitious (wink wink!). /[-ly adv.] [Syn. secret clandestine] >> surreptitious  (SOER ep TISH is) adj. 1. clandestine; done in a secret or stealthy way; 2. acting in a secret or stealthy way

Some children are very susceptible to ear infections./ Most men are susceptible to the appeal of a teary-eyed woman./ Some people who might not give you the time of day are still susceptible to an appeal to their better natures. /[susceptibly adv. susceptibility* n.] >> susceptible  (suh SEP ti bl) adj. easily affected or emotionally moved; sensitive in nature; easily influenced

The right pedal on a piano is used to sustain a note long after the key has been released./ It takes a lot of puppy chow to sustain a growing St. Bernard puppy. / When two people transport a piano up a hill on a dolly the person in the rear sustains the bulk of the weight./ The audience’s reaction to Sybil’s recital was enough to sustain her in pursuing her musical career. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. prolong support] >> sustain  (sus TAYN) vt. 1. to keep up; maintain; prolong; 2. to provide food and sustenance to; 3. to carry the weight and/or burden of; 4. to encourage

It is never out of style to be sympathetic to another person’s loss. / Mary was sympathetic toward Joseph’s love of red cars. / Tom’s parents were sympathetic to his desire to continue his education in graduate school. /[-ally adv.] [Syn. tender congenial] >> sympathetic  (SIM puh THET ik) adj. 1. of, showing, feeling, or expressing sym- pathy; 2. in agreement with one’s feelings, tastes, and so on; congenial; 3. showing favor, agreement, or approval

A well-harmonized quartet produces a symphony of sounds to be enjoyed by all./ Van Gogh’s Sunflowers is a symphony of ochres and shades of yellow./ The opening four chords of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony might be the most recognizable four chords of all time. >> symphony  (SIM fi nee) n. 1. harmony of sounds, especially of musical instru- ments; 2. harmony of colors; 3. something noted for harmonious composition; 4. an extensive composition of many parts for a full orchestra

Lifting a heavy object without injuring oneself requires a synergistic work- ing of muscles in the back arms and legs./ The Department of Homeland Security was a synergistic effort to create a more effective agency than the separate agencies that comprised it. /[-ally adv.] >> synergistic  (SIN oer JIS tik) adj. the simultaneous working together of several organs or agencies

For many years but no longer the word “Volkswagen” was synonymous with inexpensive economical transportation./ Cliff’sQuickReviews are synonymous with study guides./ Aspirin which for many years was synonymous with painkiller was origi- nally a brand name of the Bayer company. /[-ly adv.] >> synonymous  (sin AHN im is) adj. equivalent or similar in meaning; having the nature of a synonym; being another word or name for

A chemist can synthesize salt from sodium and chlorine./ An electronic instrument can synthesize different timbres and frequencies to simulate the sounds made by real musical instruments. /[-d synthesizing] >> synthesize  (SIN the SYZ) vt. to put together different parts to form a whole; to assemble

Morticia went to séances to attempt to communicate with her dead uncle Fester./ After Morticia’s sixth unsuccessful try at contacting Uncle Fester at a séance it became clear that he was not going to say “Boo!” to her. >> séance  (SAY ahns) n. a meeting at which a medium or psychic attempts to communicate with the dead

Tacit reasons are not tangible reasons and vice versa. / A second baseman and a shortstop have a tacit understanding of who is to cover second base in case of a ground ball. / It is illegal for a politician to accept money in exchange for a political favor but it’s hard to prove guilt when the agreement is tacit. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. implied] >> tacit  (TA sit) adj. 1. implied; unspoken; 2. not expressed openly, but understood

In many primitive and not-so-primitive cultures talismans are worn to ward off evil spirits./ Many educated persons have been known to carry a rabbit’s foot as a talisman despite the fact that it obviously did not bring much luck to the rabbit. /[-s pl.] >> talisman  (TAL is min) n. 1. something (like a ring, necklace, or bracelet) bear- ing symbols or engraved figures thought to bring good luck; 2. anything thought to have magic power; something to ward off evil; an amulet

The school superintendent started talking about the school budget but soon went off on the tangential subject of the breakfast program./ While examining the world news section of the newspaper Sandy took a tangential glance at the baseball scores. /[-ly adv.] >> tangential  (tan JEN shil) adj. 1. diverging or digressing; going off at an angle, like a tangent; 2. just touching on a subject, but not dealing with it at length

Anything that one can touch is tangible. / One’s tangible assets are those whose value can be stated. / If someone is talking but not really saying anything there is no tangible reason to listen. /[tangibly adv.] [Syn. perceptible] >> tangible  (TAN ji buhl) adj. 1. that can be touched; 2. real and able to be valued; perceptible; 3. capable of being understood

Silver tarnishes in air and always looks dull if left unpolished. / Tarnishing someone’s character without valid reason constitutes the crime of libel. / Polishing metal removes tarnish from it. /[-ed -ing] >> tarnish  (TAHR nish) vt. 1. to dull the lustre of a metal surface; 2. to besmirch someone’s character —n. 1. the dullness or oxidation of metal; discoloration; 2. a blemish; a stain

Taxonomy was first developed by Carolus Linnaeus a Swedish botanist of the eighteenth century. / Linnaeus’s taxonomy shows humans as genus Homo and species sapiens/ hence all humans are Homo sapiens. /[taxonomic adj. taxonomically adv.] >> taxonomy  (tak SAH nuh mee) n. the science of classifying plants and animals by their likenesses to one another, beginning with the most general relationships and getting more and more specific (The classifications, in order, are kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species.)

Mark was shocked that only a week into skiing lessons Allison had the temerity to tackle the giant slalom./ Nobody believed that North Vietnam would have the temerity to attack South Vietnam while it was under American protection but we all know how that turned out. >> temerity  (tim ER it ee) n. audacity; recklessness; foolhardiness

Collies usually have a very even temperament and are very good at herding children who try to stray./ A Jack Russell terrier’s temperament on the other hand is frenetic or (as some might say) hyper and it is in perpetual motion. /[Syn. disposition] >> temperament  (TEM per mint) n. 1. one’s usual state of mind or disposition; nature; natural disposition; 2. excitability; moodiness; capriciousness; volatility

It is a good idea to exercise temperance in the amount of fried foods that one eats in a week./ The temperance movement was responsible for the U.S. Prohibition era of the 1930s. tenacious (ten AY shis) adj. 1. holding on firmly/ retaining well/ retentive/ 2. persistent/ stubborn / The British are known for being a very tenacious people which is why they embrace the bulldog as their national mascot./ When he fell over the cliff Carl held on to the tree root with a tenacious grip until rescuers could reach him. /[-ly adv. tenacity n.] [Syn. persistent] >> temperance  (TEM pir INS) n. 1. self-restraint; moderation in appetite, expres- sion, indulgence, and so on; 2. totally refraining from drinking alcoholic beverages

Things set in motion have a tendency to remain in motion until interfered with by an outside force./ An object at rest has a tendency to remain at rest until acted upon by an outside force./ Isaac Newton’s tendency was to state things as laws such as the two laws of inertia stated above./ The tendency of the American people during the 1980s and 1990s was to move politically toward the right. /[Syn. drift trend] >> tendency  (TEN din see) n. 1. an inclination, bent, or propensity to move in a certain direction; 2. an apparent moving toward some particular purpose; drift; 3. a purpose or point of view

The tentative time for our next meeting is Tuesday at 7 P.M. but check back before putting it on your calendar./ Joanne wanted to ask Arthur to the dance but her approach to him was at best tentative. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] [Syn. uncertain] >> tentative  (TEN tuh TIV lee) adj. 1. proposed, but not definite; uncertain; 2. timid; hesitant

The challenger’s lead in the polls is at best tenuous./ Nora had a tenuous grip on her tennis racket and it was at risk of flying out of her hand with each swing. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> tenuous  (TEN yoo is) adj. not substantial; flimsy; inconclusive

The arresting officer gave testimony at the burglary trial./ The general’s testimony before Congress was that the army was fully prepared./ Lynn’s testimony was given in a letter signed before a notary public. >> testimony  (TES to MOH nee) n. 1. a declaration or statement made under oath, sometimes in response to questioning, before a court of some sort; 2. a public affir- mation; any kind of evidence; 3. any sworn statement

Tetherball is played using a ball attached to a stake by a tether./ It is not unusual to find a dog tethered to a lamppost while its owner is in the grocery store./ Never tether your dog for any length of time in the presence of hot sun- light with no recourse to shade and fresh water. /[-ed -ing] >> tether  (TE thir) n. a rope or cord fastened to something to prevent its escape -vt. to tie up or confine something/someone using a tether

Einstein had a theoretical view of the relationship between energy and mass./ Air travel was purely theoretical until the beginning of the twentieth century./ The existence of life in other galaxies is purely theoretical. /[-ly adv.] >> theoretical  (THEE uh RET i kil) adj. 1. of or making up an idea or mental con- cept; 2. limited to theory, but not practical or proven; 3. speculative

Walking is considered to be therapeutic for a sore leg but how that can be beats me./ Professionals disagree over whether an ice pack or a heat pack is more therapeutic for a sore back. /[-al adj. -ly adv.] >> therapeutic  (THE ri PYOO tik) adj. working to heal or cure; curative

The thesis of Wilma’s argument was that brontosaurus burgers were health- ier than tyrannosaurus burgers. / Bart selected as the topic for his thesis the proposition that babies drink more milk than grownups because they don’t know any better. / It is an underlying thesis of geometry that a line is infinite in length. /[theses pl.] >> thesis  (THEE sis) n. 1. a proposition to be argued or defended; 2. a formal and lengthy research paper, usually for a graduate degree; 3. an unproven premise assumed to be true

Yolanda gave a thorough accounting of her encounter with the hijacker taking care to omit no detail./ The doctor gave Edwin a thorough examination including an electrocardiogram./ The counterfeiter did a thorough job of copying the design for the $50 bill. /[-ly adv.] >> thorough  (THOER oh) adj. 1. complete; omitting nothing; 2. absolute; very exact; accurate; 3. paying careful attention to details

The happy throng gathered for New Year’s Eve in Times Square./ A throng of fruit flies massed around the cut peach looking to grab a tasty meal./ The passengers thronged together hoping to get a seat on the next bus. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. crowd] >> throng  (THRAHNG) n. 1. a great number of people gathered together; a crowd; 2. a mass of things; multitude —vt. to crowd together

When Vicki found that her new MP-3 player didn’t work she had a tiff. / Fred and Ethel had a tiff over where they should go on their vacation. /[Syn. spat] >> tiff  (TIF) n. 1 a slight fit of ill humor; a huff; 2. a petty argument or fight; spat

The most memorable use of the word timorous in English literature is in Robert Burns’s To a Mouse where he refers to it as a “wee timorous beastie.”/ It is quite fine for children to be timorous about talking to strangers. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. afraid] >> timorous  (TIM er is) adj. 1. full of fear; subject to fear; timid; 2. caused by timidity

Julie’s parents would not tolerate her playing after school until her home- work was done./ Though not a believer in the curative powers of chicken soup Hal tolerated a well-meant bowl or two when he was laid up with the flu./ Karen tolerated her in-laws’ presence at family gatherings although she really would have preferred not to see them. /[-d tolerating] [Syn. bear] >> tolerate  (TAH ler AYT) vt. 1. to allow; permit; 2. to respect the beliefs of others, although they differ from one’s own; 3. to put up with things or persons who are disliked

You know Professor Corey/ he’s the one who wrote the thick tome on the eating preferences of different species of termites./ The writings of J. D. Salinger are not really lengthy enough to call tomes while Leo Tolstoy’s works are a different story. >> tome  (TOHM) n. a book, especially a large, ponderous, and/or scholarly one

A bear while torpid after just having awakened from hibernation soon after becomes much livelier./ A sloth on the other hand is always torpid./ Certain members of my family have a tendency to be torpid upon the com- pletion of a Thanksgiving feast. /[-ly adv. -ity torpor n.] >> torpid  (TAWR pid) adj. 1. temporarily having lost all sensation and the ability to move (like a hibernating animal); sluggish; 2. slow and dull; apathetic

After 24 hours of sleeplessness torpor is likely to set in. / Torpor is characteristic among those who spent hours before their TVs in the old days watching the political conventions from gavel to gavel. /[Syn. stupor] >> torpor  (TAWR puhr) n. 1. a condition of dormancy; sluggishness; temporary (either partial or total) loss of sensation or motion; stupor; 2. dullness or apathy

The most commonly seen tourniquet among campers is made by tying together two ends of a cloth square slipping it over a limb and then twist- ing a stick through the loop to put pressure on the limb./ A tourniquet is an emergency bandage to prevent excessive loss of blood by a cut trauma subject. >> tourniquet  (TOER ni kit) n. a pressure bandage whose purpose is to temporari- ly clamp off the flow of blood through a part of the body

A horse is most tractable when it is younger than two years of age./ Silver is a very tractable metal but not as much so as copper. /[tractability* n.] [Syn. obedient] >> tractable  (TRAK ti bl) adj. 1. easily managed, controlled, or taught; docile; compliant; 2. easily workable; malleable

The story of the Trojan War had been Greek tradition for hundreds of years before Homer wrote it down in The Iliad./ Tradition was often entrusted to minstrels who were singing storytellers and entertainers./ The Thanksgiving turkey dinner is an American tradition./ Bushido is the Japanese tradition of behavior passed down by the samurai warriors. >> tradition  (truh DISH in) n. 1. a custom, belief, proverb, or story handed down orally from generation to generation; 2. the act of handing down same; 3. long established practices; precedent; 4. a historic line of principles, attitudes, or codes of behavior

A palamino horse is distinguishable from all others by the trait of its golden skin color./ Nose shape is a trait that differs less among people than among dogs./ Honesty is a desirable trait often lacking in used-car salespersons. /[Syn. quality] >> trait  (TRAYT) n. 1 a distinguishing characteristic or quality; 2. character; 3. a quality of personality

The tranquil countryside has been the backdrop to many a violent novel. / The ocean may be violent on a stormy day but tranquil on a calm one. / Try to maintain a tranquil attitude and you’ll have far less heartburn. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. calm] >> tranquil  (TRAN kwil) adj. 1. peaceful; serene; calm; free from agitation; 2. quiet and motionless

A pastoral scene is one noted for its apparent tranquillity./ Of course the artist never portrays the cougar waiting behind the rock to disrupt the tranquillity of the grazing flock. >> tranquillity  (tran KWIL i tee) n. the quality or state of peacefulness; calmness; serenity

Running a stop sign is a transgression of traffic law. / A sin is a transgression against God. / Eating pork is a transgression in some religions but perfectly acceptable in others. /[-ed -ing -ion n.] [Syn. sin] >> transgress  (trans GRES) vt. 1. to overstep one’s bounds; 2. to violate the law —vi. to sin

Don’t worry your in-laws’ visit is a transient one./ Weather in Texas is very transient/ if you don’t care for it at the moment just wait five minutes./ Motels rent their rooms mostly to transients. /[-ly adv. transience n.] >> transient  (TRAN see int) adj. 1. temporary; passing with time; 2. passing in a short time; fleeting —n. 1. a transient person; 2. a brief electrical surge

The transmutation of uranium into plutonium is a by-product of some nuclear reactors. / We now know through modern chemistry that the transmutation of lead into gold is impossible. / A caterpillar’s transmutation into a butterfly is known as “metamorphosis.” /[Syn. transformation] >> transmutation  (TRANS myoo TAY shin) n. 1. a changing of one thing into another; 2. (medieval) a changing of lead into gold (believed possible then) by alchemy; 3. (chemistry) a changing of one element into an isotope of itself or another by nuclear bombardment or by decay, for example, changing U239 into U235 or uranium into plutonium

“I wouldn’t want to call you transparent” Mabel told Todd “but I can see your car right behind your belly.”/ Will’s directions to Doris’s place were transparent./ When a child admires a particular toy in the store his or her motives are usualy transparent. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. clear] >> transparent  (trans PAR int) adj. 1. capable of being seen through; passing light through so as to be able to distinctly see what is on the other side; neither translu- cent nor opaque; 2. easily understood; very clear; obvious; 3. frank; without guile

Any cut can be called a trauma but it is the more severe ones that get immediate attention in the emergency room of a hospital./ Scalding with nearly boiling hot water is one of the most painful forms of physical trauma. /[-tic adj. -tically adv.] >> trauma  (TROW muh or TRAW muh) n. 1. a bodily shock, wound, or injury; 2. a mental shock or painful emotional experience

Political cartoonists love to make a travesty of politicians by emphasizing some facial characteristic to a ridiculous extreme./ A travesty was made of Richard Nixon’s jowls for instance./ Teddy Roosevelt was often portrayed with a monacle a cigar and a grotesque shotgun and/or riding crop making a travesty of his avocations./ The pop diva’s remake of a popular 1960s ballad was considered a travesty by those who knew and loved the original song. /[Syn. caricature] >> travesty  (TRA vis tee) n. 1. a burlesque or grotesque imitation for purposes of ridicule; 2. a crude, distorted, absurd representation of something

Benedict Arnold was known for his treachery in delivering the plans of West Point to the redcoats./ Less well known in the United States is the treachery of Vidkund Quisling whose so-called Fifth Column led to the taking of Norway by Nazi Germany. >> treachery  (TRECH ir ee) n. 1. a betrayal of trust or faith; treason; 2. an act of disloyalty or treason; perfidy

Maricella’s tremulous hand made brain surgery an unsuitable occupation for her./ A good singer often has a tremulous voice on a sustained note known as “tremolo”/ bad singers let this tremulousness get out of hand. / It is appropriate to be tremulous when unarmed and face to face with an uncaged 600 lb. Siberian tiger. /[-ly adv. -ness n.] >> tremulous  (TREM yoo lis) adj. 1. trembling or quivering; 2. marked by trem- bling or shaking; 3. timid; fearful; timorous

Tritium oxide is often referred to as “heavy water.” / Molecules of tritium are created by bombarding hydrogen atoms with pro- tons in a particle accelerator. >> tritium  (TRI tee uhm) n. an isotope of hydrogen with atomic weight 3 and a 12.5-year half-life, used in thermonuclear bombs

It is easy for an adult to trivialize the fears of a child and by so doing to traumatize him or her./ A good teacher will not trivialize the questions of students. /[-d* trivializing trivialization n.] >> trivialize  (TRI vee uh lyz) vt. 1. to regard or treat as unimportant or insignifi- cant; 2. to make seem unimportant

Genghis Khan took a truculent attitude toward nearly everyone but his wife Sylvia./ The North Koreans have been truculent toward those in the South since shortly after World War II. /[-ly adv. truculence n.] >> truculent  (TRUHK yoo lint) adj. 1. cruel; fierce; savage; 2. rude; mean; 3. belli- cose; warlike; pugnacious

A trustee is often appointed by a bankruptcy court to manage the appli- cant’s financial affairs./ The United Kingdom was made trustee over much of the former territory of the Ottoman Empire after World War I./ Many major instutions’ financial affairs are in the hands of a board of trustees. >> trustee  (TRUS tee) n. 1. a person entrusted with the management of someone else’s property or money; 2. a country in charge of administering a trust territory; 3. a group of persons or a board appointed to manage the affairs of an institution

The floor of the New York Stock Exchange always appears to be in a state of turmoil./ The police do their best to control the turmoil as the crowd leaves the race- track at the end of the Indianapolis 500./ Fear and turmoil gripped the passengers and crew of the Titanic in their attempt to leave the stricken ship. >> turmoil  (TOER moyl) n. uproar; confusion; disarray; tumult; commotion

One of the approved reasons for removing a public official from office is moral turpitude./ The turpitude of Adolph Hitler is without parallel in modern times. >> turpitude  (TOER pi TOOD) n. 1. depravity or vileness; baseness; 2. any instance of the foregoing

The first so-called tyrannies took place in ancient Greece and tyranny comes from the Greek word tyrant./ Any modern-day dictatorship is a tyranny./ The Reign of Terror which followed the French Revolution was not a tyranny in the first sense of the word but was one in the third sense. /[tyrannies pl.] >> tyranny  (TIR uh nee) n. 1. the government of an absolute ruler; 2. oppressive government; unjust government; 3. cruel and unjust use of authority; harshness; severity; despotism

Those just learning to play the game of golf are referred to as tyros. / One can be experienced at something and still do it like a tyro. /[Syn. amateur] >> tyro  (TY roh) n. a beginner at learning to do something

When Carol tried to get Gerald’s address she found it to be unavailable./ The senator from Arizona was unavailable to run as the candidate for vice president. /[unavailably adv.] >> unavailable  (UHN uh VAY li bl) adj. 1. that which cannot be obtained or had; unreachable; 2. not willing to attend or serve (in a position)

When the car began to skid hitting the lamppost was unavoidable./ After the summons had been issued by the officer the need to respond to it was unavoidable. /[unavoidably adv.] >> unavoidable  (UHN uh VOY di bl) adj. 1. something that can’t be avoided; inevitable; 2. that cannot be nullified or voided

The appraiser underestimated the value of the painting in Diane’s living room./ Victor’s conception of how much study time was needed before taking his finals proved to be an underestimate. /[-d underestimating] >> underestimate  (UHN doer ES ti mayt) vt. to undervalue something; set an esti- mate that is too low —n. too low an evaluation of something’s worth

The prisoners undermined the wall in an attempt to escape./ The bridge’s supports had been undermined by the rushing waters of the river below it./ The authority of the government was undermined by the actions of the guerrilla forces. /[-d undermining*] [Syn. weaken] >> undermine  (UHN der myn) vt. 1. to dig beneath; tunnel; mine; 2. to wear away and weaken the supports of something; 3. to weaken or impair, especially by stealthy or underhanded means

Using television as a babysitter might have an undesirable effect on the children’s education./ Speaking loudly in a library is considered undesirable behavior./ Vagrants are often treated by society as undesirables. /[undesirably adv.] >> undesirable  (UHN diz YR i bl) adj. not desirable or pleasing; objectionable —n. an undesirable person

Martha’s disbelief at being found guilty was unfeigned. / Harold’s unfeigned vision problems were questioned by the Selective Service Board. / Mary’s excuse that the dog ate her homework was unfeigned despite her having deliberately spilled beef gravy on it. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. real] >> unfeigned  (uhn FAYND) adj. not feigned; not made up; genuine; actual; real

The coach needs to be unfettered so that she can experiment with using different players at different positions./ Unfetter the dog so that he may run about the yard. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. liberate] >> unfetter  (uhn FET ir) vt. to free from restraints of any kind; to liberate

The circus’s arrival in town was completely unheralded./ The president made an unheralded trip to the front. >> unheralded  (uhn HER ild id) adj. uncelebrated in advance; unforetold; not pre- announced; unpredicted

Air is universal where humans are able to live./ The Constitution’s framers believed in a universal right to freedom of speech./ A hammer is one of the few tools that have universal applications. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. general generic] >> universal  (YOO ni VER sil) adj. 1. present or occurring everywhere; 2. not limit- ed or restricted; 3. highly adaptable; usable for many different purposes

The quality of Geoffrey’s cinematography is unparalleled in the history of filmmaking./ Picasso had a grasp of shape relationships that is unparalleled in the known art world. >> unparalleled  (uhn PA ruh leld) adj. unequaled; unmatched; that has no parallel

The difficulties Ralph and Edna had in understanding one another were unresolved by their having a child./ The chemical composition of the compound remained unresolved even after analysis by spectrograph. >> unresolved  (UHN riz AHLVD) adj. unsettled; undetermined; unexplained; unanalyzed

The shock that Sarah felt was unutterable./ Jack found the words needed to describe the horror he felt upon hearing of the fire were unutterable. /[unutterably adv.] >> unutterable  (uhn UH tir uh bl) adj. that can’t be described or expressed; inexpressible

The country club caters to the longtime aristocracy and its board has always voted to keep upstarts out./ The upstart was reprimanded when he tried to cut into the front of the line. >> upstart  (UHP stahrt) n. 1. a person who has recently become wealthy, and so is presumptuous or aggressive; 2. one who does not know his/her proper place

The area had only recently become urbanized having been mostly farms less than a generation ago./ The influx of industry was largely responsible for the urbanized character of Allentown. >> urbanized  (OER bin YZD) adj. changed from countrylike to citylike in charac- ter; citified

Jeannie urged Horace to change his mind and visit the zoo./ Philip of Macedon urges his son Alexander to go to medical school so that he can become a doctor./ The rabble-rousers urged the crowd to take arms against the government. /[-d urging] [Syn. press exhort] >> urge  (OERJ) vt. 1 to plead, allege, strongly advocate; 2. strongly recommend; compel; 3. to incite or provoke

Usury is prohibited by law. / The interest rates that some credit card companies charge is akin to usury. /[usurious adj. usuriously adv.] >> usury  (YOO zhuh ree) n. 1. the lending of money at an excessive or illegally high rate of interest; 2. a high rate of interest

Utopia was the name Sir Thomas More gave to his imaginary island./ Many believe that Tahiti is as close as one can come to a utopia in real life/ others would select Hawaii. /[utopian adj.] >> Utopia  (yoo TOH pee uh) n. 1. an imaginary island from a book of the same name by Sir Thomas More, 1516; 2. any idealized place; symbol of perfection; paradise

Before Jonas Salk discovered his vaccine polio was the greatest fear of mothers of young children./ Medical researchers are now seeking a vaccine for cancer. >> vaccine  (VAK seen) n. a preparation placed into the body to prevent or lessen the effects of a specific infection; disease preventitive; innoculation

It is not unusual for one’s position on an issue to vacillate as more and better information becomes available. / Homer and Marge often vacillate on where to go for their summer vacation. /[-d vacillating vacillation n.] [Syn. fluctuate] >> vacillate  (VAS i LAYT) vt. 1. to waver; to sway back and forth; to fluctuate or oscillate; 2. to waver in attitude; show indecision

Vagrants may often be found sleeping on park benches in some of our larger cities. / In some communities being a vagrant is considered to be a misdemeanor. / “Beachcomber” is a classy description for one living a vagrant existence. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. tramp] >> vagrant  (VAY grint) n. a person who wanders around without a regular job, supporting him or herself by begging —adj. living the life of a vagabond; roaming; nomadic

To drive one must have a valid driver’s license./ Alternate side of the street parking is valid in New York City except on legal holidays./ No matter how many times something is tried and works it cannot be proven to be a natural law yet one case of failure is enough to prove it not valid. valorous (VAL er uhs) adj. having or showing courage/ bravery/ being strong / Soldiers and sailors are decorated for exhibiting valorous behavior./ The code of chivalry implied an expectation of valorous behavior on the part of medieval knights. >> valid  (VAL id) adj. 1. having legal status; binding under the law; 2. legitimate; in force; effective; 3. capable of withstanding criticism or examination

In times of war it is the object of armed forces to vanquish the foe./ In chess it is customary for the vanquished player to concede by upending his or her king. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. conquer] >> vanquish  (VAN kwish) vt. 1. to beat; to defeat in battle; 2. to force into submission

America is unique because of the varied cultures of its inhabitants./ Clothing designs are varied in shape size and shade./ Having put on 20 pounds since he bought his suit Bob thought it advis- able to have its size varied by a tailor. /[-ly adv.] >> varied  (VA reed) adj. 1. of different kinds; diverse; 2. of different colors; varie- gated; 3. altered; changed

A variety of fresh fruits and vegetables are in season during the summer months./ Breakfast can be made more interesting by eating a variety of cereals rather than eating the same one every day./ A variety show offers an assortment of entertainment. >> variety  (vuh RY it ee) adj. 1. the state of being diverse; having many choices; 2. a different form or condition from the usual; 3. many different things taken together (like a variety show)

Varnish may be diluted with turpentine./ Using coasters on varnish helps to prevent its getting discolored by mois- ture on glass bottoms. / Cary Grant always appeared well varnished in his screen persona./ A fisherman always varnishes his tales about the big one that got away. /[-ed -ing] >> varnish  (VAHR nish) n. 1. a resinous preparation used to give wood a glossy protective finish; 2. the hard, glossy surface produced; 3. a glossy or polished manner —vt. 1. to cover with varnish; 2. to make superficially attractive; 3. to pol- ish up; embellish

The vehement winds brought about by Hurricane Charley laid waste to parts of Florida’s Gulf Coast. / Bess was vehement in denying any knowledge of the incident in question. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. fervent] >> vehement  (VEE him int) adj. 1. violent; impetuous; moving with considerable force; 2. characterized by strong feeling or passion; impassioned; fervent

The judge did not appear to be at all venal and this was backed up when Don’s under-the-table offer landed Don in jail. / The mayor and the council struck a venal bargain on the award of the contract. /[-ly adv.] >> venal  (VEE nil) adj. 1. readily bribable or corruptible; 2. characterized by bribery or corruption

It is customary to veneer a piece of wooden furniture with a thin layer of finer wood. / Kitchen counters frequently are veneered with plastic for appearance and washability. / Mahogany and oak veneers are both popular in furniture manufacturing. / Francine has a veneer of culture despite her lack of formal education. >> veneer  (ven EAR) vt. 1. to cover with a thin layer of more costly material; 2. to cause to have a superficially attractive appearance —n. 1. a thin layer of wood or other material glued as the outer layer over a base material to give an attractive appearance; 2. a superficial appearance of something positive

Any Bugatti automobile that has survived to this day can certainly be referred to as venerable./ The dowager empress of China who reigned during the so-called Boxer Rebellion was a venerable woman. /[venerably adv.] >> venerable  (VEN ir uh bl) adj. 1. deserving of reverence or respect by virtue of age and dignity or position and character; 2. impressive because of age, history, or religious significance

Nowadays teenagers seem to venerate very little with the exception of the pope and Mick Jagger./ It is customary among Americans to venerate our founding fathers and mothers. /[-d venerating] >> venerate  (VEN ir ayt) vt. to revere; to regard with great respect; to view as venerable

The professor’s verbosity made it difficult for some of his students to decide what was important and what was not. / Verbosity has been a trait of many politicians but they wait until after they’re elected to exhibit it. /[Syn. wordiness] >> verbosity  (ver BAHS i tee) n. wordiness; long-windedness; having an excess of words

For an alibi to be any good it must be verifiable./ While Jack Benny’s age was clearly verifiable (he was born in 1894 and died in 1974) he claimed to have been 39 for 41 years. /[verifiably adv.] >> verifiable  (VER i FY i bl) adj. capable of being proven true; ascertainible

The best cubic zirconiums have a verisimilitude that would fool all but an experienced gem expert into thinking they were diamonds./ Often a verisimilitude is a truth but if something appears to be too good to be true then it probably is. /[Syn. truth] >> verisimilitude  (ver i si MIL i tood) n. 1. the appearance of being true or real; 2. something having the appearance of being true or real

Karen had a veritable treasure trove of World’s Fair memorabilia in her attic and basement. / Victor prepared a veritable smorgasbord of meats and cheeses for his guests. /[veritably adv.] [Syn. virtual] >> veritable  (VER i ti bul) adj. in effect or practically, although not actually

A skeptic does not believe anything he hears unless he can confirm its verity./ It is a verity that men and women are different. /[Syn. truth] >> verity  (VER i tee) n. 1. conforming to the truth or fact; reality; 2. a principle or belief; a reality

The human appendix is a vestige thought to be from the time when our main source of protein was insects./ A con man would never succeed in conning his mark unless the story he told had some vestige of truth./ Apes and humans have vestiges of tails suggesting that some earlier ances- tors probably were tailed. /[vestigial adj. vestgially adv.] >> vestige  (VES tij) n. 1. remaining trace of something no longer used or that no longer exists; 2. a trace; a bit; 3. an atrophied or rudimentary organ more fully developed in earlier forms of a species

Ian questioned everything he was asked to do just to vex his parents./ Melissa found it vexing that two-year-old Sebastian listened carefully to what she wanted him to do smiled at her and then did whatever he wanted./ Marge continued to be vexed by her rheumatism. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. annoy] >> vex  (VEKS) vt. 1 to disturb, annoy, irritate, especially in a petty or nagging way; 2. to distress, afflict, or plague

The deputy sheriff acts with the vicarious powers of the sheriff when he forms a posse./ When Jill told Fran of her exciting ride down the rapids of the Colorado River Fran experienced a vicarious thrill. /[-ly adv.] >> vicarious  (vy KAR ee uhs) adj. 1. taking the place of another as a deputy or a stand-in; substituting for another; 2. imagining participation in another’s activity

Lord Nelson’s victory at Trafalgar is commemorated by a statue in London’s square of the same name./ L’Arc de Triomphe in Paris has seen victories celebrated by armies of several countries./ Some athletes go to the Olympics to compete while others go seeking victory. /[victories pl.] [Syn. conquest triumph] >> victory  (VIK ter ee) n. 1. a final and complete triumph in battle; 2. a specific military battle that ended in triumph for your side; 3. success in any contest requir- ing the overcoming of obstacles

When you are outside your home with a child you must be vigilant at all times./ Cats appear to be vigilant even when they’re asleep. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. watchful] >> vigilant  (VIJ il int) adj. staying watchful and alert for danger

A defense attorney’s job is to defend his client with vigor./ Rosebushes appear to die in the winter in northern climates but with the first sign of spring they exhibit new vigor./ It takes the vigor of multiple rocket engines to boost a satellite into orbit. /[-ous adj. -ously adv.] >> vigor  (VIG oer) n. 1. active force or strength; 2. active or healthy growth; 3. intensity; force; energy

The judge tried not to be vindictive in deciding the felon’s sentence. / Because Sean had suffered defeat at the hands of his opponent once before he vowed to be vindictive in the rematch. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. vengeful] >> vindictive  (vin DIK tiv) adj. 1. seeking revenge; in the spirit of revenge; 2. acting to seek vengeance

Gang violence has become all too common in certain areas of certain cities./ Battery is an act of violence of one person on another./ Tornadoes often cause violence to people who are caught out in them. >> violence  (VY uh lins) n. 1. physical force that causes damage, destruction, and personal injury; 2. intense force and energy, such as that of a tropical storm, earth- quake, tornado, and so on; 3. a violent act or deed

A homicidal maniac has a tendency to be violent./ Video games depicting violent acts are not necessarily harmful to children nor are they necessarily helpful./ When cold fronts meet warm fronts violent weather conditions often develop. /[-ly adv.] >> violent  (VY uh lint) adj. 1. acting with great force so as to injure, damage, or destroy; 2. caused by an act of violence; 3. furious; extreme; intense

Being able to get bleacher seats at Shea Stadium for a weekday afternoon game is a virtual cinch. / When running a memory-hungry computer program virtual memory makes temporary use of disk space when enough real memory is unavailable. / E-Bay provides a department-store experience in virtual shopping. /[-ly adv. -ity n.] >> virtual  (VOER tyoo uhl) adj. 1. being as if, but not actual (for example, virtual reality or a computer’s virtual memory); 2. taking place in cyberspace

We show virtue by the way we live./ Bill won the day by virtue of having four kings./ The virtue of medicine is well known. >> virtue  (VOER choo) n. 1. moral excellence and goodness of heart; 2. meritori- ous in moral quality and rightness of action; 3. effective power or force

Chocolate syrup is a viscid substance. / When Jack picked up the jar and felt the viscid texture on his hand it took a moment for him to figure out that the honey had leaked. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. viscous] >> viscid  (VIS id) adj. 1. having a cohesive, sticky, liquid consistency; viscous; 2. covered by a viscid substance

The viscous quality of motor oil is what causes it to adhere to engine parts and protect them against wear./ How viscous a liquid can be expressed scientifically as its coefficient of vis- cosity with water’s coefficient being 1. /[viscosity n.] >> viscous  (VIS kis) adj. 1. having the consistency of a sticky, coherent fluid; viscid; 2. having viscosity

The question is not how old one is but how much vitality one has./ I’ve seen 80-year-olds with the vitality of 20-somethings and vice versa./ A chocolate bar can give one some instant vitality./ The vitality of NATO has been open to question since the end of the Cold War. >> vitality  (vy TAL i tee) adj. 1. the power to live, or to go on living; 2. life force; 3. mental or physical energy; 4. the power of an institution to flourish

Using any cheese other than parmigiano reggiano vitiates the authenticity of an Alfredo sauce./ The Roman Empire’s morality vitiated long before the empire crumbled./ Failure to abide by the limits of the contract will serve to vitiate it. /[-d vitiating] [Syn. weaken] >> vitiate  (VISH ee ayt) vt. 1. to make impure; to spoil; to corrupt; 2. to pervert; weaken morally; 3. to invalidate a contract

Walter was vituperative in his description of his working conditions and his boss. / When Harold spoke to Maude he was very angry and did so in a vituperative manner. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. scolding] >> vituperative  (vi TOO per uh tiv) adj. berating; speaking abusively to or about

The mayor gave vocalization to his concern about balancing the budget./ The vocalizations of the tenor at last night’s performance were without equal in Mary’s experience. >> vocalization  (VOH kil i ZAY shin) n. an utterance; something sung or spoken; an articulation

Eric’s vocation as a beachcomber was sealed from the moment his mother bought him the comb./ Everyone should have some vocation or a railroad car full of money. >> vocation  (voh KAY shin) n. 1. a calling to enter a certain career; 2. any career, profession, or trade

The crow cawed vociferously as if complaining about the screen separating it from the cherry pie./ The crowd vociferously yelled at the center fielder to throw the ball to home plate. /[vociferous adj. vociferousness n.] [Syn. clamorously stridently boisterously] >> vociferously  (voh SIF oer is lee) adv. 1. loudly making one’s feelings known; 2. characteristically making a fuss to be sure of being heard

Certain computer terms like RAM and ROM have found their way into vulgar usage./ Vulgar Latin was quite different from the Latin used in literature./ Richard’s wearing jeans to the opera last Thursday was rather vulgar in Karen’s opinion. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. coarse common] >> vulgar  (VUHL goer) adj. 1. common; popular with the great majority of people; 2. in the vernacular; 3. characterized by lack of culture or refinement; boorish

The sun tried to ward off the winter cold./ The guard was ward over the second floor./ The class was the ward of the school while in the building./ By order of the court Burt Ward was made Bruce Wayne’s ward./ The hospital had a maternity ward and a prison ward which some would say are one and the same./ The congressman was elected to represent the third ward. /[-ed -ing] >> ward  (WAWRD) vt. to fend off; parry; push aside or away —n. 1. the act of guarding; 2. the state of being under guard; 3. a child or other person placed under the guardianship of another or of a court; 4. each of the parts or divisions of a hospital or a jail; 5. an administrative district of a city or town

Whereas you already have the umbrella why don’t you open it?/ You have the steering wheel whereas I have the car key./ Whereas tomorrow is your birthday let’s party today. >> whereas  (wair AZ) conj. 1. it being the case that; because; 2. but, on the other hand; 3. in as much as

Artist Peter Max is known for his whimsical cartoons./ Teresa took a whimsical notion to jump into the Pacific Ocean./ We’d love to tell you what the bus schedule is but as far as we can tell it’s purely whimsical depending on the driver’s inclination. /[-ly adv.] >> whimsical  (WIM zi kil) adj. 1. characterized by capriciousness; 2. oddly extraor- dinary; fanciful; freakish; 3. unpredictable; subject to change

The blacksmith wields his hammer very deftly./ The amount of power the president of the United States wields has increased since the drafting of the Constitution. /[-ed -ing] [Syn. handle] >> wield  (WEELD) vt. 1 to handle and use (a weapon or tool, with some skill being implied); 2. to exercise (power, influence, and so on)

Foxes and cougars can thrive only in the wilderness while deer seem to be better able to coexist with people./ The wilderness of the Brazilian rain forest is rapidly disappearing./ Laura hadn’t combed or cut her hair in two years so when she went to the stylist he was greeted with a tangled wilderness of hair. /[Syn. waste] >> wilderness  (WIL doer nis) n. 1. an uninhabited (by humans), uncultivated region; wild; waste; 2. any open, barren, or empty area, including the ocean; 3. a confused, tangled mass

Lloyd was wistful for the days when he didn’t have to work for a living. / Liza had wistful feelings for her childhood home in Iowa. /[-ly adv.] [Syn. yearning] >> wistful  (WIST ful) adj. expressing or showing vague yearnings; longing thoughtfully

Norm was a xenophobe and kept a high fence around his house to protect him from strangers. / Xenophobes do not normally excel at parties. /[xenophobia n. xenophobic adj. xenophobically adv.] >> xenophobe  (ZEN uh FOHB) n. one who is fearful of strangers and/or foreigners

Getting elected president must be the zenith of any politician’s career. / When it comes to mountains the zenith of Everest is the tallest in the world. /[Syn. summit] >> zenith  (ZEE nith) n. 1. the point in the sky that is directly overhead; 2. the highest point; peak